GEORGETOWN, Texas — Southwestern football surrendered big play after big play to the No. 1-ranked University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) Crusaders in a 54-3 loss in the Pirates' home opener.

UMHB quarterback Kyle King connected with receiver K.J. Miller for a 71-yard touchdown on the Crusaders' second play from scrimmage a little more than 30 seconds into the game. Southwestern quarterback Landry Gilpin was sacked on the Pirates' first offensive play, setting up a three-and-out possession for Southwestern. 

King capitalized with another big passing play, connecting with Brenton Martin for a 37-yard touchdown on the second play of the Crusaders' second drive for the 14-0 lead. 

After both teams exchanged punts, Southwestern put together its lone scoring drive of the evening. Gilpin extended the drive with a 32-yard pass to Ethan Powell on third-and-10 to the UMHB 48. Jaquon Marion, Gilpin, and Gianni Taisague combined for 26 yards on four runs over the next five plays to set up a 39-yard field goal by Wil Herbst. 

The Southwestern defense forced Mary Hardin-Baylor to punt on the ensuing drive, but Gilpin's first pass on the following possession bounced off a defender at the line of scrimmage and was picked off by defensive lineman Josh Patteson and returned 14 yards for the touchdown, giving UMHB a 20-3 lead after missing the extra point. 

Southwestern defensive back Brandon Jennings picked off King at the Southwestern 27 but fumbled the ball on the return, setting up a five-yard King rush for the score and a 26-3 lead after missing the extra point. 

Mary Hardin-Baylor scored twice more before the half for a 40-3 lead, then forced a fumble on Southwestern's opening drive of the second half, setting up another touchdown for the 47-3 lead. The Crusader's final score came on an 84-yard run from backup quarterback Tommy Bowden. 

Southwestern was outgained 569-145 in total yardage, giving up 292 yards through air and 277 yards on the ground. The Crusaders dominated the time of possession, holding the ball for 37 minutes and five seconds. 

The Pirates drop to 1-2 while Mary Hardin-Baylor remains undefeated at 3-0. Southwestern will travel next weekend to face McMurry on Saturday, Sept. 25, at 4:00 p.m.

For more SU Pirate photos, please see Carlos Barron Photography.