Sioux Falls Defeated Southwest Minnesota State 28-14
The University of Sioux Falls football team secured a conference victory at home against Southwest Minnesota State.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Football
The University of Sioux Falls football team improved their season record to 4-3 after defeating Southwest Minnesota State 28-14. The game featured key performances from Tate Schafer and Bubba Tann as the Cougars pulled away with two fourth-quarter touchdowns.
Why it matters
The victory moves the University of Sioux Falls to 4-2 in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) play, keeping the team in the hunt within the league. The win highlights the program's ability to capitalize on field positioning during a record-setting warm day in Sioux Falls.
University of Sioux Falls quarterback Tate Schafer threw for 355 yards and three touchdowns. Bubba Tann contributed 94 rushing yards on 13 carries, while the Cougars outgained their opponents by 182 total yards.
The players
Tate Schafer
He is the starting quarterback for the University of Sioux Falls who recorded 355 passing yards in the win.
Bubba Tann
He is a running back for the University of Sioux Falls who tallied 94 rushing yards including a 63-yard touchdown.
Tommy Hoffman
He is the starting quarterback for Southwest Minnesota State who completed 17-of-36 passes in the loss.
Garret Hoffman
He is a defender for the University of Sioux Falls who recorded an interception against his brother during the game.
The details
Tate Schafer led the offense while Garret Hoffman secured an interception against his brother, Southwest Minnesota State quarterback Tommy Hoffman. Two short punts by Southwest Minnesota State into the wind allowed Sioux Falls to set up critical scoring drives late in the game.
Timeline
October 10, 2026: University of Sioux Falls defeated Southwest Minnesota State.
October 24, 2026: University of Sioux Falls hosts Minot State.
Season Trajectory
This win keeps the University of Sioux Falls in a competitive position within the NSIC standings as they reach the midway point of the season. The victory provides necessary momentum for the Cougars ahead of their upcoming home game against Minot State.
The win moves the University of Sioux Falls to a 4-2 record in conference play, directly improving their chances for a higher seed in the NSIC standings. Southwest Minnesota State falls to 1-6, significantly limiting their potential for postseason contention.
The takeaway
Effective use of favorable wind conditions allowed the Cougars to secure critical fourth-quarter scoring opportunities. Maximizing special teams advantages remains a key factor for teams looking to secure wins in conference play.
What happens next
The University of Sioux Falls is scheduled to host Minot State for their next home game on October 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current standing of the local team, visit the Football section.
