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After a 2025 season filled with missed opportunities, Youngstown State enters its conference opener with unfinished business and the chance to correct critical mistakes. When YSU took on SDSU last season, the Penguins jumped out to a 17-7 lead and carried the momentum into halftime.
Coming out of halftime, the Jackrabbits leaned on their ground game to regain control, putting together three straight touchdown drives while holding the YSU offense scoreless in the third quarter. SDSU ultimately won 35-30, and the Penguins failed to capitalize on their fast start.
The inability to finish games and limit critical mistakes continued to haunt YSU, culminating in a crushing FCS playoff loss to Yale after the Penguins led 42-14 with 7:37 remaining in the third quarter.
With a top-10 clash awaiting them on the road, YSU enters conference play with what could be its most complete team of the Doug Phillips era.
YSU’s offense has looked dangerous to start the season, scoring 43 and 70 points in its two games against NEC competition. Against SEC foe Kentucky, the Penguins moved the ball well but failed to turn sustained drives into touchdowns, resulting in just 13 points.
Beau Brungard continues to be the centerpiece of the YSU offense and has become an even sharper passer with a talented group of wide receivers around him. Grand Valley State transfer Lynn Wyche-El has emerged as Brungard’s go-to target in the slot, hauling in 18 passes for 229 yards and four touchdowns.
YSU also has plenty of depth at wide receiver, with Jeremiah Sanders, Dorian Williams, Bryan Hunt, and Lorenzo Jenkins creating a difficult matchup for the SDSU defense. The Jacks have a lot of length along the defensive line, but YSU’s experienced offensive line should give Brungard time to operate in the pocket.
If Brungard is given time to throw, SDSU could struggle to match up with YSU’s size on the perimeter. Against an offense that spreads the ball around and can vary its tempo, the Jacks’ back seven will need to remain disciplined throughout the game.
The YSU offense should score points, but can the defense rise to the occasion?
If YSU is to win this game, its defense will need to deliver a big-time performance and complement the offense. SDSU has one of the nation’s better rushing attacks, averaging 265.3 yards per game and 6.1 yards per carry.
Josiah Johnson leads the team with 40 carries and has emerged as the lead tailback behind a big, physical offensive line. If the Penguins want to turn this into a heavyweight clash, their front seven must be disciplined against the run and find ways to pressure Chase Mason on third down.
YSU returns a strong nucleus up front but will need to perform well in a new defensive scheme.
Red-zone defense is another key, as the Jacks have converted just 6-of-15 trips inside the 20 into touchdowns. YSU had red zone stops against Mercyhurst and Duquesne but will need to stand firm against the Jackrabbits.
YSU put together a dominant effort against Duquesne last week, with its offense and special teams leading the way. If the Penguin defense can gel this weekend and make key stops, YSU will have a chance to leave Brookings with a massive conference victory.
