Showing signs

Southern Arkansas is 3-0 for the first time in almost a decade, thanks in part to a defense that’s found ways to halt drives even if it gives up yards.

The Muleriders, whose last 3-0 start ended with an NCAA Division II playoff appearance in 2003, rank seventh in the 11-team Great American Conference in total defense (359.7 yards per game) but third in scoring defense (19.3 points per game).

They’ve forced six turnovers in the past two games, including four in last week’s 35-34 victory over Southwestern Oklahoma State.

Three turnovers came in the final 6 minutes and they all helped Southern Arkansas (3-0, 2-0) twice come back from 14-point deficits.

“It’s been huge for us,” Coach Bill Keopple said of the turnovers. “People get caught up in how many yards you give up. But the bottom line is: How many points are you giving up?”

Two turnovers led directly to touchdowns Southwestern Oklahoma State, including Tyler Sykora’s 9-yard touchdown pass to Carlos Brown with 5:10 left. The score was set up by sophomore defensive back DeMario Thomas’ fumble recovery at the SAU 35 that he returned to the Southwestern 9.

Sykora found Brown on the next play and Southwestern’s final two possessions ended when Aaron Wilson recovered another Southwestern fumble and Nick Davis intercepted a pass.