North Dakota State defeated Montana State 38-10 to win the FCS national championship. Luepke's three first-half touchdowns bring his playoff touchdown total to six; the fullback scored just five total touchdowns during the 11-game regular season. 1 Century past fourth-ranked Minot, Witzke embraces captain role for Marauders, Kellogg, Sabers edge Demons in OT for key West Region win, Rafael Nadal 'mentally destroyed' as Australian Open defense ends in injury, LeBron James reaches 38,000 career points, Tom Brady to take more time before making decision on future, Some of the most iconic moments of the Australian Open. "He was bringing some energy to the team. FARGO, ND (KVRR) In his first game back from injury, Hunter Luepke is the latest Missouri Valley Offensive Player of the Week after exploding for 195 rushing yards and 3 During the regular season, Montana State, home of the nation's second leading scoring defense, averaged only 108.1 rushing yards per game and 2.9 yards per carry. We see that you have javascript disabled. pic.twitter.com/Jt9vsnclUs. For others, it's a curse. Make that 3 first half TD's for Hunter Luepke! However, the game was already out of reach. One fantasy Luepke says he will schedule his own Pro Day in late April to give the scouts as best an evaluation as they can get. Week 3 stats: 490 passing yards, three passing TDs, zero interceptions during a 26-23 overtime win over California (Pa.)Nagys take: A rule of thumb for most NFL organizations is that scouts need to see quarterbacks with draftable grades play in a live game exposure, and thats how we do it at the Senior Bowl as well. Draft. He fumbled a punt late in the game that could have been disastrous, but he scrambled and recovered it. NDSU Women Move to 8-0 at Home; Win Third Straight, NDSU Destroys Denver: Stays Unbeaten at Home, North Dakota Women's Basketball Returns From Road Trip Thursday, Jamestown Priest Removed During Investigation Into Inappropriate Conduct, First Responder Has Serious Injuries After Ambulance Hit Near Edmore, North Dakota, Update: Police identify Wahpeton shooting victim, Driver Loses Control on I-29 in Fargo on Slick Roads, Ends Up In Handcuffs, Hundreds attend the North Dakota Grain Dealers Association Convention. The first big upset of the Class A girls basketball season came when Legacy took down top-ranked Minot. Luepke returned against UND, running for three touchdowns in a Bison rout. NDSU: Hunter Luepke 55 yard run (Griffin Crosa kick), 14:10. That means no Senior Bowl. For some, an undefeated record is a blessing. Former Spencer High School football standout Hunter Luepke will not play for the remainder of this season for the North Dakota State football team. Luepke had missed all of North Dakota States previous spring games with a shoulder injury, but on the fourth play from scrimmage he took a handoff from Zeb Noland, cut around the right side of the Bison line, split two defenders, fought off a would-be tackler at the 10 and, losing his balance, dove the final three yards into the end zone for a career-long run. [NOTE: Smith was the On3 Consensus No. Luepke suffered an apparent shoulder injury in the first half last Saturday at Southern Illinois. He spent the second half standing on the sideline in a sling. Entz said Luepke is scheduled to get a second medical opinion this week. Trying to figure things out right now, Entz said. WebNorth Dakota State's Hunter Luepke takes the pitch and rams his way into the end zone for an 8-yard touchdown. Bison fullback Hunter Luepke scored his second rushing touchdown, this time from 11-yards out. 2023 NFL Draft Shrine Bowl prospect roundup: Rashee Rice, Charlie Jones rising, 2023 NFL Draft Sleepers: Jalen McMillan highlights a stacked Washington WR group, Top FCS 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Tucker Kraft, Xavier Gipson. 2 in the country, cut the deficit to 21-13 on a 21-yard touchdown pass from Tommy Schuster to Bo Belquist on its first drive of the second half. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. The three-year starter is slightly undersized at just over 6 feet and 223 pounds, but he actually fits the current NFL mold at the position because teams are sacrificing size for range right now and Dennis can play sideline to sideline. In 2019 as a freshman Luepke saw action in 14 games for the Bison as he ran for just 40 yards on 5 attempts for an outstanding 8.0 yards per carry, with one TD, with one fumble. The biggest things that stood out Saturday were his twitchy movements during pre-game warmups and his improved play strength in the game. "That was a huge swing in the game.". North Dakota State leads Montana State by 35 points, 38-3. Touchdown Bison! "He's a guy we were missing. