By Kristin Farris
BSU Sports Information
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.