TIFFIN -- Despite a career day for receiver Brandon Reed and two interceptions by Joseph Norris III, the Heidelberg University football team fell to No. 4 Mount Union, 49-14.  The Purple Raiders scored twice late in the second quarter to take control of the game.  

Reed had 10 receptions for 134 yards and a touchdown, setting new career highs for catches and yards.  He added a personal-best six kickoff returns for a total of 106 yards.  

Heidelberg fell to 5-2 overall, 4-2 in the Ohio Athletic Conference.  

Despite allowing 500 yards passing, the Berg defense picked off MTU quarterback Braxton Plunk three times.  Parker Smith juggled a deflected ball, then snared it to thwart a promising Purple Raiders drive in the second quarter.  The interceptions by Norris came on back-to-back drives to start the third quarter.  On the opening drive, he stepped in front of Wayne Ruby for the interception. On the next drive, he made a sensational leaping grab with one hand.  

After punting on the opening possession, Heidelberg forced a fumble deep in the Mount Union end.  On the next play, Sims hit Reed on a slant for a 19-yard touchdown.  Branden Steckel's extra point gave HU a 7-0 lead.  

Mount Union scored on their next two drives, taking a 14-7 lead through the opening quarter.  On the first play of the second stanza, Sims hit Maceo Matthews Jr. in stride on a post for a 40-yard bomb.  Steckel tied the game with a PAT.  

The Purple Raiders would score 35 unanswered points to cruise to their 33rd straight win over Heidelberg.  

Norris's two-pick day was HU's first since Elijah Brechbill had two in a 17-13 loss against John Carroll in 2019.  

Sims was 18-of-38 for 271 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Montavious Yearby finished with 102 yards of total offense -- 44 on the ground, 58 in the air.

Heidelberg will visit Muskingum (4-3, 3-3) next Saturday.  The game, slated for a 1:30 p.m. kick, will be played at Zanesville High School.