For a second straight year, Delta State fell short of its ultimate goal: a NCAA Division II national championship.

Pittsburg State punched their ticket to the championship game with a 49-23 victory over the Statesmen on Saturday in Pittsburg, Kan.

The Statesmen (11-3) turned the ball over six times with three fumbles and three interceptions.

Delta State quarterback Micah Davis completed 27-of-58 passes for 365 yards with one touchdown and three picks in his final game. The Statesmen rushed for just 58 yards.

With Pittsburg State leading 14-6 and the Delta State offense struggling, the special teams came through. A punt by Jake Craig was blocked by Melvin Griffin and returned by wide receiver Bill Franks for a touchdown. The extra point cut the Gorilla lead to just one.

Pittsburg State replied as quarterback Zac Dickey found receiver Jon Thomas for a 38-yard touchdown.

But Delta State became its own worst enemy, putting the game out of reach with two costly turnovers.

Dickey hit on two TD passes after Delta State turnovers to put the Gorillas up 35-13 at halftime.