There was plenty of scoring in the first half as the first three drives resulted in scores. SMU opened the scoring with a long 10 play drive that resulted in a Josh Williams field goal. Houston then countered this with a Kyle Postma 17 yard passing touchdown to D’Eriq King. SMU continued the scoring on a 12 play, 75 yard drive that resulted in a Trey Quinn receiving touchdown. After this moment, the momentum went to Houston. Josh Williams missed the ensuing PAT, making it a 9-7 game.
Houston punted on their next possession, and SMU put together another good drive, but only put up three points.