By Kristin Farris BSU Assistant Director of Athletic Media Relations

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (0-1) fell to Michigan Technological
University (1-0) in a narrow 31–29 defeat on Thursday evening at Chet Anderson
Stadium. The Beavers successfully converted all four of their red zone
opportunities, scoring three touchdowns and a field goal in the contest.

Bemidji State began play by kicking off to Michigan Tech, who quickly capitalized on
their opening drive with a series of first downs, culminating in an Elliott Larner
rushing touchdown. The Beavers responded with a dynamic offensive drive, highlighted
by a 51-yard pass from Bart McAninch to Zavery Guerra. This drive concluded with
McAninch connecting with Lucas Peterson for a 19-yard touchdown pass, tying the game
at 7–7. However, Michigan Tech regained momentum with a touchdown pass to Nic Nora,
leaving Bemidji State trailing 13–7 at the end of the first quarter.

Bemidji State made a significant impact early in the second quarter with a drive
that began at its own 28-yard line. McAninch’s 57-yard pass to Guerra set up a
crucial scoring opportunity, which Connor Carver capitalized on with a 1-yard
touchdown run at 10:23. Kyle Nadler’s successful extra point put the Beavers ahead
14–13. However, Michigan Tech responded with a touchdown and a field goal,
reclaiming the lead by the end of the half. The game concluded with Michigan Tech
securing a 23–14 victory.

Bemidji State showed resilience in the third quarter, with Carver rushing for a
21-yard gain that advanced the team into Michigan Tech territory. However, the team
faced a setback when a pass by McAninch was intercepted by Joey Donahue at the
MTU36, halting the momentum. Despite Bemidji State’s defensive efforts, Michigan
Tech extended its lead with a touchdown by Larner, followed by a successful pass
attempt, bringing the score to 31–14. The game concluded with Michigan Tech securing
the victory.

Bemidji State started the fourth quarter with a successful 14-yard pass from Mack
Molander to Peterson, setting up a drive that culminated in a 29-yard field goal by
Nadler, narrowing the deficit. Following a fumble recovery by Joey Funderburk, the
Beavers capitalized with a 1-yard touchdown run by Carver, further closing the gap
against Michigan Tech. In the final minutes, McAninch connected with Peterson for a
26-yard touchdown pass, bringing Bemidji State within two points. Despite this late
surge, Michigan Tech maintained its lead, ending the game at 31–29.

Carver rushed for 58 yards on 12 carries and scored two touchdowns. Peterson
contributed with six receptions for 79 yards and two touchdowns. Guerra led the
receivers with 119 yards on three catches. On defense, Ray Iglesias recorded nine
tackles.

Bemidji State will host Southwest Minnesota State University in a conference matchup
on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 2 p.m. in Bemidji, Minn.