BEMIDJI, Minn. — The University of Sioux Falls (3-0) maintained their unbeaten streak with a decisive 56-23 victory over Bemidji State University (0-3) at Chet Anderson Stadium, highlighted by a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to start the game. This game marked a special occasion for Bemidji State as it was both Senior Day and the Lion's Club Game.
The first quarter began with an explosive play as USF's Adonis Hutchinson returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown at 14:47. Bemidji State's defense responded by forcing a turnover late in the quarter when
Tui Vaivai caused a fumble, which was recovered by
Reese Sheldon at Bemidji's 4-yard line. Despite some setbacks, including a false start penalty, Bemidji State showed resilience with
Jayden Washington rushing for 17 yards and
Connor Carver connecting on a 14-yard pass to
Zavery Guerra, highlighting their offensive efforts in the first quarter.
The second quarter began with Sioux Falls maintaining control of the game, as Camden Dean's precise passing led to two touchdowns, including an 11-yard completion to Isaiah Emanuel at 10:36. Bemidji State responded with a promising series when Carver connected on a 42-yard pass to Guerra, setting up a touchdown pass to
Sam Kanne, narrowing the deficit to 21-7 with 4:35 remaining. Despite a productive defensive play by Sheldon, who recorded a sack, USF extended their lead with another late touchdown, closing the half at 28-7.
Bemidji State kicked off the third quarter with a promising drive, but after a series of short gains, they were forced to punt from their own 30-yard line. Sioux Falls capitalized on the field position, executing a drive that culminated in a touchdown pass at 9:48, extending their lead. Bemidji State responded late in the quarter with
Antonio Brown's impressive 59-yard touchdown run at 00:17, closing the quarter with the home team trailing 42-13.
The fourth quarter began with Bemidji State securing possession at their own 44-yard line following a 30-yard punt from Sioux Falls. Quarterback
Zach Romak led a determined drive, featuring a key 14-yard pass to
Drayton Lehman and a pair of significant rushes by Brown, gaining 15 and 12 yards respectively. Despite a series of penalties, including a false start and delay of game,
Connor Mantelli successfully converted a 37-yard field goal at 11:01 to narrow the gap. Later, Bemidji State executed another potent drive, highlighted by
Justin Incaprera's 4-yard rushing touchdown at 6:54, bringing the score to 49-23.
Brown rushed for 98 yards on five carries and scored one touchdown for Bemidji State. Carver completed 7-of-11 passes for 76 yards and one touchdown, adding to the offensive effort. Sheldon contributed defensively with four tackles, one sack, and a fumble recovery. Kanne made a significant impact with a 10-yard touchdown reception.
This game also marked Head Coach
Brent Bolte's 100th game as Head Coach, a milestone in his coaching career. Bemidji State fell to 0-3 overall and 0-2 in conference play. Sioux Falls improved to 3-0 overall and 2-0 in conference play.
Looking ahead, Bemidji State will host Augustana University on September 20 at Chet Anderson Stadium. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. and is available on the NSIC Network and Beaver Radio Network
For more information on the Bemidji State Football program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X (@BSUBeaversFB), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and like them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversFB).
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey membership in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
