A season of firsts continues for Bemidji State University as the program enters the American Football Coaches Association Division II Coaches’ Poll for the first time since October 17, 2011, as released today. BSU (2-0, 2-0 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference), ranked No. 24 in the AFCA Coaches’ Poll, took down previously ranked No. 6 Minnesota State University, Mankato (1-1, 1-1 NSIC), 45-17, to make the appearance in the top 25 list.

Junior quarterback Jordan Hein finished with 306 passing yards, one passing touchdown and two rushing touchdowns while junior running back Tahi Nomane totaled three rushing scores on the night. Senior running back Gena Adams paced the rushing attack for the Beavers with 122 yards. Senior defensive back Damon Benham led the “Gang Green” with 10 tackles followed by junior linebacker Jamison Evans and sophomore corner back Gunner Olszewski with eight. Senior defensive back Kameel Al-Khouri and Olszewski each grabbed an interception on the night, the second of the season by Olszewski.

Junior quarterback Jordan Hein was named the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Offensive Player of the Week after leading Bemidji State University football to a 45-17 upset of Minnesota State University, Mankato Saturday, Sept. 10. Hein threw for 300+ yards for the second time in his career to push the Beavers to their first 2-0 start since 2011.

Hein and Bemidji State brings their No. 24 ranking back to Chet Anderson Stadium for a matchup against Wayne State College. The Beavers’ annual Shrine Game is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 in the 19th meeting in the series.