The Houston Cougars had a chance to make a statement against East Carolina on Saturday afternoon. With the first half now in the books, Houston trails 28-7.

The Cougars' lone touchdown came on the final play of the half. David Piland hit Larry McDuffey along the sideline for a 10-yard strike that cut the deficit to 21 points. Besides this drive though, Houston's offense has really struggled. Piland completed nine of his 19 pass attempts for 104 yards, and the ground game has put up 32 yards on seven carries.

Eastern Carolina has seemingly done everything right so far. Quarterback Shane Carden has picked apart the Cougars' secondary, going 20-of-27 for 215 yards and four touchdown passes. Vintavious Cooper has run the ball well, carrying it 14 times for 70 yards.

The game isn't over yet, but Houston has to know their time to make a comeback is running short. The second half is about to begin in Greenville.