Minnesota is heading to halftime with a 15-6 lead in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl, and running back Ky Thomas is a big part of that performance.

During one drive late in the second quarter, Thomas took over with carries on 3 of 4 plays. On the second play of the drive, Thomas took a little pitch from QB Tanner Morgan, let his blockers set up and gashed West Virginia’s defense for a 50 yard gain.

Thomas headed to the sideline for a quick breather on 1st-and-goal but was back in on the very next play. He punched in a 5-yard touchdown to make it 15-6, Minnesota:

Thomas recorded 3 carries for 57 yards and a touchdown on that drive alone. Heading into the break, Thomas leads all players with 87 yards rushing.

Both of Minnesota’s touchdowns came on the ground in that first half. The first of those came from offensive lineman Daniel Faalele in a Piesman moment for the big senior.