HAYS — Emporia State University quarterback Brent Wilson threw for 301 yards as the Hornets blew past the Fort Hays State Tigers 43-13 on Thursday night at Lewis Field Stadium in a Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association football game to open the season.

Wilson also had a 32-yard touchdown run at the 11:39 mark in the first quarter for Emporia State's first touchdown in building a 17-0 halftime lead.

The Hornets had 34 first downs compared to only nine for the Tigers.

Wilson, who completed 21 of 29 passes, was bolstered by his team's 271 rushing yards, as the Hornets finished with 591 yards in total offense.

— Mack McClure