[MINOT, ND] — Minot State Beavers football enters Homecoming Weekend still searching for their first victory of the season, but the 0-3 record doesn't tell the entire story of the first three games. 

Every game has been decided by one score. 

And across the opening three games, the Beavers have shown several indicators of a team capable of competing with their opponents. Minot State offense has produced over 1,300 total yards, including 992 yards on the ground compared to just 561 rushing yards allowed by the defense. 

The numbers paint a picture of a team that has been able to move the football, control the clock and limit opposing rushing attacks, but has yet to consistently turn those advantages into victories. 

Now, with Homecoming bringing the Beavers to First Western Bank Field at Herb Parker Stadium, the team searches for their first win to seal their effort when they play against Southwest Minnesota (1-2). 

"We've got to continue to believe in what we're doing," Head Coach Ian Shields said. "We've got to find a way to finish." 

The foundation of Minot State's offense has been its rushing attack. 

Through three games, the Beavers have accumulated 992 rushing yards, an average of nearly 331 yards per game. Meanwhile, opposing teams have combined for just 561 rushing yards, giving the Beavers a significant advantage on the ground. 

That production has helped the Beavers control possession and dictate the pace of games. 

Overall, Minot State has generated more than 1,300 yards of total offense through three games, demonstrating the ability to consistently move the ball. 

The challenge now is turning that production into points when it matters most. 

Brandon Hines Jr. has been a key contributor to the ground attack, totaling 427 yards, while Sam Buckhanan has added 198 yards to the pile. The Beavers also have the luxury of having two dual-threat quarterbacks, Jett Lundeen and Matt Shinn, to split their time throughout each game, as well as a reliable offensive line.

"We're encouraged at the same time; our glasses are half full. There are a lot of positives to build off of," Shields said. "We just need to play a little better in critical situations." 

While the offense has established itself on the ground, the defense has also played an important role in keeping the Beavers within striking distance. 

Opponents have totaled only 561 rushing yards through three games, an average of 187 yards per game. The defense has helped prevent opposing offenses from consistently establishing the run and has given the Beavers offense plenty of opportunities to stay within one possession. 

That defensive performance has been particularly important in a season where the margin for error has been small. 

Through three games, the Beavers have allowed 109 points while scoring 91. Despite trailing in the overall point total, the team has remained competitive in each contest and has had opportunities to change the outcome late. 

"We just have to play a little better," Shields said. "It doesn't matter who's lining up against us, we just have to be the best version of ourselves." 

Another Chance to Break Through 

At 0-3, Minot State enters Saturday still looking for their first win. But with three consecutive one-score losses despite Minot State's historical offensive production, the Beavers look for redemption to come up with a win. 

Homecoming provides the next opportunity. 

"It's Homecoming, obviously, so we'll be excited to play" Shields said. 

In front of the home crowd, the Beavers will look to turn their rushing attack and solid defensive play into the result it has been pursuing since the season began. 

Kickoff between Minot State and Southwest Minnesota State is scheduled for Saturday, 2 pm, at Herb Parker Stadium. 

Beavers Players to Watch 

OFFENSE 

• Jett Lundeen (#16)

• Matt Shinn (#7)

• Brandon Hines Jr. (#2) 

• Sam Buckhanan (#44) 

• Jaden Fox (#30) 

DEFENSE 

• Conner Raetzman (#20)

• Austin Young (#8)

• Calvin Moore (#9)