BEMIDJI, Minn. -- Four consecutive scoring drives set the Bemidji State University football program up for a season-opening 38-24 win over Upper Iowa University Thursday night at Chet Anderson Stadium. The Beavers nabbed their first season-opening win since 2013 in a game that featured over 1,000 yards of offense between both teams.

Bemidji State showed off its flashy offense early, thanks to a game-opening three-and-out forced by the "Gang Green" defense, with four plays of 20+ yards during its first four possessions. Running back Gena Adams took two receptions in for touchdowns on the second and third drives of the night. Adams' second reception finished as a 53 yard catch up the sideline to give the Beavers a 16-3 lead. He finished with four catches for 94 yards and two touchdowns, and added seven rushes for 68 yards.

Quarterback Jordan Hein helped extend the Beavers' lead to 30-10 heading into halftime with his second rush of 40+ yards. He began his night with a 52-yard scamper, part of a seven play, 68 yard drive that finished with a touchdown by running back Tahi Nomane.

Preseason All-American corner back Gunner Olszewski backed up his accolades while helping the offense jump out of an early second-half lull. He led the team with 17 tackles during the game and recorded a fumble recovery and interception in the fourth quarter. On the ensuing offensive play, wide receiver Brad Birchfield continued the team's speedy output as he took a reverse handoff 65 yards for a touchdown with 7:22 to go in the game.

Bemidji State travels to No. 7 Minnesota State University, Mankato Sept. 10 for its first game against a ranked opponent since 2014. The Mavericks began their season with a 35-7 win at Minot State University Thursday night.

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