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State started the season on the right foot Saturday evening beating the Racers of Murray State 38-6. Conner threw for 240 yards and four touchdowns and Norwood ran for 123 yards on 16 carries, while the defense proved they were as good as advertised by holding the "other MSU" to just six points (a TD and missed PAT). And led by redshirt freshman Keon Humphries, with 5 receptions for 98 yards and 2 touchdowns, the young receiving corps also proved worthy of praise.

The offense was very effective, scoring on five of their first seven possessions (when was the last time that happened?) before calling off the proverbial dogs, while actually resembling the WCO for the first time under Croom. Conner mentioned in post game remarks that he felt more comfortable reading defenses this year and made two adjustments at the line that led to touchdowns.

And while it's difficult to get too excited about pounding a team from D-1AA, the progress from last season appears to be excellent.

Next up: Auburn, Saturday, September 10, 12:30 p.m. ET


The photo, courtesy of J.D. Schlawm of the Jackson Clarion Ledger, is of Coach Croom and players during the pre-game prayer in honor of those affected by Hurricane Katrica.