GRAND FORKS, N.D. — In an impressive display of teamwork, Mark Gronowski threw for 193 yards and connected for three touchdowns, with Griffin Wilde being the standout receiver, scoring all three touchdowns for a total of 140 yards. South Dakota State dominated the second quarter, scoring 28 points en route to a commanding 38-7 victory against North Dakota on Saturday.
With this win, South Dakota State improved to a record of 8-2 overall and 5-1 within the Missouri Valley Football Conference, extending their winning streak against North Dakota to four games and securing six victories in their last seven encounters. North Dakota now holds a record of 5-5 and 2-4 in the conference.
The scoring spree for South Dakota State began on the first play of the second quarter, as Angel Johnson made a spectacular run around the right side for a 29-yard touchdown. Gronowski then added to the lead with touchdown throws of 25 and 39 yards, increasing their advantage to 24-7.
The momentum continued when Dawson Ripperda recovered a fumble at North Dakota’s 27-yard line. Capitalizing on the short field, Amar Johnson dashed for a 6-yard rushing touchdown, bringing the score to 31-7. Wilde finished the scoring with a 47-yard touchdown catch for the only points of the second half.
Both Angel Johnson and Amar Johnson had outstanding performances on the ground, each rushing for over 70 yards and securing a touchdown. Angel Johnson achieved 100 yards for the second consecutive game, while Amar Johnson contributed 74 yards. South Dakota State outperformed North Dakota in total offense significantly, racking up 457 yards compared to North Dakota’s 248 yards.
North Dakota’s quarterback, Simon Romfo, faced challenges, including one interception. The team’s offense struggled, suffering their third consecutive defeat. Isaiah Smith managed to shine amidst the lackluster performance, carrying the ball nine times for 87 yards and a touchdown. North Dakota initially missed a field goal on their opening drive before managing to score their only touchdown shortly thereafter in the first quarter.