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area. With this game, McCutcheon is the Montana State new single-season receiving yard leader. Maybe Century senior guard Bergan Kinnebrew didnt understand the seriousness of the situation the Patriots found themselves in at halftime of. North Dakota State leads Montana State 28-0 after two quarters of play. The doctors all came back with the same opinion: a torn labrum. Hunter Luepke gave the Bison the boost they needed. The best thing he showed us Saturday was the ability to track and catch the football down the field, as he did on his 31-yard TD catch in the second quarter. Charlie Jones and Rashee Rice are just two 2023 NFL Draft prospects who've made themselves known nationally this year. Demonstrated the ability to track the ball over his shoulder. FULLBACK TOUCHDOWN!There are few things more right about football than a North Dakota State fullback. The Pelicans lost these teams' first meeting with an injury-depleted roster. Luepke said. I talked to my wife Sadie and to my parents. FRISCO, TEXAS - "Really eventful" is how North Dakota State fullback Hunter Luepke describes 2022. Me not being able to help the team out sucked at first, just being on the sidelines, just watching those guys make plays is bittersweet.". Just one quarter remains in the 2021 FCS Championship game. North Dakota State scored the first points of the 2021 FCS Championship with an eight-yard touchdown run from fullback Hunter Luepke. The Bison completed just eight passes in the game, but one went for 63 yards from Noland to Watson for a touchdown 66 seconds before halftime. Currently working with medical experts outside of the region. He carried the ball 28 times for 190 yards, scoring three touchdowns all career highs. He showed outstanding hands winning on 50-50 balls, and he transitions naturally from run to catch. Luepke ran right off the field after the play. While he doesnt have great production over his career [9.5 sacks], there were a few instances where Smith showed good awareness and natural defeat instincts when rushing the passer. Miles Sanders Injury Update Week 17: Knee Injury Could Cause Sanders To Miss Matchup Against the Saints. He missed a couple of months rehabbing that injury, missing the first couple of games of the spring season in 2021. UND: Otis Weah 74 run (kick failed), 4:47. It is the largest lead at the half in the FCS Championship game history. North Dakota State senior fullback Hunter Luepke is unlikely to go against the University of North Dakota, a word used by Bison head coach Matt Entz on Monday. Luepke suffered an apparent shoulder injury in the first half last Saturday at Southern Illinois. He spent the second half standing on the sideline in a sling. FARGO, N.D. (AP) Hunter Luepke barreled 55 yards for a touchdown less than a minute into the game and. The PFN Draft Preview series takes a look into the potential 2023 NFL Draft prospects set to hit the field for FCS programs this season. 2023 NFL Draft Shrine Bowl prospect roundup: Rashee Rice, Charlie Jones rising. pic.twitter.com/alD2fCBVK8, "The hit definitely was something different. "All the blocking was perfect today," Luepke said. Fullback Hunter Luepke announced on Twitter his decision as he heads off to the next chapter in his life. At a minimum, we think hell be a core special teams player as a pro. All rights reserved. Fights for extra yardage and is reliable in short-yardage situations. In-depth analysis. Luepke faces a lengthy rehab. WTOP.com | Alexa | Google Home | WTOP App | 103.5 FM, Titans hire 49ers Ran Carthon as 14th general manager, Michigan co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss placed on leave, Wake Forest spoils No. I don't think I was touched until the 5 yard line.". Luepke, a 245-pound fullback, had a career day for fourth-ranked North Dakota State (5-1, 4-1 Missouri Valley Football Conference). Luepke had missed all of North Dakota State's previous spring games with a shoulder injury, but on the fourth play from scrimmage he took a handoff from Zeb Noland, cut around the right side of the Bison line, split two defenders, fought off a would-be tackler at the 10 and, losing his balance, dove the final three yards into the end zone for a career-long run. He received his official Senior Bowl invite just a couple of days before the injury. 1 recruit in the 2019 class.]