North Dakota State blanks Fordham 38-0, improves to 2-0 in first FBS season

Published Sep. 5, 2026 6:48 p.m. ET
Associated Press

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Nathan Hayes threw for two touchdowns, DJ Scott ran for two and North Dakota State allowed just 135 total yards in a 38-0 win over FCS-opponent Fordham on Saturday.

NDSU's shutdown defensive effort included a 37-yard pick-6 by Marion Moore that gave the Bison a 24-0 lead one minute into the second half.

Hayes completed 18 of 22 passes for 210 yards. His touchdowns were 8 yards to Chris Kiel and 12 yards to Mekhi Collins.

Scott had 60 yards rushing, including touchdown runs of 3 and 7 yards. The Bison had 128 yards rushing and 245 yards passing for a total offense of 373 yards.

The 10-time FCS national champion Bison improved to 2-0 in their first season at the FBS level.

Fordham (0-2) was held to 135 yards, 49 of which came on the Rams' final drive that ended in an interception at the NDSU 20-yard line. It was Gunnar Smith’s third interception; he also lost a fumble.

Fordham linebacker Andrew Osmun had 13 total tackles, seven solo tackles, one sack and three tackles for loss.

Up next

North Dakota State: at Air Force on Saturday

Fordham: at Coastal Carolina on Saturday —-

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