Why did Missouri State onside kick to start second half vs Marshall?

SPRINGFIELD — In Casey Woods' first three games in charge of Missouri State, he has been very aggressive. With the team's up-tempo offense coupled with trick plays, he has put opposing teams on their heels.

In Missouri State's 30-24 loss to Marshall Saturday, Sept. 19, Woods elected for an ultra-aggressive approach to start the second half.

Marshall was set to receive the second-half kickoff. Missouri State trotted out its kick team. But the Bears tried for a surprise onside kick.

The surprise play was unsuccessful, and the Bears were also offside.

See our best photos from Missouri State football vs Marshall in Week 3

Right before halftime, Missouri State was pushing for a touchdown. The Bears failed in the red zone and opted for a field goal. The kick was blocked and Marshall remained ahead 17-10 into halftime.

"When we got first-and-goal, it was about to be 17-17. I knew I wanted to steal a possession," Woods said. "We had the look, but we didn't execute the kick, which is the risk that you take."

During halftime, Woods spoke to his defense about going for the onside kick and the possible ramifications. The defense was fully behind Woods' decision.

"It was a hard position that we put them (the defense) in," Woods said. "It was something that we wanted to be aggressive about particularly when we got to that situation there at the end of the half."

With a short field, Marshall used four plays to score a touchdown, giving them a 24-10 advantage. This was also Marshall's only touchdown in the second half. The Bears battled back, but Missouri State's comeback fell just short.

Liam Keating covers high school sports and Missouri State athletics for The Springfield News-Leader. Send stats or information to him at Lkeating@usatodayco.com