By Kristin Farris
BSU Assistant Director of Athletic Media Relations
BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University Football fell 42-14 to No. 9/13 Augustana
University Saturday afternoon at Chet Anderson Stadium after starting the day on a
21-point deficit after the first quarter.
The first quarter opened with Bemidji State receiving the kickoff, but momentum
quickly shifted as Connor Carver’s fumble led to an Augustana touchdown just 14
seconds into their possession. Despite efforts from Kaleb Miller, who returned a
kickoff for 19 yards and later rushed for 14 yards, Bemidji State’s offense faced
challenges, including a sack and incomplete passes. The defense managed a highlight
when Tyler Sapit executed a crucial sack against Augustana’s Gunnar Hensley, but the
quarter ended with Bemidji State trailing 21-0.
The second quarter began with a determined offensive push by Bemidji St., as Carver
orchestrated an efficient no-huddle drive, completing a crucial 9-yard pass to
Antonio Brown and a key 5-yard rush for a first down. The drive was highlighted by a
strong 23-yard run by Brown, moving the ball into AU territory. However, the Vikings
capitalized on a turnover and scored two touchdowns, despite Bemidji St.’s strategic
timeout at 5:14, ending the quarter with a 35-0 lead.
The third quarter began with a strong defensive effort by Bemidji State, as Ray
Saffold’s quarterback hurry led to a holding penalty that set Augustana back 10
yards early in their drive. Bemidji State’s offense responded with a methodical
91-yard drive, highlighted by Bart McAninch’s first career touchdown pass to Antonio
Brown at 7:04, narrowing the gap. Despite a late touchdown by the Vikings, Bemidji
State’s defense worked hard throughout the quarter, with notable tackles from Tommy
Lujan and Gabe Ward.
The fourth quarter opened with McAninch’s attempts to connect through the air, but
Bemidji State found their stride on the ground. Brown highlighted a critical drive
with an 8-yard rush followed by a 13-yard gain, setting the pace for the quarter.
McAninch later connected with Lucas Peterson on a deep 45-yard pass, leading to
Justin Incaprera’s 3-yard touchdown run at 5:07, and Connor Mantelli’s successful
extra point sealed the quarter’s scoring for Bemidji State.
Drayton Lehman collected 69 receiving yards on six receptions for Bemidji St.,
contributing significantly to the team’s aerial attack. Incaprera found the end zone
with a rushing touchdown on five carries, adding 17 yards on the ground. Quarterback
McAninch connected on 13 of 23 passes, amassing 157 yards and throwing one
touchdown. On defense, A’Mon Walker led the team with six tackles, helping to anchor
the secondary.
Bemidji St. fell to 0-4 overall and 0-3 in conference play following the loss. AU
improved to 4-0 overall and 3-0 in the conference. The Beavers now travel to Minot,
N.D. to take on the Minot State University Beavers in the annual Battle of the
Beavers Sep. 27. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. and is available on the NSIC Network and
with Kevin Reid’s call on the Beaver Radio Network. The team is back home for
homecoming on Oct. 4, taking on Northern State University with hopes of a lake jump
looming.