Michigan Tech’s football team delivered a statement performance Thursday night, shutting down a formidable Bemidji State Beavers squad in the second half to secure a 37-17 victory at Kearly Stadium. The Huskies, who fell to the Beavers in overtime last year, showcased their growth and resilience, utilizing a series of “gadget plays” to outmaneuver the No. 16-ranked team.
Head coach Dan Mettlach praised his team’s composure and execution, highlighting the importance of veteran leadership. “I can’t say enough about the guys,” Mettlach said. “Top 16 team coming in, as many new faces as we had, I felt like the confidence, and the way we went about our business in early camp, was incredible.” The Huskies’ ability to adapt and make smart decisions under pressure was evident, particularly in a play where wide receiver Ethan Champney scored on an improvised run.
Quarterback Alex Bueno, making his first start, displayed poise and athleticism, rushing for 102 yards and completing 15 of 24 passes for two touchdowns and one interception. Mettlach noted Bueno’s ability to make plays with his feet and manage the game, despite needing more experience in certain areas. “He got us out of a ton of trouble today,” Mettlach said. “And it wasn’t just the big plays, there were a couple third downs that he converted with patience in the backfield, just letting things develop, and understanding where the sticks are at.”
The Huskies’ offense was dynamic, with contributions from multiple players. Junior wide receiver Nic Nora, returning from an injury that sidelined him all of 2024, scored two touchdowns and showcased his speed and agility. “It felt great,” Nora said. “It’s always a long year with injuries, and I just kept my head down, kept grinding, and it felt awesome to be back out there, especially with the result with a top 16 team coming to our house.”
Junior running back Jake Rueff also made significant contributions, rushing for 57 yards and catching five passes for a game-high 70 yards and a touchdown. The Huskies’ defense, led by junior linebacker Porter Zeeman with eight tackles, played a crucial role in shutting down the Beavers in the second half.
Looking ahead, the Huskies face a challenging road trip to South Dakota Mines next week. Mettlach emphasized the need for consistency in their base offense and continued development from Bueno. “We need to get more consistent moving the football with our base stuff so that we’re not going to be able to rely on trick plays or ‘AB’ getting us out of trouble over and over again,” Mettlach said.
This victory against a ranked opponent sets a strong tone for the Huskies’ season. It demonstrates their potential to compete at a high level and their ability to execute complex plays under pressure. As they prepare for their next challenge, the Huskies will look to build on this performance and continue their upward trajectory in the competitive world of college football.