In an impressive display of offensive prowess, the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) claimed a decisive 54-32 victory over the University of Mary (UMary) on October 28, 2023, at Malosky Stadium. Quarterback Kyle Walljasper set a new career record with six touchdown passes, four of which were caught by tight end Luke Dehnicke, who also achieved a personal best with 230 receiving yards.
Head coach Curt Wiese praised the team’s strategy, stating, “We knew we had some stuff dialed up to be able to get Luke the football. I don’t know if we knew he was going to have quite the game that he did, but credit’s got to go to everybody on the offensive side.” This performance came after a disappointing loss to Northern State, and the Bulldogs were determined to make a statement on their home turf.
The Marauders opened the scoring early with a 43-yard field goal from Jack Henninger, setting the stage for an offensive showdown. Walljasper responded swiftly, connecting with Dehnicke for a 75-yard touchdown pass, marking the longest throw of the season for the quarterback. Dehnicke then converted a two-point attempt, putting UMD ahead 8-3.
UMary’s offense quickly countered, demonstrating their capability to move the ball effectively against the Bulldogs’ defense. Quarterback Jordan Polo Solomon orchestrated a response with a 44-yard completion to Xavier Brackenridge, allowing the Marauders to regain the lead at 11-8. The first half showcased a back-and-forth exchange, with UMary ending the half with 229 passing yards while the Bulldogs struggled defensively.
After a missed opportunity due to a fumble, UMD struck again early in the second quarter with a 27-yard touchdown pass to running back Francis O’Malley. The momentum shifted further in the Bulldogs’ favor when Luke Humbert intercepted a pass, setting up Dehnicke for another touchdown, extending the lead to 23-11.
Wiese noted the importance of defensive adjustments, saying, “I thought we were out of position a little bit defensively, and again, I think you have to give credit to Mary. I thought they took advantage of some underneath coverage and continued to be able to move the football.” Despite this, UMD’s defense tightened, forcing a turnover on downs that allowed the Bulldogs to capitalize with a three-yard touchdown catch by DaShaun Ames.
As the game progressed, UMD’s offense continued to dominate. Dehnicke’s fourth touchdown of the game capped a strong performance by Walljasper, who exited the game with a commanding score of 50-18. UMary managed a late touchdown, but the outcome was clear.
The Bulldogs improved their season record to 7-1 and 6-1 in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Looking ahead, Walljasper emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum in the upcoming match against the Jimmies in Jamestown, North Dakota, on November 1. “We have a three-game season left, and if we win all those, we should have a good shot at playoffs,” he stated, reinforcing the team’s focus on postseason aspirations.
With players like Walljasper and Dehnicke leading the charge, UMD aims to continue their strong performance as the season progresses.
