The Wayne State College football team took advantage of Bemidji State University miscues early, while its punishing, consistent ground game wore the BSU defense down late as the Wildcats defeated the Beavers, 35-13, in the 2014 season opener Saturday in Wayne, Nebraska.

Quarterback Jordan Hein would go 3-for-3 on the first scoring drive, including completions of 37 yards to Blake Holder and a 24-yard touchdown strike to recently converted fullback Evan Olson (5-10, 230, Sr., Bemidji Minn.), marching the Beavers 71 yards in just under two minutes to cut the WSC lead to a touchdown, 14-7. The score stood as not only the first touchdown pass for the freshman quarterback, it was also the first touchdown reception for the senior fullback, who was in his first game on the offensive side of the ball after roaming the Beavers’ linebacking corps for the past three seasons.

The Beavers will look to even their record Sept. 13 when they return to Bemidji, Minn. and Chet Anderson Stadium to host the University of Sioux Falls in the team’s annual Shrine Game. Festivities begin with a parade at 2 p.m. and continues with a tailgate party in Diamond Point Park beginning at 4 p.m. Kick off for the 2014 home opener is set for 6 p.m.