Full Breakdown
North Dakota State Dominates St. Thomas in Regular Season Finale
11/23/2025, 12:44:08 PM
Unbeaten Season Concluded with a Blowout Victory
On November 22, 2025, the No. 1-ranked North Dakota State University (NDSU) football team capped off an undefeated regular season with a decisive 62-7 victory over the University of St. Thomas at Gate City Bank Field in Fargo, North Dakota. The Bison finished the season with a perfect 12-0 record, solidifying their position as the likely No. 1 seed in the upcoming Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs.
Game Overview
NDSU showcased its dominance early, scoring 28 points in the first quarter alone. Barika Kpeenu led the Bison with a career-long 74-yard touchdown run and two additional scores, while quarterback Cole Payton threw for three touchdowns, completing 9 of 12 passes for 279 yards. The Bison amassed a total of 665 yards of offense, compared to St. Thomas's 229 yards. The Tommies struggled significantly, particularly after losing starting quarterback Andy Peters to injury prior to the game.
Key Players and Performances
Kpeenu's performance was pivotal, as he recorded 107 rushing yards on 10 carries and caught a 47-yard touchdown pass. Payton's passing game was complemented by Bryce Lance, who had three receptions for 106 yards and two touchdowns, including an 81-yard touchdown reception, marking the ninth-longest passing play in NDSU history. The Bison's defense was equally impressive, forcing two interceptions and limiting St. Thomas to just 82 yards in the first half.
St. Thomas's Challenges
The Tommies entered the game with a 7-4 record but faced significant challenges due to injuries, particularly the absence of Peters. Senior Amari Powell took over as quarterback but struggled, completing only 5 of 13 passes for 41 yards and throwing two interceptions before being replaced. St. Thomas managed to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but the game was largely a showcase of NDSU's superiority.
Official Statements & Responses
NDSU head coach Tim Polasek praised his team's performance, stating, "Really good job coming out ready to go, regardless of the opponent." He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and executing their game plan effectively. St. Thomas head coach Glenn Caruso acknowledged the difficulties posed by the injuries, noting, "We will simply play those who are able and hope for the best."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the overwhelming loss, St. Thomas demonstrated resilience, particularly in the second half, where they limited NDSU to only one score in the final 18 minutes. Critics of the matchup highlighted the disparity in resources and scholarship opportunities between the two programs, with St. Thomas being a non-scholarship team in the Pioneer Football League.
What's Next for Both Teams
With the regular season concluded, NDSU awaits the announcement of the FCS playoff bracket, where they are expected to receive a first-round bye. St. Thomas, finishing the season with a 7-5 record, will focus on offseason training and recruitment to improve their performance in the next season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We came out right away willing to play for our brothers.” — Barika Kpeenu, NDSU Running Back
- “Any time you get a chance to play a great football team, there’s a lot you can extract from that,” — Glenn Caruso, St. Thomas Head Coach
- “It will be exciting. (I) think we did a good shutting the door and handling our business,” — Anthony Chideme-Alfaro, NDSU Cornerback
This game not only highlighted NDSU's strength as they head into the playoffs but also served as a learning experience for St. Thomas as they continue their transition to Division I football.
