Running QB, penalties give PSU the lead at halftime.

Defensive miscues and penalties on the defensive side of the ball have been the tale of the tape thus far for the Beavers. Portland State holds a 14-13 lead at halftime, being led by backup quarterback Paris Penn, who has rushed for 102 yards on five attempts, including a 58-yard run early in the second quarter to give the Vikings a 7-6 lead.

Two big penalties (roughing the passer, late hit out of bounds) gave Portland State the ability to prolong another scoring drive later in the quarter, one that again gave them the lead at the score it is here at halftime.

Oregon State, offensively, have had a solid game thus far, with Sean Mannion completing 72% of his passes for 197 yards and running back Storm Woods taking five rushes for 66 yards. The points will come if the offense is given the chance to attack, but the defense cannot give up the penalties they gave up in the first half.

The defensive line and linebacking core need to better read the quarterback counter that has allowed Penn to lead the Vikings to two touchdown drives. Watch for someone like Obum Gwacham to make a big impact for the defensive unit in the second half.