The Washington State Cougars lead the Utah Utes, 33-20, after two quarters of play at Martin Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Cougs used an opening-drive touchdown and consecutive interceptions for scores to grab a 21-0 lead less than 10 minutes in the game. Utah wouldn't go away, however, and came back with two consecutive touchdowns of their own to get right back in it.
Connor Halliday had a superb first half, completing 21 of 34 for 262 yards and 2 touchdowns. The redshirt junior has shown the touch that has eluded him all season in hitting Dom Williams and Kristoff Williams on big gains. Halliday has also improvised when necessary, hitting Marcus Mason for a long gainer and a touchdown.
It has been all-or-nothing for the Cougar defense. Four three-and-outs and two pick-sizes have shared space with three touchdown drives. The last was a short field for Utah, following a WSU drive that ended inside its own 20.
That field position was set up on the previous Utah possession when Leon Brooks muffed a punt in Washington State territory.
Utah quarterback Adam Schulz has been erratic, but came up with big plays in the passing game. He is 9 of 21 for 133 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Running back Kelvin York has 14 carries for 59 yards and two scores.
Damante Horton and Casey Locker had the back-to-back interceptions for touchdowns in the first quarter. Horton jumped a route and took his for 22 yards, the third score of the season for the senior. Locker's came on a tipped pass, and some great blocking helped him take it the distance.
Senior kicker Andrew Furney had two field goals, including a 52-yarder into the wind to end the first half.
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