NDSU punches ticket to FCS semifinal after beating Mercer 31-7

FARGO (KVRR) – It was a tale of two halves for the North Dakota State Bison, as the first half was dominated by their offense with Cam Miller and the second half was all about the defense holding down the fort in the 31-7 win over Mercer in the FCS quarterfinals.

“The fast start was good for us. Just to come out there and play loose, it was more about how we handled it.” said NDSU head coach, Tim Polasek.

Mercer had a rough time in the first half containing Miller and passing attack. Miller connected with Bryce Lance twice on touchdown throws to grow the lead over the Bears. However, they started to get to the fifth-year quarterback on multiple possessions, getting sacks and picking him off twice.

“I’m really proud of the kids. This has been one heck of a ride,” said Mercer head coach, Mike Jacobs. “I thought our defense gave us an effort.

Miller continues to add to his legacy for the Bison after surpassing Easton Stick for most total yards in school history. Miller now has 11,224 yards in his career. Doing so behind some changes on the offensive line due to injuries. But that didn’t faze the quarterback.

“The coaches were confident with it, and when the coaches and players are confident in the lineup up front, then I’m happy.” said Miller. 

NDSU will have their hands full next Saturday when they take on South Dakota State in the FCS semifinals. The Bison beat SDSU 13-9 back on October 19 this season. NDSU faces the Jackrabbits on December 21 at 11 a.m. at the FargoDome.