April 24, 2012

SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State announced Tuesday (April 24) the start time for its 2012 football home opener against Murray State on Sept. 15 has been moved to 7 p.m.

The Bears and Racers last met on the gridiron on Oct. 9, 2010 when the squads combined to break an NCAA Division I FCS record with 1,423 combined yards in a 72-59 win by Murray State.  The rematch this September will feature two up-and-coming programs from their respective conferences with the young Bears returning 24 players with starting experience from last season and 36 lettermen in all.

MSU Director of Athletics Kyle Moats says the change in start time for the Sept. 15 game will allow students and fans a rare opportunity to see the Bears play a night game at Plaster Field.

"We are working to enhance the overall gameday experience for our students and our fans and want to begin that process with the home opener," Moats said of the change in game times. "This is a unique community event and a chance for our football program to play a rare night game at Plaster Field."

MSU last played a home night game on Sept. 4, 2008. The Bears were scheduled to play their 2010 home opener on a Thursday night, but the game was postponed until the next afternoon due to lightning and tornado warnings in the area at the time.

The Bears will begin the 2012 campaign on Sept. 1 at Kansas State and will have five home games on slate this fall.  Season ticket information is available right now by calling (417) 836-7678 or visiting the Chevy Pickup Window at JQH Arena during regular office hours.