The University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks secured a decisive 31-6 victory against Tennessee Tech in the first round of the FCS playoffs on December 2, 2023. This win marks a significant achievement for the Hawks, who advance to the next round for the first time since 2021.
The game, held in Cookeville, Tennessee, showcased a resilient Fighting Hawks defense that forced six turnovers, including three fumbles by Tennessee Tech quarterback Kekoa Visperas. Despite facing challenges on offense, especially after injuries to key players, UND managed to pull away in the fourth quarter, scoring three touchdowns to seal the win.
In the early stages of the game, the Hawks struggled offensively. Quarterback Jerry Kaminski left the field after taking a hit to the head early in the second half, leaving the team in a precarious position. With wide receiver B.J. Fleming also sidelined due to injury, it was up to the remaining players to rally.
Defense Shines as Offense Adjusts
The turning point came during Tennessee Tech’s final drive of the third quarter, when Lance Rucker executed a critical strip-sack, his third of the game. This play not only halted Tennessee Tech’s momentum but also set the stage for the Fighting Hawks’ offense to regroup.
Undeterred, UND turned to Gaven Ziebarth, who returned to play after a month-long absence due to a collarbone injury. Ziebarth’s contributions were immediate and impactful, as he rushed for gains of 7, 8, and 8 yards, leading to an 8-yard touchdown run by Colton Brunell that extended the lead to 17-6 with just under 12 minutes remaining.
Ziebarth’s performance was impressive, with a total of 11 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown. Reflecting on his return to the field, Ziebarth expressed relief and excitement: “It was a long five or six weeks. I knew we could get to this point. I was ready.”
The Hawks converted a narrow 10-6 lead into a commanding victory, showcasing their depth and resilience. After the touchdown by Brunell, Ziebarth further solidified the lead with a 3-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 24-6.
Historic Win and Future Challenges
This victory not only marks the first FCS playoff road win for UND but also demonstrates their growth as a team. Coach Eric Schmidt praised his players for their ability to perform under pressure, stating, “We’ve been in that position a lot all year long. Really challenged the guys, like, hey, let’s put it all together.”
As the Fighting Hawks improve to an 8-5 record, they now look ahead to a challenging matchup against Tarleton State in the second round of the playoffs on December 9, 2023, in Stephenville, Texas.
Rucker’s standout performance included 10.5 sacks this season, further establishing him as a key player for the Hawks. Schmidt emphasized the importance of Rucker’s presence on the field, underscoring his potential for a future career in the NFL.
Despite the offensive challenges faced during the game, the Fighting Hawks’ defensive prowess ultimately led them to a significant playoff victory. As they prepare for the next round, the team remains focused on building momentum and leveraging their experience from this hard-fought win.