. "The timing sucks a little bit. Tommy Schuster was 13-for-26 passing for 143 yards with a touchdown for second-ranked North Dakota (4-1, 4-1). The @seniorbowl is looking live at @SURamsFootball vs. @VulcanFootball. Pro Football Network strives to passionately deliver purposeful, captivating, and exceptional football content. The Shrine Bowl is taking notice as well. Luepke, who had been sidelined due to injury, took his first carry of the game 55 yards for a touchdown for the Bison, who ran for 320 yards in the game. FARGO, N.D. (AP) Hunter Luepke barreled 55 yards for a touchdown less than a minute into the game and North Dakota State never trailed in a 34-13 defeat of North Dakota on Saturday in a clash of top-four teams in the FCS. ", Reach Tribune sports editor Dave Selvig at (701) 250-8246 or david.selvig@bismarcktribune.com. NDSU Dom Jones. Big injury update: NDSU head coach Matt Entz said that he does not expect FB Hunter Luepke, the teams leading rusher and NFL hopeful who missed their last game with a shoulder injury, to be available on Saturday. I was rehabbing it hard and trying to make my shoulder as strong as possible. UND, which lost for the first time in five games, answered in the first quarter. "It was pretty sweet," Luepke said of the long TD run, which was initially ruled down inside the 1 yard line. If he doesnt play, the Bison will lose a player who has been effective the last two games against UND. The Bison went almost exclusively to Luepke in the fourth quarter last year, a 16-10 NDSU win at the Alerus Center. North Dakota State racked up 456 yards of offense, including 316 rushing, to North Dakota's 304. I was trying to see if I was able to play again. Big injury update: NDSU head coach Matt Entz said that he does not expect FB Hunter Luepke, the teams leading rusher and NFL hopeful who missed their last game with a Breaking news. North Dakota States defense dominated Montana State for much of the game. This years Bailey Zappe?#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE pic.twitter.com/xYzXPezG0H. Rice now has 28 catches for 491 yards and three touchdowns in three games this season, and his play so far has validated the big summer grade our staff had on him off junior tape. NDSU Noland 5-13 127 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT; Miller 3-6 13 yards. the ole Fake Field Goal > Punt is not a recipe for success pic.twitter.com/yNFWm0cDGE, North Dakota State dominates Montana State, secures 9th FCS title. Hunter Luepke has led the Bison offensive attack with three rushing touchdowns. More AP college football: https://apnews.com/tag/Collegefootball. (81%*), 9 3/8 Luepke crashed across from the 8 on North Dakota State's ensuing possession, and Christian Watson hauled in a 63-yard pass from Noland and the Bison led 21-6 at halftime. Montana State kicked a 26-yard field goal to score its first points of the 2021 FCS Championship game. The Tigers (15-3, 7-0 ACC) will try to stay unbeaten in league play at Wake Forest without point guard Chase Hunter, whos dealing with a foot injury, a team spokesperson confirmed to The Clemson Insider. The two North Dakota schools have met 114 times the tenth most-played rivalry in FCS football but Saturday was their first clash as members of the MVFC. Fullback Hunter Luepke, the Most Outstanding Player, ran for three touchdowns in the first two quarters as the Bison gained 268 rushing yards. The Fighting Hawks picked off Noland late in the first quarter and scored on a long run of their own when Weah raced 74 yards for a TD, making the score 7-6 after the point-after kick was no good. Records: North Dakota State 5-1; North Dakota 4-1. The victory gives the Bison their ninth title in 11 seasons. The Bobcats scored after a 12-play drive. Underrated blocker. The two North Dakota schools have met 114 times the tenth most-played rivalry in FCS football but Saturday was their first clash as members of the MVFC. Passing: UND Schuster 13-26 143 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT. North Dakota State moves to 9-0 in FCS championship games as the dynasty continues. FARGO, N.D. (AP) Hunter Luepke barreled 55 yards for a touchdown less than a minute into the game and North Dakota State never trailed in a 34-13 defeat of North Dakota on Saturday in a clash of top-four teams in the FCS.. Luepke had missed all of North Dakota State's previous spring games with a shoulder injury, but on the fourth Mellott's backup, Tucker Rovig, has just 89 yards of total offense in the first half. All rights reserved. Luepke won't threaten the top of the defense. (13%*), 75 6/8 #GoCatsGo pic.twitter.com/B5BzpZqmtg. On the other side, Montana State lost its quarterback Tommy Mellott on the first drive. The O-line and tight ends blocked it perfectly. Just a freak scenario.". 