Bison Domination: The North Dakota State Bison commenced their 2025 season with an emphatic statement, securing a decisive 38-0 victory over The Citadel Bulldogs. The game, held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Johnson Hagood Stadium in Charleston, South Carolina, not only showcased NDSU’s offensive prowess and defensive resilience but also marked the first encounter between these two football programs. According to the Associated Press, the Bison outgained The Citadel by a staggering 520-122 in total yards, signaling their intent to defend their FCS national championship title under the guidance of second-year head coach Tim Polasek.
A Commanding Start to the Season
The North Dakota State Bison, ranked number one in the FCS, left no doubt about their championship aspirations as they steamrolled The Citadel. The Bison’s commanding performance was a stark contrast to their narrow 31-26 victory in the previous season opener, demonstrating significant improvement and readiness. The game, which kicked off at noon ET, was closely watched by fans and analysts alike, with FOX Sports, Star Tribune, and Yahoo Sports all carrying reports from the Associated Press, highlighting the Bison’s dominant performance.
Key Players and Performances
Quarterback Cole Payton was a standout performer, amassing 293 yards of total offense, including 192 passing yards and 101 rushing yards. Payton’s dual-threat capability was on full display, keeping The Citadel’s defense on its heels throughout the game. Running back Barika Kpeenu contributed significantly with two short touchdown runs, further solidifying NDSU’s ground game dominance. Wide receiver RaJa Nelson also made his mark, catching a 34-yard touchdown pass from Payton, showcasing the Bison’s aerial attack capabilities.
Other notable contributors to the scoreboard included Nathan Hayes, DJ Scott, and Isiah St. Romain, each adding touchdowns to NDSU’s tally. The depth of talent within the Bison’s roster was evident, with multiple players stepping up to make significant contributions. According to NDSU Athletics, the team’s balanced attack and relentless defense were key factors in their overwhelming victory.
Defensive Masterclass
The Bison’s defense was equally impressive, holding The Citadel scoreless and preventing them from establishing any offensive momentum. The Bulldogs only managed to cross into NDSU territory once, turning the ball over on downs, a testament to the Bison’s defensive prowess. This shutout marked NDSU’s first since the 2021 season, underscoring the team’s commitment to defensive excellence. The Citadel’s Head Coach, Maurice Drayton, faced a tough challenge as his team struggled to find any offensive rhythm against the Bison’s stifling defense.
First Encounter: Bison Triumphant
This game marked the first-ever meeting between North Dakota State and The Citadel, adding an element of novelty to the season opener. For NDSU, it was an opportunity to extend their perfect record against Southern Conference opponents, which now stands at 11-0. The Bison’s victory further solidifies their reputation as a dominant force in FCS football, with a track record of success against teams from various conferences.
The Citadel’s Perspective
For The Citadel, the game represented a challenging start to their campaign. Being shut out for the first time since their 2023 season opener was a tough blow, highlighting the areas where the team needs to improve. According to The Citadel Athletics, the team will need to regroup and address both offensive and defensive shortcomings to compete effectively in their upcoming games. The experience gained from facing a top-ranked opponent like NDSU could prove valuable as the season progresses.
Impact and Future Outlook
The decisive victory has immediate implications for North Dakota State, reinforcing their status as the team to beat in FCS football. Their dominant performance sends a clear message to their rivals and sets the stage for a successful title defense. The Bison’s ability to perform at such a high level early in the season demonstrates their readiness and determination.
Dominance Displayed
The impact on The Citadel is equally significant, serving as a wake-up call and highlighting the level of competition they will face throughout the season. The Bulldogs will need to learn from this experience and make necessary adjustments to improve their performance. The game also provides valuable film for coaching staff to analyze and identify areas for improvement.
In conclusion, North Dakota State’s resounding 38-0 victory over The Citadel marks a powerful start to their 2025 season. Cole Payton’s offensive command, coupled with a suffocating defense, signals the Bison’s readiness to defend their national title. While The Citadel faces challenges ahead, the experience provides critical insights for their development. The game underscores NDSU’s dominance and sets the stage for an exciting season of FCS football.
