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STATEMENT MADE.

Writer: Jeff Verhoef
Jeff Verhoef
Aug 20
2 min read

BCD UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS — The BCD University Travellers officially announced their arrival in the FBS with a resounding 62-7 victory over the NDSU Bison. In their inaugural American Athletic Conference campaign, the Travellers established dominance early, putting up a staggering 41 points in the first half to secure a massive opening-night win.


Under the stadium lights, Head Coach Taylor Smith's squad showcased a balanced, high-octane offensive attack and a suffocating defense, proving they are fully prepared for the elevated level of competition.


Offensive Explosion Sets the Tone

The Travellers' offense operated with clinical efficiency, accumulating 506 total yards and 28 first downs. Averaging a blistering 8.3 yards per play, the offense kept the Bison defense reeling all night long.


  • Jae Thiele (HB): Put on a masterclass in the backfield, rushing for 155 yards and 2 touchdowns on 18 carries while breaking 10 tackles.

  • Casey Baugess (QB): Orchestrated the passing game brilliantly, completing 19 of 29 passes for 258 yards and 2 touchdowns.

  • Bre Jurs (WR): Emerged as the primary receiving target, hauling in 7 catches for 101 yards.


  • Ground Attack: Nic Jessee and JP Paparazzo contributed heavily, with Jessee adding 64 rushing yards and a score, and Paparazzo punching in a 16-yard touchdown.

  • Air Support: Thomas Magnum efficiently added a passing touchdown, Jason Fortier secured 2 receiving touchdowns, and Kat Thompson pulled in another score.


Defensive Masterclass Stifles the Bison

While the offense lit up the scoreboard, the BCD defense locked down the line of scrimmage. The unit limited NDSU to a mere 195 total yards and 7 first downs, yielding only a single third-quarter touchdown.


  • Sam Stock (FS): Provided the defensive play of the game with a spectacular 100-yard interception return.

  • Craig Rappaport (LB): Anchored the defense with a team-high 7 total tackles, including 3 tackles for loss.

  • Vonte Mack (LB): Wreaked havoc in the backfield with 5 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, and a sack.

  • Pressure & Turnovers: Michael Knight recorded a 12-yard interception, while Lucas Settineri and Matt Orchowski each contributed a sack to complete the defensive rout.


With game one in the books, the Travellers have laid a powerful foundation for the rest of the season.


 
 
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