SMSU (4-3) took on Minnesota State Mankato (MSU) (5-2) on Oct. 20. The Mustangs had never beaten MSU, the series being 14-0 prior to this matchup. SMSU was able to keep up with the high powered Mavericks, with a tie game going into half at 14 points each.

A 21 point fourth quarter put the Mustangs away for good as MSU won 35-20. Missed opportunities were once again the downfall for SMSU.

SMSU had the ball three times deep in MSU territory in the third quarter, including twice inside the red-zone but failed to score each time.

SMSU’s 20 points was their lowest point total of the season.

The defense played well up until the fourth quarter, limiting MSU to only 14 point through 3 quarters. They also forced 3 turnovers for the fifth time this season.

Quarterback Blake Gimbel finished the game 30 of 45 for 245 yards, one passing touchdown and one interception.

Max Simmons rushed a career high 28 times for 140 yards and two touchdowns.

SMSU will face off against Winona State on November 5 in the annual “battle for the sledge” game. SMSU will look to defend the Sledge as they won it at home last year.