Ariy-El Boynton

The Jacks lost the second game of the season 24-17 on Sept. 8 against the Youngstown State Penguins.

SDSU called on starting quarterback Ryan Berry to step up and make plays in the air while facing football sub-conference powerhouse without the services of kick returner/running back Trevor Hohn, who suffered a season ending injury in the season opener.

For the first 29 minutes, Youngstown State used a healthy dose of quarterback Tom Zetts, skill position players and a strong defense as the Penguins went ahead 17-0 scoring touchdowns on a blocked punt, and a Jabari Scott touchdown reception.

With the first half almost over and the Penguins deep in Jackrabbit territory, SDSU’s safety Andrew Hoogeveen stopped the bleeding and stepped in front of a Zetts’ pass, and returned the ball to the 40-yard line.

Berry, sensing the chance to score, completed passes to Paul Aanonson and Kyle Minett, propelling the Jacks to the one-yard line with 21 seconds left. From the shotgun formation, Berry hit senior running back Cory Koenig, who made a great leaping catch to make the score 17-7, and bottled momentum for the Jacks going into the second half.

Pick up the Sept. 12 copy of The Collegian to get the rest of the play-by-play.