GRAND FORKS, N.D. — In an exciting matchup on Saturday, Aidan Bouman delivered an impressive performance by throwing three touchdown passes, while Charles Pierre Jr. and Travis Theis each contributed significantly with over 100 rushing yards and a touchdown. South Dakota managed to secure a narrow victory over North Dakota with a final score of 42-36.

Theis had a standout game, rushing for 150 yards on 16 carries, and capped his performance with an 8-yard touchdown run in the early moments of the fourth quarter, extending the Coyotes’ lead to 35-21. Pierre also shined, running for 173 yards on 15 attempts, and capped off his effort with an electrifying 76-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to a full three touchdowns with just under ten minutes remaining.

As the game neared its end, Simon Romfo scored for North Dakota on a 7-yard run. He then connected with Bo Belquist for a 3-yard touchdown pass and added a 2-point conversion shortly before the final whistle, bringing the score to a tense 42-36. Despite a late surge, the Coyotes (8-2, 6-1 in the Missouri Valley Football Conference) maintained their composure and recovered an onside kick, setting up a crucial battle with the top-ranked North Dakota State next week.

North Dakota initially took the lead in the first quarter when Sawyer Seidl scored on a 51-yard run, giving them a 7-0 advantage. Romfo, who was 20 of 30 for 180 yards, connected on short touchdown passes to Nick Kupfer and Quincy Vaughn, helping the Fighting Hawks (5-6, 2-5) head into halftime with a 21-17 lead. Bouman countered for South Dakota with touchdown passes to Carter Bell and Quaron Adams, keeping the game competitive.

The turning point came in the second half when Bouman, who completed 15 of 21 passes for 190 yards, linked up with Pierre for a 53-yard touchdown pass, allowing South Dakota to seize the lead.

In total, South Dakota amassed 512 yards of offense, while North Dakota closed with 322 total yards. The game was filled with exciting plays and showcased the talents of both teams, especially the Coyotes as they gear up for their next challenge against top-ranked competition.