FARGO, N.D. — In a commanding performance on Saturday, Cam Miller threw for a personal best of four touchdown passes, while backup quarterback Nathan Hayes contributed with an additional score, leading North Dakota State University (NDSU) to a decisive 59-21 victory over Missouri State. This win not only solidified NDSU’s position at the top of the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) standings but also ensured at least a share of the conference title for the Bison.
This matchup was particularly notable, as it marked only the second occasion where two teams in the MVFC faced off with undefeated 6-0 records. The top-ranked NDSU, now standing at 10-1 overall and 7-0 in the league, celebrated its 11th MVFC championship win.
The scoring commenced with Barika Kpeenu making a spectacular 52-yard touchdown run, followed by NDSU’s defense recovering a fumble during Missouri State’s second drive, setting the stage for further offense. Miller connected with Joe Stoffel on a crucial fourth-and-goal situation from the 3-yard line, extending their lead to 14 points after just two drives.
A 22-yard reception by Jackson Williams from Miller capped off a remarkable 95-yard touchdown drive, establishing a commanding 21-0 advantage. As the first half drew to a close, Stoffel added his second touchdown, bringing the Bison’s halftime score to 35-14. In the third quarter, CharMar Brown contributed a significant 48-yard touchdown run, while Kpeenu struck again with a 49-yard touchdown run, marking NDSU’s third score of the game that exceeded 48 yards.
NDSU’s dominance continues in its historical matchups against Missouri State, having now achieved 13 consecutive victories against them. The Bears, ranked 14th in the FCS coaches poll, fall to a 1-7 record in Fargo, while NDSU has extended its all-time series advantage to 14-2 against Missouri State since 2008. Last season, NDSU showcased its prowess with a total of 534 yards and forced four turnovers in a commanding 38-10 victory over the same opponent.
Jacob Clark led Missouri State (8-3, 6-1) with 247 passing yards in the losing effort.