August 28, 2026 · Football · WDA Sports
MANDAN - Mandan's offense erupted for 27-first half points en route to a 33-13 season-opening win over Fargo North on Aug. 28 at Starion Sports Complex.
Braves quarterback Cole Carlson completed 5 of 9 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown. The Braves' ground game was led by Brandon Baker, who rushed for 65 yards on 14 carries, while Tate Sayler added 64 yards and a touchdown on five carries. Mandan's rushing attack amassed 271 yards on 49 carries.
The Braves' defense also made a significant impact, highlighted by Daniel Wentz's 67-yard interception return for a touchdown. Fargo North got on the board in the third quarter on Elijah Enger's 32-yard run. Noah Olheiser reeled in a 52-yard pass from Drew Kalbus in the fourth quarter, but the outcome was all but decided. The win evened the all-time series between the teams at five wins.
Fargo North will look to bounce back against Bismarck on September 4, while Mandan prepares to face Fargo Shanley, who also holds a 1-0 record, on the same day.
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Final | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo North | 0 | 0 | 6 | 7 | 13 |
| Mandan | 13 | 14 | 6 | 0 | 33 |
| Qtr | Team | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Mandan | Pauley Brownotter 37-yard reception from Cole Carlson; PAT no good |
| 1st | Mandan | Ivan Hopfauf 14-yard reception from Carlson; PAT no good |
| 2nd | Mandan | Dan Wentz 67-yard interception return; Heck kick |
| 2nd | Mandan | Jackson Drengson 2-yard run; Heck kick |
| 3rd | Fargo North | Elijah Enger 32-yard run; PAT no good |
| 3rd | Mandan | Tate Sayler 3-yard run; PAT no good |
| 4th | Fargo North | Noah Olheiser 52-yard pass reception from Drew Kalbus; Connor Amundson kick |