WAYNE, Neb. — Wayne State (4-4, 4-3 NSIC) defeated #9 Minnesota St. (6-2, 5-2 NSIC) 33-20 at Bob Cunningham Field, despite MSU's three touchdown passes.

Wayne State capitalized on two rushing touchdowns, a 16-yarder by Brady McGill and a 75-yard burst by Brennan Hayes, to establish a 13-0 lead over the Mavericks in the first quarter. Despite Minnesota State's efficient passing, completing both attempts for 25 yards, the Mavericks struggled to convert on third downs, achieving no conversions in two attempts. Wayne State maintained a strong ground game with 135 rushing yards, while the Mavericks were held to 39 yards on 11 carries.

Minnesota State's second-quarter drive was highlighted by sophomore Mitchell Thompson's 20-yard touchdown pass to senior Nassir Jones, bringing the score to within six points at 13-7. Despite a blocked field goal attempt earlier in the period, the Mavericks capitalized on a penalty to sustain their possession and ultimately score. Wayne State responded with a late touchdown drive, led by Dawson Forgy's one-yard rush as time expired, concluding the half with a 19-7 advantage.

Minnesota State capitalized on a methodical drive early in the third quarter, with Thompson connecting with Jones for a four-yard touchdown pass at 11:05, narrowing the gap to 19-14. However, Wayne State responded with a touchdown of its own, extending its lead to 26-14 by the end of the period. The Maverick offense managed 70 yards on their scoring drive and successfully converted a critical third down with a 43-yard pass from Thompson to senior Jake Cicero, but an interception later in the quarter stymied their momentum.

WSC capitalized on a pivotal 69-yard touchdown rush by Brennan Hayes at 12:52, extending their advantage and setting a decisive tone in the fourth quarter. The Mavericks responded with a 26-yard pass from Thompson to freshman Hudson Dillon, culminating in a touchdown at 7:35, but failed to convert the subsequent two-point attempt. This proved to be the final score of the game as WSC came away with the 33-20 win.

Thompson completed 12-of-18 passes for 161 yards and three touchdowns, adding 65 rushing yards on 17 attempts. Jones contributed with four receptions for 41 yards and two touchdowns. Freshman Hudson Dillon caught two passes for 29 yards, including one touchdown. On defense, junior Myzel Williams led with seven total tackles, while junior Tanner Olson recorded three tackles and one sack.

Dawson Forgy led Wayne State with a standout performance, rushing for 137 yards on 24 carries and scoring one touchdown. Bennett Dannenbring completed all five of his pass attempts for 63 yards and one touchdown. Kahmel Johnson contributed defensively with an interception, returning it for 13 yards. Brennan Hayes was a key offensive player, rushing for 184 yards on 13 attempts and finding the end zone twice. Jes Krcil led the defensive effort with a team-high 14 tackles.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will face Southwest Minnesota State at Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato, Minn. on Saturday, November 1st. The game will kick off at noon.