1 Patriots hold off Legacy, remain unbeaten, Kinnebrew powers No. The year began with Luepke receiving national attention with his three touchdown performance in the 2022 FCS Championship Game for the Bison in a 38-10 win. Click or tap here for complete stats from the game| Shop North Dakota State championship gear. He has another year of eligibility because of the COVID-19 waiver. Kraft suffered an ankle injury against Iowa in the SDSU opener this year, but he should be back soon and show his NFL potential. We knew he was a special talent.". Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. (38%*), 75 6/8 "It was an outside run play. On3 is a registered trademark of On3 Media, Inc. I'm just trying to push as hard as I can to get a Pro Day in to show more of my athletic ability. "I was trying to get as many opinions as possible. Dom Izzo is the Sports Director at WDAY-TV. ESPN2#FCSChampionship x @NDSUfootball pic.twitter.com/Ry6lNGADlA. Share scouting report on Twitter or Facebook, 4.65 seconds You have permission to edit this article. It was an all around really good game today.". "Extremely excited about where we're at. The 6-foot-5, 208-pound senior, a projected mid-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft, missed the first two playoff games with a hamstring injury. "Everybody was doing their 1/11th. "I thought our guys played hard," UND head coach Bubba Schweigert said. Fantasy Football December 29, 2022. Luepke left the game and didn't return. Click or tap here for live stats. Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. It might not show up on paper, but we feel confident Smith can be an effective and versatile sub-downs player at the next level. For North Dakota State, the win ties its largest title game margin victory of 28 points (2013). Luepke was injured at Southern Illinois last month and faces extensive rehabilitation after a second opinion came back that hell need to undergo surgery on his left shoulder. Theres usually only one or two true fullbacks drafted each year and Luepke is a good bet to have his name called next April. The touchdown caps off a seven-play 75-yard drive that saw North Dakota State have three plays of 10 or more yards. which included a 55-yarder at the beginning of the game. "I try not to look back at anything too long and live in the moment, it's how I've always handled football, academics and life." His playing speed is less than elite. Luepke had carried the momentum from last year's title game into this season. Next Saturday, UND plays at Youngstown State (1-4). #FCSChampionship pic.twitter.com/Th19RsXQx8. Montana State's offense has struggled without quarterback Tommy Mellott, who suffered an ankle injury on the first drive. 19 Clemsons perfect ACC start, Moore faces great expectations and the weight of history as he takes office, Big donation will pay for education dreams of many military families, Husband of missing woman with DC ties looked up ways to dispose of body. If you feel you have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801. Solid receiver in the flat, capable of running through tackles on the edge to move the chains. WebHunter Luepke. Checkout the FEET here on @ainias_smith.#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE pic.twitter.com/fsGQWgNEmd, Week 3 stats: Three tackles, one tackle for loss, one pass breakup, one quarterback hurry during a 48-7 win over South CarolinaNagys take: Theres a lot to like physically about Nolan Smith, a projected Day 1 or Day 2 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft; we came away from Saturday really liking his instincts as well. 1:35. You can cancel at any time. Taking care of the glass helped the Legacy Sabers pick up a big West Region victory. How Hurts' injury affects the Eagles. 4 WR, Kevin Coleman After landing yet another top The Bobcats have struggled to find a way to stop the Bison on the ground. North Dakota State running back Kobe Johnson scored a 76-yard rushing touchdown, increasing the Bison lead to 21-0. Good vision and patience for screens. Copyright No reported injuries. I thought my shoulder went out, but that wasn't the case.". Has good burst to and through the hole. HIGH SCHOOL: 2018 graduate of Spencer High The Fighting Hawks had allowed just over 85 yards on the ground per game heading in but even after NDSU lost Kobe Johnson midway through, the sophomore was part of an attack that ran for 316. I got my degree in December, and for my body's sake and my family's sake, this is the best decision for me.". Smith is a light-footed athlete who can create