The Tulsa Golden Hurricane (0-1) did not make landfall during Friday’s game against Michigan State University (1-0), losing 7 to 28.
Things got off to a rough start for Tulsa barely 45 seconds into the first half. The Golden Hurricane racked up two penalties—defensive holding and a personal foul—that added 25 yards to 16 already gained by Brian Lewerke. Michigan State followed up with a touchdown, 15-yard dash made Connor Heyward made by the skin of his teeth.
Tulsa’s defense hung tough throughout the game. This was a good thing, especially in light of two fumbles that put them even further into the hole. Nor did three turnovers in the first half help the Golden Hurricane’s cause. By the end of the first half the score was 7 to 25, Michigan State leading.
Yet despite Tulsa’s gaffes—including a botched snap that led to a safety—the Spartan offense wasn’t able to capitalize on them. Michigan State on the attack was tepid, sputtering, a beat behind the music. Spartan fans grumbled.
Michigan State’s defense, however, were bullet ants, swarming over Tulsa usually before Tulsa realized what was happening.
The Golden Hurricane averaged 200.5 yards per game this season. On Friday they were down by 73 yards. You read that correctly. This breaks a previous 69-year-old record held by Michigan State (-63 yards against Pittsburgh in 1950). Tulsa quarterback Zach Smith seemed not so much part of the Hurricane as trapped within one, being sacked six times by Spartan defense.
Matt Coghlin kicked a 40-yard field goal to bring the final score 7-28, Spartans leading. Despite winning, Michigan State made only one offensive touchdown during the game.
Michigan State plays against Western Michigan on 9/7.