CEDAR FALLS — The University of Northern Iowa defense forced four turnovers in the Panthers’ 17-3 win over San Diego in the first round of the FCS playoffs.

UNI opened the game with a 34-yard interception return for a touchdown on San Diego’s first drive. Following a UNI field goal that extended the Panther lead to 10-3, Christian Jegan intercepted a pass on the San Diego seven-yard line. On the next play Trevor Allen scored to give UNI the 17-3 lead.

In total, the UNI defense had three interceptions, a force fumble, nine tackles for loss, and three sacks.

Quarterback Will McElvain was 13-for-27 for 186 while rushing for 34 yards on nine carries.

UNI advances to the second round of the FCS Playoffs and will face South Dakota State. This will be the second meeting between the two teams with the Jackrabbits winning 38-7.

UNI will go on the road to Brookings, S.D., for Saturday’s 1 p.m. game.

NCAA Football Championship Subdivision Playoffs

First Round

Saturday, Nov. 30

Monmouth (NJ) 44, Holy Cross 27

Albany (NY) 42, Central Connecticut St. 14

Illinois St. 24, Southeast Missouri St. 6

Northern Iowa 17, San Diego 3

Austin Peay 42, Furman 6

Kennesaw St. 28, Wofford 21

Nicholls 24, North Dakota 6

Southeastern Louisiana 45, Villanova 44

Second Round

Saturday, Dec. 7

Monmouth (NJ) (11-2) at James Madison (11-1), Noon

Northern Iowa (9-4) at South Dakota St. (8-4), 1 p.m.

Kennesaw St. (11-2) at Weber St. (9-3), 2 p.m.

Albany (NY) (9-4) at Montana St. (9-3), 2 p.m.

Southeastern Louisiana (8-4) at Montana (9-3), 2 p.m.

Illinois St. (9-4) at Central Arkansas (9-3), 2 p.m.

Nicholls (9-4) at North Dakota St. (12-0), 2:30 p.m.

Austin Peay (10-3) at Sacramento St. (9-3), 8 p.m.