Coming off a first-round bye, host Minnesota State Mankato got off to a slow start on Saturday.
But the Mavericks, whose first five drives ended in punts, scored 17 points in the second quarter and went on to defeat Colorado State-Pueblo 24-10 in the second round of the Division II playoffs.
In the national quarterfinals, the Mavericks (12-0) will host Tarleton State at noon next Saturday. Tarleton State defeated defending Division II champion Texas A&M-Commerce 34-28 on Saturday.
Ryan Schlichte and J.D. Ekowa each threw a TD pass in the final 10 minutes of the first half as the Mavericks opened a 17-0 halftime lead. The Mavericks extended the lead to 24-0 early in the third quarter.
The ThunderWolves (11-2) pulled within 24-10 with two minutes left in the third quarter, but the Mavericks intercepted two passes in the fourth quarter to hold on.
Nate Gunn rushed for 114 yards and a TD to lead the Mavericks.
News Services
StarTribune.com welcomes and encourages readers to comment and engage in substantive, mutually respectful exchanges over news topics. Commenters must follow our Terms of Use.
Comments will be reviewed before being published.