Connor Cook completed his first nine passes for 257 yards and 3 TDs for MSU in the first half of the season opener, as the Spartans marched to a 38-0 lead at the half.

Tony Lippett exploded for two touchdown s huge touchdown receptions from Cook, one for 64 yards and the other for 71. Nick Hill added two touchdown runs of his own.

What first was a shaky start for the Spartan defense turned into a big scare for the Spartan offense. After kicking the ball off to start the game, the Gamecocks nearly caught the MSU secondary sleeping.

It took three plays for the Spartan defense to make a statement. After a stop on the kick return just outside the ten-yard line, Jacksonville State completed a 32-yard pass on the first play from scrimmage. Eli Jenkins completed his next pass for more yardage and MSU appeared to be flat-footed defensively.

After that shaky start, the Spartan defense was able to force a punt. Michigan State responded with a quick score as Connor Cook found Tony Lippett for a deep touchdown pass. Cook had to be helped off the field after the play, taking a late low hit to his left knee.

Cook did not suffer any serious injury, as he returned to the field firing on all cylinders. Then

The defense picked up the slack, with interceptions from Kurtis Drummond and Darian Hicks.

It appears to be smooth sailing in the longly anticipated season opener for the Spartans.

Michael Geiger added a 35-yard field goal as time expired in the half.

Bradley Allen is a multimedia reporter for Impact Sports.

Photo: David Defever/Impact Sports