ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- The Pittsburg State University football team capitalized on a stifling defensive performance as the Gorillas scored a 20-7 road win over MIAA rival Missouri Western State University Saturday (Nov. 7) at Spratt Memorial Stadium.

The Gorillas (1-1) jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the contest and did not allow any offensive points scored by the Griffons (0-2).

Quarterback Mak Sexton tossed a 20-yard touchdown pass to running back Drew Winn on the opening drive of the game and he added a 17-yard scoring toss to wide receiver Jalen Martin early in the third quarter. Placekicker Jaden Snyder added field goals of 41 and 23 yards to compete the Gorillas scoring.

The Pitt State defense limited MWSU to 180 yards of total offense and just 43 net rushing yards. The Gorillas recorded a pair of drive stopping interceptions and also partially blocked a punt that played a key role in field possession.

Sexton finished the game 18 of 32 passing for 141 yards. Winn carried the ball 13 times for a game high 79 yards, while running back Tyler Adkins added 23 carries for 50 yards. Martin had a team-leading seven receptions for 66 yards.

Linebacker Morgan Selemaea made a team-leading seven tackles and added a blocked punt. Safety Markel Roby and linebacker Jack Barkley registered interceptions. Linebacker Alex Gaskill made three stops, including two tackles-for-loss.

The Gorillas will travel to Nacogdoches, Texas, next Saturday (Nov. 14) to face FCS member Stephen F. Austin State University.