Missouri State history was made on Wednesday, as it overcame Florida International 28-21 in the first home victory over an FBS opponent. Jacob Clark, the Bears quarterback, had the most passing yards, two touchdowns, and 163, as well as Shomari Lawrence, who had 104, two of which were against his former team.
The win gave a boost to Missouri State to 5-3 in total and 3-1 in Conference USA, and left FIU at 3-5 (1-3).
Bears Make It Count at Home
The first half was a close game. Missouri State got the first blow with a short run TD by Lawrence, however, FIU answered before the first quarter was over. The second quarter was also of the same order, Lawrence gained release to score 41 yards, only to have the Panthers even up the game just before the halftime.
However, the second half was the preserve of the Bears. Jacob Clark and Jmariyae Robinson were hooked 2 times with 8-yard passes to touch down, and extend the lead to 28-14 with little more than eight minutes to go. FIU reduced the deficit to one point as it had less than four minutes, but Jacob Clark scored a critical 8-yard scramble on third-and-6 to allow Missouri State to run out the clock and lock up the victory.
Robinson finalized having six receptions and 47 yards with two touchdowns, and Lawrence made the feats of the FIU defense run all night.
Jacob Clark Sets School Record
Jacob Clark had a win that was beyond the score board. The 48th of his career a 3rd quarter TD pass to Robinson, broke the Missouri State record of Cody Kirby. It was a learning experience to the seventh-year senior who has remained a stable hand under the center.
Special and Defense teams rise to the occasion
The Missouri State defense kept its excellent streak with its seventh opponent being restrained to less than 30 points. Bears were not afraid to force two crucial turnovers in the first quarter, one of which was a fumble recovery (Ahmad Poole) that put the offense on short fields.
The special teams of the Bears also experienced some moments of weaknesses such as giving away a fake punt as well as a blocked punt but the defense was imperturbable and denied FIU both times.
The victory also made Missouri State 6-0 during October games in the last two seasons. The Bears are starting to believe in themselves and following their recent win, they appear just like a team that is willing to compete at the top of the Conference USA.
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