North Dakota State Defeats Mercer 31-7

North Dakota State University (NDSU) secured a spot in the FCS semifinals with a convincing 31-7 victory over Mercer on Saturday, marking their 13th semifinal appearance in 14 years. Quarterback Cam Miller led the Bison with 259 passing yards, two touchdown passes, and one rushing touchdown, while also surpassing Easton Stick for the school's total yardage record. Despite Mercer's first quarter touchdown, NDSU dominated the game, leading 24-7 at halftime and allowing only one touchdown in the second half. Mercer struggled offensively, with quarterback Whitt Newbauer managing just 90 passing yards and running back Dwayne McGee limited to 59 rushing yards. The win sets up a rematch against South Dakota State, a team NDSU defeated earlier in the season. Coach Tim Polasek praised the defense for limiting Mercer to 195 total yards and only eight first downs.