After a slow start, the Houston Cougars exploded for 35 points in the second quarter and take a 35-7 lead over Tulane into halftime. Houston running back Charles Sims had a huge first half piling up 199 yards on just seven carries with two touchdowns.
The Cougars struck first marching 89 yards in just 1:07 as Bryce Beall's 11 yard touchdown run made the score 7-0. Patrick Edwards extended the score with a 70 yard punt return for a touchdown on Houston's next possession to make the score 14-0.
Tulane got on the board with a 80 yard drive of its own that was capped off by Orleans Darkwa's three yard touchdown run. The Cougars would come right back with a 52 yard rushing score from Charles Sims and a Case Keenum touchdown pass to Patrick Edwards. Cairo Santos kicked a 42 yard field goal for the Green Wave late in the first half to make the score 28-10. Sims then ripped off a 72 yard run with just 31 seconds remaining to give the Cougars a 35-10 lead.
Case Keenum finished the first half 16 of 20 for 158 yards and a touchdown. Sims also caught five passes for 45 yards in the first half. Orleans Darkwa has 94 yards on 15 carries for Tulane.
For more on Houston, Tulane and everything college football, check out SB Nation's college football news hub.