DULUTH — No. 13 Minnesota Duluth inched closer towards its first NCAA tournament appearance since 2021 after defeating upset-minded Bemidji State 42-28 on Saturday at Malosky Stadium.

The Senior Day victory provides a clear path towards an NCAA tournament bid if the Bulldogs win their next game, at Minot State.

“In my time here it’s always been up in the air, and usually we’re just (the last) team out or a couple teams out,” said quarterback Kyle Walljasper. “So to be able to know that if we win this next game we’re probably going to be in here is an awesome feeling.”

In addition, Minnesota State Mankato thumped Augustana 45-21 in Sioux Falls, meaning UMD (9-1, 8-1 NSIC) would be at least Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference co-champions if they win next week, and potentially host a

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