The UND vs Kansas State matchup on August 30, 2025 delivered one of the most exhilarating opening games of the college football season. What was expected to be a routine win for the then-ranked No. 17/20 Kansas State Wildcats quickly transformed into a nail-biting spectacle, with North Dakota mounting a formidable challenge. The game featured nine lead changes and culminated in a breathtaking 81-yard touchdown drive in the final minute allowing Kansas State to escape with a narrow 38–35 victory.
North Dakota’s quarterback Jerry Kaminski making his first collegiate start, led an inspired performance that energized the Fighting Hawks. Kaminski’s poise and playmaking ability kept UND competitive throughout the game, while Kansas State relied on quarterback Avery Johnson’s experience and leadership to navigate the shifting momentum. Both teams showcased offensive versatility, rushing power and a flair for big plays that kept fans on edge throughout four quarters.
This contest underscored the unpredictable nature of early-season FCS vs FBS matchups. For Kansas State, it tested mental toughness and offensive efficiency, while North Dakota demonstrated that disciplined execution and composure could nearly overcome a ranked Power Five opponent. The game not only served as a dramatic opener but also became a case study in resilience, clutch performance, and competitive spirit in modern college football.
First Half: Early Leads and Momentum Shifts
UND vs Kansas State opened with a shock when Kaminski recovered his own fumble for a touchdown on only the third play, giving North Dakota a 7–3 lead. Kansas State responded with a 44-yard touchdown pass to regain the advantage briefly, but UND countered to take a 21–17 lead by halftime. The early exchanges highlighted Kaminski’s calm decision-making under pressure and the Fighting Hawks’ ability to challenge a ranked opponent.
Kansas State’s offensive strategies relied on Avery Johnson’s arm strength and timing, connecting on key passes and maintaining offensive balance. Yet defensive gaps allowed UND to sustain drives and score consistently, proving that momentum in UND vs Kansas State could shift in a single series. The first half demonstrated that this game would not follow the expected script and set the stage for a dramatic second half.
Second Half: Kansas State Surges, UND Responds
After halftime, Kansas State asserted control, with DeVon Rice scoring two rushing touchdowns to take a 31–21 lead. Johnson orchestrated efficient drives, blending short passes with dynamic scrambles, illustrating his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback.
However, UND’s resilience became apparent in the fourth quarter. Korey Tai caught a 22-yard touchdown, and Sawyer Seidl powered through a 20-yard rushing score to tie the game at 35. The Fighting Hawks’ persistence underlined the competitive intensity of UND vs Kansas State, highlighting their ability to respond to pressure against a highly-ranked FBS team. Each score amplified tension in Bill Snyder Family Stadium, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final moments.
Final Minute: The Decisive Drive
With the score tied at 35, Kansas State began a critical 81-yard drive that would decide the outcome. Johnson, calm under pressure, mixed accurate short passes and strategic runs, including a pivotal 25-yard scramble. The drive concluded with a six-yard touchdown pass to Joe Jackson with 42 seconds remaining, giving Kansas State a 38–35 lead. UND’s final possession ended without a scoring opportunity, cementing the Wildcats’ narrow escape.
Key Statistics and Player Performances
| Team | Total Yards | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Key Players |
| North Dakota | 354 | 252 | 102 | Jerry Kaminski, Sawyer Seidl |
| Kansas State | 461 | 318 | 143 | Avery Johnson, DeVon Rice |
Kansas State’s Avery Johnson threw for 318 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 43 yards, demonstrating leadership during critical drives. Jayce Brown contributed 109 receiving yards and one touchdown, complementing the Wildcats’ balanced offensive approach. On the other side, Kaminski’s first start was impressive, with 231 passing yards, one passing touchdown, and two rushing scores, while Seidl added 62 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
| Player | Team | Receptions | Yards | Touchdowns |
| Jayce Brown | Kansas State | 12 | 109 | 1 |
| Korey Tai | North Dakota | 5 | 37 | 1 |
| Sawyer Seidl | North Dakota | 7 | 62 | 2 |
Expert Analysis
Chris Hummer, a college football analyst, noted, “UND vs Kansas State showcased how disciplined underdogs can challenge ranked programs. Kaminski’s poise created a nearly historic upset.”
Coach Mike Lucas added, “Kansas State’s late-game composure under Johnson reflects strong culture, but defensive lapses must be addressed for conference play.”
Journalist Angela Morris observed, “A close call against an FCS opponent prompts discussion about rankings and consistency. UND vs Kansas State was a dramatic reminder of football’s unpredictability.”
Takeaways from UND vs Kansas State
- North Dakota nearly staged a historic FCS upset, defying expectations.
- Avery Johnson’s leadership proved pivotal in high-pressure situations.
- Defensive vulnerabilities for Kansas State require attention before conference matchups.
- Jerry Kaminski’s first start demonstrated exceptional composure.
- Nine lead changes highlighted the competitive nature of the game.
- Fan reactions included calls for re-evaluation of rankings.
- The matchup exemplifies the growing parity in college football.
Conclusion
The UND vs Kansas State game on August 30, 2025, will be remembered as a dramatic opener defined by resilience, momentum swings, and last-minute heroics. While Kansas State narrowly escaped with a 38–35 victory, North Dakota’s performance underscored the competitiveness of FCS programs against ranked opponents. This game highlighted the unpredictability of college football, the importance of late-game leadership, and the excitement of underdogs challenging expectations. As both programs continue their seasons, this matchup stands as a testament to determination, strategy, and the thrill of competitive football.
FAQs
Q: What was the final score of UND vs Kansas State?
A: Kansas State won 38–35.
Q: Who led Kansas State’s offense?
A: Avery Johnson threw for 318 yards and three touchdowns.
Q: How did UND’s quarterback perform in his first start?
A: Jerry Kaminski passed for 231 yards with one passing and two rushing touchdowns.
Q: How many lead changes occurred in the game?
A: The game featured nine lead changes.
Q: What was notable about Kansas State’s final drive?
A: The Wildcats executed an 81-yard touchdown drive in the final minute to secure victory.
References
Fighting Hawks. (2025, August 30). North Dakota’s upset bid falls short against Kansas State, 38–35. https://fightinghawks.com/news/2025/8/30/football-north-dakotas-upset-bid-at-no-17-20-kansas-state-falls-short-38-35.aspx
Kansas State Athletics. (2025, August 30). Late touchdown lifts K-State past North Dakota, 38–35. https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2025/8/30/football-late-johnson-td-lifts-k-state-past-north-dakota-38-35
ESPN. (2025, August 30). Kansas State vs North Dakota 2025 final stats. https://www.espn.com/college-football/game/_/gameId/401756855/north-dakota-kansas-st
ON3. (2025). Kansas State players of the game vs North Dakota. https://www.on3.com/teams/kansas-state-wildcats/news/kansas-state-players-of-the-game-versus-north-dakota/