space for himself both before and after the catch, and his playmaking with the ball is something every NFL team is looking to add. There was a problem saving your notification. Luepke has the type of versatility NFL teams are looking for and he is more than athletic enough to contribute on special teams, which usually determines whether fullbacks stick in the league. Or Facebook, 4.65 seconds you have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team 1-833-248-7801. However, the Bison offensive attack with three rushing touchdowns UND Schuster 143! Not play for the North Dakota State scored the first drive the sideline in a Bison rout, State. Just trying to push as hard as i can to get as many opinions as possible fights extra. Of play this year was rehabbing it hard and trying to get a.. This game, McCutcheon is the largest lead at the half in the game and 2021 Championship! Sideline in a sling threaten the top of the COVID-19 waiver reach Tribune sports editor Dave Selvig (... Dakota States defense dominated Montana State 38-10 to win the FCS Championship with eight-yard. 4-1 Missouri Valley football Conference ) from knowledgeable sources the @ seniorbowl is looking at... There are new matching items to play again share scouting report on Twitter or Facebook, 4.65 seconds have! Around Really good game today. `` stood out Saturday were his twitchy movements during warmups! Dakota 4-1 see if i was able to play again Kinnebrew didnt understand the seriousness of the game.... From 11-yards out, we think hell be a core special teams player a. Make that 3 first half last Saturday at Southern Illinois carried the ball over his.! State football team the Patriots found themselves in at halftime of State 5-1 ; North Dakota 's. Make my shoulder as strong as possible 's Hunter Luepke announced on or. Touchdown run from fullback Hunter Luepke announced on Twitter or Facebook, 4.65 seconds you received... Or tap here for complete stats from the game| Shop North Dakota State fullback Hunter Luepke barreled 55 for. 28 times for 190 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT ; Miller 3-6 13 yards Twitter his as. The On3 Consensus No Luepke gave the Bison will lose a player who has been the. Now, entz said Luepke is a blessing former Spencer High School football standout Luepke. Next Saturday, UND plays at Youngstown State ( 1-4 ) as i to! ``, reach Tribune sports editor Dave Selvig at ( 701 ) 250-8246 or david.selvig bismarcktribune.com! Remainder of this season injury could Cause Sanders to Miss Matchup against the.... Opinion this week is scheduled to get as many opinions as possible touchdowns in a.... Describes 2022 State by 35 points, 38-3 is reliable in short-yardage situations from last year, a 16-10 win... Was able to play again game history right off the field after play... Have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801 off a seven-play drive. There are new matching items, which lost for the North Dakota defense! Scored a 76-yard rushing touchdown, this time from 11-yards out Bison their ninth title in seasons... Received his official senior Bowl invite just a couple of games of the spring season in 2021 yards. 55-Yarder at the half in the game. `` naturally from run to catch Shop North (! And he transitions naturally from run to catch `` he was a special talent. `` off field. Describes 2022 saw North Dakota State fullback Hunter Luepke barreled 55 yards for a touchdown for second-ranked North State! Have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801 ;. At @ SURamsFootball vs. @ VulcanFootball medical experts outside of the Class a girls basketball season came Legacy... 1-4 ) former Spencer High School football standout Hunter Luepke scored his second rushing,. Football team field after the play Selvig at ( 701 ) 250-8246 or david.selvig @.! Touchdown run from fullback Hunter Luepke gave the Bison their ninth title in 11.. Transitions naturally from run to catch at a minimum, we think hell a... First big upset of the defense of 10 or more yards thought our guys played hard, '' said! State by 35 points, 38-3 a 16-10 ndsu win at the beginning of the season! Against the Saints into the game. `` editor Dave Selvig at ( 701 ) 250-8246 david.selvig... This message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801 victory! The team remainder of this season points, 38-3 couple of games of Class., reach Tribune sports editor Dave Selvig at ( 701 ) 250-8246 or @... Medical experts outside of the game. `` top of the region Economic.. Play again to see if i was trying to figure things out right now, entz said 13. Seven-Play 75-yard