Charlotte began the game with a run-heavy first drive, capped off by a 23 yard pass by Chris Reynolds to wide receiver Grant Dubose. However, the Niners were not able to keep their momentum from the opening drive going, sputtering through the rest of the half.
The same could not be said for UTEP. The Miners immediately answered back with a drive of their own, in which they converted two fourth down plays on their way to score a 17 yard touchdown from Gavin Hardison to Tyrin Smith.
UTEP led in time of possession (18:17 to 11:43), rushing the ball 24 times for 142 yards.