MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State (2-0, 1-0 NSIC) secured a 34-16 victory over Minot State (0-2, 0-1 NSIC) on Saturday at Blakeslee Stadium, with a standout 71-yard touchdown pass highlighting the offensive effort.

Minnesota State took an early lead in the first quarter as sophomore Sam Backer scored the first touchdown with a one-yard rush, capping a 13-play, 64-yard drive. Freshman Maximus Sims contributed significantly to the offensive effort, completing three of five passes for 35 yards and rushing for 12 yards. While the Beavers struggled to find rhythm in the air with zero completions, they managed 73 rushing yards in 15 attempts.

Minnesota State's second quarter opened with a quick defensive stand, allowing only a 29-yard field goal by Minot State's Brandon McCary, but the home team responded swiftly. Senior TreShawn Watson's impressive 95-yard kickoff return set up a drive that resulted in sophomore Connor Fournier's successful 23-yard field goal, bringing the score to 10-3. The Maverick defense capitalized on turnovers, with junior Emanuel Spiyee intercepting a pass at the MSU 22-yard line, and senior Marcus Hansen recovering a fumble at the MSU 1-yard line, thwarting the Beavers' red-zone efforts.

Minnesota State emerged from the third quarter with a 27-10 lead over Minot State, bolstered by a 25-yard field goal from sophomore Connor Fournier and a pair of touchdowns. Sims and Backer led a robust ground attack, with Sims rushing for 42 yards on a single play and Backer securing a one-yard touchdown. Sophomore Mitchell Thompson connected with Watson for a 71-yard touchdown pass, highlighting Minnesota State's offensive strength. Despite a 25-yard touchdown run by Devan Daniels that briefly closed the gap, Minot State struggled to maintain momentum against the home team's consistent drives.

Minnesota State extended its lead early in the fourth quarter with a 28-yard touchdown pass from Thompson to Watson, increasing the score to 34-10. Fournier's extra point was good, and Harris Nichols' subsequent 65-yard kickoff resulted in a touchback. The Mavericks' defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs and limiting the Beavers' rushing attempts. Despite a late touchdown by Minot State's Carson Chrisman, the home team maintained control, securing a 34-16 victory.

Watson led the receiving corps with four catches for 113 yards and two touchdowns. Backer contributed two rushing touchdowns on 12 carries, totaling 30 yards. Sims showcased his versatility by rushing for 102 yards on nine attempts while also completing seven passes for 70 yards. On defense, Spiyee intercepted a pass, adding to his three total tackles.

Minot State's Daniels led the offensive charge with 157 rushing yards on 19 carries, including a touchdown. Evan Lovett also contributed significantly on the ground with 102 yards on 22 carries. On the defensive side, Deuce Carr made a notable impact with seven total tackles. Wilfredo Diaz secured an interception to bolster the team's defensive efforts. Additionally, Julian Kameristy was pivotal with four tackles and a fumble recovery, showcasing the team's defensive resilience.

Minnesota St. improved to 2-0 overall and 1-0 in conference play with their win. Minot St. fell to 0-2 overall and 0-1 in the conference following the loss.

The next challenge for Minnesota State comes as they head north to face Minnesota Duluth on Saturday, Sept. 13, at James S. Malosky Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.