Titans Optimistic in Traveling to Mississippi State

Another week, another Southeastern Conference journey, another dollar for the Cal State Fullerton football team, which will play Mississippi State today at Starkville, Miss.

Until last week, one might have figured this was merely another lucrative loss for the Titans, who will collect $150,000. But that was before Fullerton’s strong second-half showing in a 38-17 loss to Auburn, a performance that has led the Titans to believe they can to take the money and win, not just run.

“We’re still definite underdogs,” Coach Gene Murphy said. “But if we play like we did in the second half against Auburn, we’re capable of staying in the game with them. We could beat them, but it would take a great effort by us, and some great things would have to go our way.”

The Tigers blew Fullerton away in a 31-3 first half, but the Titans held their own in the second half, outscoring Auburn, 14-7.

Mississippi State lost to Tennessee, 40-7, last Saturday.

Mississippi State Coach Rockey Felker said thoughts his players entertained of an easy victory dissipated when they watched films of Auburn-Fullerton.