The Southern Utah University Thunderbirds suffered a tough loss to California Polytechnic University during SUU’s 2019 homecoming game the last Saturday of September. The final score was 24-21 in favor of Cal Poly.
The T-birds offense combined to put up over 350 yards but a tough break on a missed PAT and a missed field goal allowed Cal Poly to finish the game ahead.
Quarterback Chris Helbig completed 19 of 34 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns. Helbig also contributed 43 yards on the ground.
The T-bird defense made solid stops, including forcing three fumbles from Cal Poly. They also held the Mustangs to just 55 passing yards.
Cal Poly’s rushing game was the kryptonyte for the T-Birds tonight. The Mustangs put up 278 rushing yards on over 72 carries.
Injuries on the defensive side of the ball coupled with 76 yards of penalties against the T-Birds slowed the steam of the offense.
Saturday’s loss drops SUU to 1-4 on the season and 0-1 in conference play.
Things are looking up for the T-Birds with multiple players returning from injuries for this coming week’s game in Portland, Ore. against Portland State.
The T-Birds next home game will be on Saturday, Oct. 12against rivals Weber State.
Story by: Casey Torgersen
caseytorgerson@gmail.com
Photo by: Mitchell Quartz
