HAMMOND, La. -- Bryan Bennett threw for three touchdowns and Southeast Louisiana defeated Sam Houston State 34-21 on Saturday to clinch at least a share of its first Southland Conference title.

The Lions (9-2, 6-0) trailed 21-17 at the half but Bennett threw a 62-yard pass to Xavier Roberson and Marquis Hayes rushed 18 yards for touchdowns in the third quarter. Bennett finished with 268 yards on 17-of-28 passing. Two of his passing TDs went to Marquis Fruge'.

The Bearkats (8-3, 4-2), who have won or shared the past two conference championships, came into the game tied for second. They were riding a three-game winning streak but ran into a Lions team that had won seven straight.

Brian Bell gave the Bearkats the lead in the first half on three touchdown passes but finished with just 135 yards on 9-of-17 passing, including an interception. He rushed for 112 yards on 16 carries.