FARGO — The North Dakota State University Bison returned to form on Saturday, October 14, 2023, with a commanding 48-16 victory over Northern Iowa in Missouri Valley Football Conference play. The standout duo of quarterback Cole Payton and senior wide receiver Bryce Lance showcased their skills, contributing significantly to the team’s performance at Gate City Bank Field in the Fargodome.
Payton executed a near-perfect game, completing 15 of 17 passes while also making an impact on the ground with 74 rushing yards, including a stunning 64-yard touchdown run. Lance, targeted early and often, caught seven passes in the first half alone, signaling a decisive strategy from the Bison coaching staff. The team quickly established control of the game, taking a 21-2 lead by the end of the second quarter.
Lance’s impressive performance marked a return to form after a quieter outing the previous week against the University of North Dakota, where he managed only three receptions. “We dialed up some plays for him today, especially in the red zone that worked well,” Payton noted. “It was fun to find ways to get No. 5 open and make those plays when the opportunity presented itself.”
Payton’s connection with Lance was particularly noteworthy, as they executed a 51-yard pass that set up a touchdown just five plays later. This play not only highlighted Lance’s speed and agility but also showcased Payton’s ability to read defenses and deliver the ball accurately. “Good for sure, it was a good play and Cole got me the ball,” Lance said. “It’s nice to score.”
Lance’s return to form is timely, as the FCS playoffs loom on the horizon. Last season, he was a dominant force in the postseason, gathering 25 receptions for 475 yards across four games, including nine catches for 170 yards in the championship against Montana State. With his season-high of eight receptions against Northern Iowa, Lance appears poised to regain that form as the Bison prepare for the upcoming playoff challenges.
Bison head coach Tim Polasek expressed his belief in the need for Lance to receive consistent targets, stating, “Bryce needs to get targeted at least five times a game, and I think we can go more.” As the game progressed and the Bison led 38-2 at the start of the second half, the coaching staff opted to dial down their offensive strategy, focusing instead on maintaining their lead.
Looking ahead, the Bison will face the University of St. Thomas in a nonconference matchup next week. With their Missouri Valley schedule completed, the focus will shift towards the playoffs. The combination of Payton and Lance will likely be central to their strategy as they aim for success in the postseason. “It generates good feelings,” Polasek said regarding targeting Lance, suggesting the team’s confidence in their key players as they enter this critical phase of the season.
