HAYS, Kan. – Malik Thomas rushed for 115 yards and scored Fort Hays State’s only offensive touchdown on a 61-yard run on their first offensive possession and the Tigers beat Missouri Southern 22-10 in the season opener for both teams Thursday night in front of 4,134 at Lewis Field. The touchdown run capped a 99-yard drive which started after the Lions botched a field goal attempt on their first possession.

Coach Chris Brown Postgame Press Conference

Malik Thomas Postgame Interview

Tyler Bacon Postgame Interview

Game Highlights

Shaquille Cooper added 98 yards on the ground and sophomore quarterback Jacob Mezera completed 15 of 32 passes for 147 in his first career start as the Tigers win their season opener for the second straight year.

Raheeme Dumas returned an interception 25 yards for a score off a deflection of defensive end Wyatt Parker late in the second quarter to put the Tigers up 13-3 at the half.

Brandon Brown connected on field goals of 29 and 34 yards on the Tigers first two possession of the third quarter. He booted another from 36 yards with under five minutes to play to put the game away.

Tyler Bacon had six catches for 71 yards to lead the Tigers air attack.

Missouri Southern quarterback TJ Fleeton threw for 272 yards and a touchdown but also had the one interception.

The Lions outgained the Tigers 394 to 354 yards and ran 92 plays compared to Fort Hays State’s 65.