Coming from behind with a furious second half attack, the East Texas State Lions opened their 1947 grid season with a 20-7 victory over the Hardin College Indians in Commerce, September 20.

Rain and mud slowed down rhe Lions' famed passing attack and halted their running game during the first half. A stray pass by the East Texans went into the arms of Indian Tackle Willie Bigham, who galloped for Hardin's lone touchdown in the second period. In the third quarter, trailing 7-0, East Texas got back into the ball game when Bobby "Sheepherder" Wilkinson fired a touchdown pass to End Guy Harrison. Bobby Griffin kicked rhe game-tying point. Following the kickoff after touchdown, End S. R. Scarborough covered a short kick and the Lions were off ro another touchdown. James (Cargo) Batchelor drove over from the Hardin two-yard line. With their offense still in motion, Wilkinson gathered in an Indian punt and scampered 40 yards to paydirt for the final six-pointer. Tom Ramey booted the extra point.