MORGANTOWN — Cincinnati's offense has come back to life after its disappointing performance against Arizona two weeks ago, with the Bearcats taking a 21-14 lead over West Virginia into halftime Saturday afternoon.

Quarterback JC French IV led Cincinnati on a 13-play, 75-yard opening drive, connecting with Joe Gibson for a 4-yard touchdown to give the Bearcats an early 7-0 advantage. It was an encouraging start for an offense that managed just seven points against Arizona.

West Virginia responded early in the second quarter with a 12-yard touchdown run by quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., tying the game at seven.

Cincinnati regained the lead when French connected with Israel Johnson on a 51-yard touchdown pass with 4:55 remaining in the half. The play capped a five-play, 77-yard drive and gave the Bearcats a 14-7 advantage.

The Mountaineers answered again, driving 78 yards in seven plays before Hawkins scored his second rushing touchdown from two yards out, tying the game at 14 with 2:19 remaining.

But Cincinnati wasn't finished.

Cole Tabb took over on the ensuing possession, rushing for 51 yards on three carries, including a 28-yard touchdown run that put the Bearcats back in front, 21-14, with 1:22 remaining.

West Virginia threatened to tie the game again before halftime, but its final drive ended with a missed field goal with approximately 20 seconds remaining.

For Cincinnati, the first half has been a significant improvement over its performance in Tucson. The offensive line has created running lanes, French has connected on several explosive passes, and Tabb has provided a much-needed spark on the ground.

The Bearcats still have work to do defensively, particularly containing Hawkins, who has accounted for both West Virginia touchdowns. But Cincinnati has shown the offensive balance that was missing against Arizona.

The Bearcats will look to build on their seven-point lead in the second half as they try to improve to 5-1 and pick up an important Big 12 road victory.