San Diego, CA — San Diego State shook off an early deficit and turned Saturday night’s game into a runaway victory, scoring 29 consecutive points on its way to a 53-20 win over Portland State.
The Aztecs struggled to find their footing early, falling behind 6-0 after Portland State converted a pair of field goals. Once San Diego State settled in, however, the game quickly shifted in the Aztecs’ favor.
Running back Lucky Sutton powered the offense with three rushing touchdowns, while Jaylon Hawkins provided the game’s biggest special-teams play by taking a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown.
San Diego State’s defense and special teams also played a major role in the victory, with the Aztecs blocking two Portland State punts.
The Aztecs took control in the second quarter.
Quarterback Jayden Denegal found Justius Lowe for a 40-yard touchdown midway through the period, giving San Diego State its first lead. Sutton followed with a 13-yard scoring run, helping the Aztecs build a 29-6 halftime advantage.
Portland State briefly showed signs of life after halftime, scoring on its opening possession of the third quarter.
Hawkins immediately answered.
The 100-yard kickoff return marked San Diego State’s first kickoff-return touchdown since Jordan Byrd scored against San Jose State on Nov. 12, 2022.
Sutton continued to make history of his own.
He became the first San Diego State player to rush for three touchdowns in a game since Juwan Washington accomplished the feat against Sacramento State on Sept. 8, 2018.
Sutton finished with 58 yards on 18 carries, while Denegal provided an efficient performance through the air. The quarterback completed 12 of 17 passes for 137 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception.
Portland State quarterback Gabe Downing faced a difficult night against the Aztecs’ defense. He completed 31 of 52 passes for 280 yards and a touchdown but was intercepted twice.
Receiver Terence Loville was one of the bright spots for the Vikings, catching 10 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown.
San Diego State’s combination of offensive production, defensive pressure and special-teams execution ultimately proved too much for Portland State, allowing the Aztecs to open their season with a convincing victory.
What’s Next:
Portland State: The Vikings return home next Saturday to face North Dakota.
San Diego State: The Aztecs hit the road next Saturday for a matchup against UCLA.
