NDSCS Wildcats Erase 12-Point Deficit to Beat MNTC
Three touchdowns and two interceptions powered a second-half surge that secured a spot in the MCAC title game.
By Lauren Foster ·
The North Dakota State College of Science Wildcats trailed by 12 points at halftime but outscored the Minnesota State Technical and Community College Spartans in the second half to win 20-12 on Sunday, November 1. The final margin reflects a defensive collapse for the visiting team after a strong start that held the Wildcats scoreless through the first half.
The Spartans controlled the first 30 minutes. Quarterback Nolan Sharapata connected with Vince Ketchup on a 17-yard touchdown pass for the first score. Ketchup caught a second touchdown pass later in the half, extending the lead to 12-0. Both the extra point and the two-point conversion attempts failed to add to the margin.
NDSCS struggled to move the ball early in the game. The first eight possessions ended in punts. When the Wildcats took the field to start the second half, they were stopped on fourth down. Kicker Rynden Olson missed a field goal on that same drive. The offense continued to stall, resulting in further punts.
The momentum shifted when Edward Banks intercepted a pass. Darius Jones returned the ball and ran it 34 yards for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 12-7. Mathew Rahming intercepted another Spartan pass moments later. That turnover led to an eight-yard touchdown pass to Jeremiah Gibson, putting NDSCS ahead 14-12.
Jailen Vaughn scored the final touchdown on the ground. An extra point attempt missed, but the Wildcats held the lead for the 20-12 victory. Banks finished the game with two interceptions. Gibson, Jones, and Vaughn provided the scoring offense that overcame the early deficit.
NDSCS advances to the MCAC championship game. The Wildcats will face Minnesota North College Mesabi-Range next Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in Rochester, Minnesota.
Source: KBMW-FM
