Hawaii got off to a slow start in their first bowl game since 2010 when Middle Tennessee State State jumped out to a 14-0 lead. I’Tavius Mathers scored on 20 yard touchdown run and Brent Stockstill found Richie James for a 51 yard touchdown.
The Warriors responded with some help from their defense after Ikem Okeke forced a fumble that was recovered by Jahlani Tavai and returned to MTSU 18 yardline. The next play Dru Brown found Metuisela ‘Unga in the endzone for an 18 yard touchdown.
The Hawaii defense came up big again when Jalen Rogers picked off Stockstill at the MTSU 45 yard line.