It didn't take long for MSU to get rolling, as R.J. Shelton took a reverse sweep 32 yards on the first play from scrimmage. L.J. Scott followed with two tackle-shedding rumbles that picked up another 30 yards. Just like that, in a mere seven play, three minute and 41 second drive, Scott waltzed into the end zone from one yard out to put MSU on the board. MSU closed out the first half leading Furman 14-3
MSU's defense had to respond to the impressive offensive drive before them, and that's exactly what they did. Junior defensive tackle Malik McDowell and company came out feeding off the offense's energy, forcing a false start and fumble on the Paladin's first drive of the game.