Middle Tennessee State defeats Murray State in weather-shortened season opener

Middle Tennessee State beat Murray State 38-14 in their 2026 season opener on Sept. 5. The game at Floyd Stadium faced nearly five hours of weather delays before officials called the contest with 11:01 remaining in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Roman Gagliano passed for 200 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Wide receiver Cam Lacy recorded 118 receiving yards and a touchdown on eight catches, and safety Kalen Woods scored on a 34-yard fumble return. The victory marked the first time head coach Derek Mason has won a season-opening game since joining the program. Middle Tennessee State now prepares for a road matchup against Marshall scheduled for Sept. 12.

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