North Dakota’s second-half comeback falls short in overtime loss to South Dakota

VERMILLION, S.D. (KFYR) — North Dakota nearly completed a 17-point comeback Saturday, but the Fighting Hawks fell to South Dakota 26-23 in overtime at the DakotaDome.

The No. 6/8 Fighting Hawks (6-3, 3-2 MVFC) struggled to find momentum early, allowing the No. 8/6 Coyotes (7-2, 4-1 MVFC) to build a 20-3 halftime lead. Two first-half turnovers proved costly for UND, which managed just a 46-yard field goal from Kenten Laughman before the break.

The Fighting Hawks shut out South Dakota in the second half while putting together a 17-point comeback, sending the game into overtime tied at 20.

UND briefly appeared to take control in the extra session, but a holding penalty erased a potential touchdown. UND settled for a 38-yard field goal from Laughman, giving it its first lead of the afternoon.

South Dakota answered with a touchdown in just two plays, securing the 26-23 victory and ending North Dakota’s comeback bid.

The loss drops UND to 3-2 in Missouri Valley Football Conference play. The Fighting Hawks are on the road against Youngstown state next Saturday.