Cincinnati’s defense forced six turnovers and returned three for touchdowns - all in the first half - as the host Bearcats walloped Akron 59-14 on Saturday.

Maalik Bomar returned a fumble for a touchdown, and Dominique Battle and Camerron Cheatham each returned interceptions for scores as the Bearcats built a 49-0 halftime lead.

Cincinnati (2-1) was among the worst teams in the country in turnover differential in 2010, but is one of the best this season. The Bearcats have forced 13 turnovers while the offense has turned it over only once.

Zach Collaros completed 10-of-16 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown, and also had a rushing score for Cincinnati, which improved to 4-2 all-time against the Zips. In three previous home meetings, the Bearcats won by a combined nine points, including 20-14 in 2006.

Cincinnati scored on four of its first six offensive possessions before giving many of its starters a rest in the second half, including Collaros.

The Zips (0-3) have been outscored 142-17 this season, with their only previous points coming in last week’s 41-3 loss to Temple.

Akron outgained Cincinnati 349-342, but most of its yardage came in mop-up duty late in the second half.

Zips quarterback Clayton Moore finished 16-of-30 for 213 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

Akron allowed 40 or more points for the sixth time in its last 13 games.