Full Breakdown
South Dakota Coyotes Defeat Northern Colorado Bears 38-23
9/7/2026, 4:31:19 AM
Game Overview
On Saturday, the South Dakota Coyotes secured a 38-23 victory over the Northern Colorado Bears. After the Bears opened the scoring with a 54-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Lueth to Trey Olsen, the Coyotes responded with three touchdowns before halftime, establishing a 14-point lead. Northern Colorado narrowed the gap to four points late in the first half, but South Dakota extended the margin again in the fourth quarter, sealing the win.
Key Performances
- Charles Pierre Jr. rushed for two touchdowns, including an 11-yard run early in the second half.
- Tennel Bryant scored on his sole carry, a 46-yard reverse that added to the early lead.
- Austyn Modrzewski threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to Brayden White.
- Bryce Cohoon caught a 22-yard pass in the fourth quarter, further stretching the lead.
- For Northern Colorado, Kenny Lueth completed 19 of 29 passes for 201 yards, while Trey Olsen recorded three receptions for 61 yards.
Statistical Highlights
- Final score: South Dakota 38, Northern Colorado 23.
- Touchdowns: South Dakota recorded five (four rushing, one passing); Northern Colorado scored two.
- Passing: Lueth’s 201 yards on 19-of-29 attempts; the Coyotes’ passing yards were not detailed in the reports.
- Field goals: Northern Colorado managed a first-half field goal that briefly reduced the deficit.
Background & Context
The win marked South Dakota’s first road opener in a full season since 2017 and continued a streak of five consecutive victories over Northern Colorado. Both programs entered the game with a 1-1 record.
Upcoming Implications
Following the triumph, South Dakota will host Eastern Washington the next Saturday, while Northern Colorado is slated to travel to FBS member Wyoming for its upcoming game.
