The lights will be on, the crowd will be ready, and the Marauders will have an opportunity to make an early statement when the University of Mary hosts No. 4 Minnesota State University, Mankato on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Central Time in Bismarck. With Family Weekend and Operation White Out setting the stage, this Week 1 matchup promises the kind of atmosphere that brings alumni, families, supporters, and the next generation of Marauders together.

For the Marauders, the home opener comes with momentum.

University of Mary opened the season with a 23-10 non-conference victory over Rocky Mountain College in Glendive, Montana. It was a disciplined and determined performance on both sides of the ball. Karsyn Jablonski led the offense with eight catches for 91 yards and two touchdowns, scoring the first and last touchdowns of the game. Quarterback Ryan Blair was efficient and composed, completing 21 of 31 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. On the ground, Carl Henry added 51 rushing yards on nine carries as the Marauders produced timely offense throughout the evening.

Just as important, the Marauders showed resolve on defense. Travis Biery delivered a dominant effort up front with three sacks, two hurries, and a forced fumble. Christopher Federico led the defensive charge with 13 total tackles, while the unit as a whole limited Rocky Mountain to 267 total yards and recorded five sacks. When the game tightened in the second half, the Marauders responded with physical football, key stops, and the kind of finish that reflects a team playing with confidence and accountability.

That performance now leads into a significant challenge.

Minnesota State enters the matchup after a 38-14 season-opening win over Colorado Mesa. The Mavericks showed why they opened the year ranked among the nation’s best. They piled up 426 total yards, including 299 passing yards and 127 rushing yards, while also receiving strong defensive play in the second half.

Wide receiver Jackson Owens made an immediate impact for Minnesota State, catching five passes for 137 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterbacks Maximus Sims and Mitchell Thompson split duties effectively, combining for 299 passing yards and three touchdown passes. The Mavericks also found balance in the run game and forced game-changing turnovers on defense, turning momentum in their favor when Colorado Mesa threatened to close the gap.

From the outside, this matchup presents a clear contrast. Minnesota State arrives with national recognition and offensive firepower. The Marauders counter with a confident start, a home crowd, and a defense that showed it can change a game through pressure, discipline, and effort.

For University of Mary, the opportunity is clear. The Marauders must control the line of scrimmage, remain efficient on offense, and continue the aggressive defensive play that carried them in the opener. Protecting the football will matter. Field position will matter. Finishing drives and sustaining energy for four quarters will matter even more against a ranked opponent.

Yet this game is about more than rankings and statistics. It is also about community, pride, and the experience of game day in Bismarck. Family Weekend and Operation White Out create the kind of setting that reflects what Marauder football can mean across generations. Alumni, supporters, students, and families will all have a role in building that atmosphere.

This is the kind of night that strengthens legacy.

The Marauders have already shown they can respond under pressure. Now they return home with a chance to measure themselves against one of the top programs in Division II football. It will take toughness, discipline, and belief, but the opportunity in front of them is undeniable.

Wear white. Bring your family. Raise your voice. Stand with the Marauders as they take the field in Bismarck for a Week 1 showdown that promises intensity, pride, and a memorable night under the lights.

Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. Central Time
Matchup: Minnesota State University, Mankato vs. University of Mary
Theme: Family Weekend | Operation White Out

*Not an Official Organization of the University of Mary.