JAMESTOWN, N.D. — #14 Minnesota State (3-1) defeated Jamestown (0-3) with a decisive 36-7 victory at Charlotte & Gordon Hansen Stadium, highlighted by a balanced offensive attack that accrued 549 total yards.

"I thought early on we made some plays and some mistakes and we struggled to get on the scoreboard, but the field goal before halftime was crucial," head coach Todd Hoffner. "We played great defense and ran the ball well and I though we played a strong second half that got us up 36-0 at one point. It was great to empty the bench and give everyone an opportunity to play to today. We are proud of this team coming home with a victory.".

Minnesota State's first-quarter performance against Jamestown was marked by a 46-yard touchdown run by freshman Maximus Sims, giving the visiting team a 6-0 lead. Sims' impressive run was part of a day where he not only showcased his rushing ability but also his versatility as a quarterback. The Mavericks accumulated 95 rushing yards on eight attempts and completed seven of eleven passes for 97 yards, although they missed a 44-yard field goal attempt. Defensively, Minnesota State forced a fumble recovery and an interception, stifling Jamestown's efforts and maintaining the lead through the opening period.

Minnesota State extended its lead in the second quarter against Jamestown with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Sims' precision passing. Sims completed eight of twelve passes for 142 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown strike to senior TreShawn Watson. During this quarter, Jamestown's punter, who averaged 48.7 yards per punt, was under constant pressure from the relentless Minnesota State defense. Sophomore Connor Fournier added two field goals, one from 24 yards and another from 35, contributing to the visitors' 19-0 advantage. Minnesota State's defense remained firm, holding Jamestown scoreless and forcing them to rely on their punting unit.

Minnesota State extended its lead to 26-0 over Jamestown in the third quarter, highlighted by a five-yard rushing touchdown from sophomore Sam Backer. Sims contributed with a 17-yard pass completion to freshman Hudson Dillon, and a 16-yard rush by Backer set up the scoring opportunity. The Mavericks' defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs and recording a sack by junior Max Sheridan for a five-yard loss, while Jamestown struggled to capitalize on their 11 plays and 44-yard drive. It was during this quarter that Max Sheridan's sack was crucial, as it halted a promising drive by Jamestown.

Minnesota State secured a commanding 36-7 victory over Jamestown, dominating the fourth quarter with a 10-point surge. freshman Lebarion Gilmore's 38-yard rush set the tone early in the period, contributing to the Mavericks' 84 rushing yards on 11 attempts. Sophomore Mitchell Thompson connected with Dillon for an 8-yard touchdown pass, while Fournier added a 35-yard field goal. Minnesota State's defense held strong, allowing just seven points and forcing a turnover on downs in the red zone, while junior Antoine Johnson Jr. recorded a crucial sack for a three-yard loss.

Sims completed 15 of 21 passes for 233 yards and one touchdown, adding a rushing touchdown on four carries for 65 yards. Watson caught five passes for 83 yards, including one touchdown. Backer led the ground game with 87 rushing yards on 11 attempts and scored once. Kicker Fournier successfully converted three field goals out of four attempts, with a long of 35 yards, and made all three extra-point attempts.

Quarterback Cole Hentges led the Jamestown offense with a strong ground performance, rushing for 115 yards and scoring one touchdown on 17 carries. Although his passing game was restrained, completing 13 of 32 attempts for 86 yards and one interception, Hentges was instrumental in advancing the offensive line. On defense, Hershell Jefferson made a significant impact with five tackles, forced one fumble, and recorded an interception. Evan Smith contributed defensively with four tackles and a sack, bolstering the team's efforts. Cody Pellaton also stood out by recovering a fumble, adding to the defensive accomplishments of the Jamestown squad.

Minnesota State improves to 3-1 overall and 2-1 in conference play after their decisive victory. Jamestown falls to 0-3 on the season, remaining winless in conference at 0-3.

Looking ahead, Minnesota State will host Sioux Falls in its annual Homecoming Game on Saturday, September 27 at Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato, Minn. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.