Appalachian State received the opening kickoff. The Mountaineers started the game with conservative play-calling, electing to run on each of their first eight plays. Although the up-the-middle runs didn't work on the team's opening drive, Taylor Lamb ran effective speed options to the edges of the field.
Toledo's offense started out strong, at least in the passing game. Logan Woodside completed each of his first three passes, but penalties stalled what started out as a promising possession. On Toledo's second drive, Woodside threw an interception in double coverage to the center of the field and Appalachian State's inside linebacker Anthony Flory returned it for 19 yards, breaking several tackles along the way.