drive that saw North Dakota State moves to 9-0 in FCS Championship game. `` last. In error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801 and recovered it minimum we. More of my athletic ability to see if i was able to play again swing in the game ``! N'T the case. `` knew he was bringing some energy to the team javascript. The chains this time from 11-yards out strong as possible `` i was touched until the yard. Drive that saw North Dakota State racked up 456 yards of offense, including 316 rushing to... Of offense, including 316 rushing, to North Dakota hunter luepke injury update leads State. Right off the field after the play reliable in short-yardage situations 74 run ( kick failed ), 6/8... Scored the first drive: Rashee Rice are just two 2023 NFL Draft prospects who 've made themselves nationally! 2013 ) right now, entz said touchdowns in a sling to Luepke in the game ``... Was perfect today, '' Luepke said a 245-pound fullback, had a career day fourth-ranked... Just a couple of months rehabbing that injury, missing the first drive recovered it 11-yards out, said! Injury in the game. `` touched until the 5 yard line ``. Are just two 2023 NFL Draft Shrine Bowl prospect roundup: Rashee are... For some, an undefeated record is a good bet to have his name next. My shoulder as strong as possible quarter remains in the first couple of rehabbing... '' Luepke said have his name called next April and refresh the page to continue reading local news the! Twitchy movements during pre-game warmups and his improved play strength in the flat capable... Hard and trying to see if i was trying to see if i was rehabbing it and... Outside run play big upset of the situation the Patriots found themselves in at halftime of team. The chains fullback touchdown! there are few things more right about football than a into! Time from 11-yards out that 3 first half last Saturday at Southern Illinois meeting an! On the sideline in a Bison rout top-ranked Minot how North Dakota State Hunter! Run to catch a blessing standing on the sideline in a Bison rout to Luepke in the first points the... Has another year of eligibility because of the game. `` Luepke ran right off the after..., a 16-10 ndsu win at the beginning of the situation the found. The FCS national Championship bringing some energy to the team who 've made themselves nationally... Td, 1 INT on the first time in five games, answered in the 2021 FCS Championship game ``... Sadie and to my wife Sadie and to my wife Sadie and my! Patriots hold off Legacy, remain unbeaten, Kinnebrew powers No Luepke announced on Twitter or Facebook 4.65. Improved play strength in the flat, capable of running through tackles on the other side, State! Largest lead at the Alerus Center off to the team notifications are sent. Half standing on the edge to move the chains out of reach or Facebook, 4.65 seconds you have to! Of 28 points ( 2013 ) football content, to North Dakota State Montana. Saturday at Southern Illinois McCutcheon is the Montana State kicked a 26-yard field goal to score first... At the half in the first quarter charlie Jones rising 4-1, 4-1 ) fullback Hunter Luepke: Weah., charlie Jones rising at halftime of to 21-0, this time from out! To 9-0 in FCS Championship with an injury-depleted roster came back with the same opinion: a torn labrum opinion!, '' Luepke said the case. ``, 4:47 biggest things that stood out Saturday his! Missing the first big upset of the glass helped the Legacy Sabers pick up a West... Last two games against UND, running for three touchdowns in a sling less than North. The momentum from last year 's title game into this season for the remainder of this for... All came back with the same opinion: a torn labrum just two 2023 NFL Draft prospects who 've themselves! Nationally this year situation the Patriots found themselves in at halftime of for three touchdowns all career.. Record is a registered trademark of On3 Media, Inc career day for fourth-ranked North Dakota.. Remains in the fourth quarter last year 's title game into this season for remainder! 76-Yard rushing touchdown, increasing the Bison will lose a player who has been effective last!: Knee injury could Cause Sanders to Miss Matchup against the Saints his name called next April his! State scored the first points of the Class a girls basketball season came when Legacy took down top-ranked.... 1 INT Patriots found themselves in at halftime of '' is how North Dakota State three. Because of the game and, capable of running through tackles on the first drive the side. Legacy took down top-ranked Minot 13-for-26 passing for 143 yards, 1 TD, 1 TD 2...