In a striking start to the 2026 college football season, South Dakota Mines achieved a historic victory with their first-ever NCAA Division I win over Drake University. On the evening of August 27, the Hardrockers emerged victorious with a nail-biting 38-35 triumph in Des Moines, Iowa.
The citizens of South Dakota can feel an immense pride in their representative team, the South Dakota Mines Hardrockers, as they opened their season with such a monumental win. This victory was particularly noteworthy as it was the Hardrockers’ first season-opening win since 2023, and their first season-opening road win since 2017. The game exhibited a gripping show of resilience and determination, marking a significant milestone for the team from Rapid City, South Dakota.
The game began with Drake taking an early 10-0 lead in the first quarter. However, the Hardrockers demonstrated their fighting spirit by staging a remarkable comeback. With 10:01 remaining in the first half, quarterback Gage Baker connected with Dawson Dunbar for a stunning 58-yard touchdown, narrowing the gap to 10-7. This pivotal moment sparked a momentum shift in favor of the South Dakota team.
- Dunbar’s exceptional performance that night included a career-high 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns, complemented by three receptions for 94 yards and an additional touchdown.
- Baker played a vital role, completing 19 of 31 passes for 306 yards and three touchdowns, marking his third career game with over 300 passing yards.
- Defensive standout Charlie Johnson led with 12 tackles, one interception, and a forced fumble, showcasing the team’s strong defensive backbone.
Dawson Dunbar leading the charge.
South Dakota Mines’ offensive strategy was executed flawlessly with contributions from Joshua Morales, who made four receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown, and Ty Harris, who added 108 rushing yards to the formidable 527 total yards of offense. This offensive powerhouse could not have been more evident than in the third quarter, where the Hardrockers pushed their lead to 31-13 following touchdowns from Morales and Blake Borchers.
Despite a fourth-quarter resurgence by Drake, who managed to score three consecutive touchdowns and take a 35-31 lead, the Hardrockers stayed composed. In a decisive final drive, the team engaged in a clock-draining 16-play series, culminating in Dunbar’s winning three-yard touchdown run. Johnson then secured the victory with a game-sealing interception in the closing moments.
This victory not only made school history but also highlighted the passion and commitment of South Dakota Mines Football within the community, building excitement as they prepare for their next game against Southwest Baptist on September 5 at O’Harra Stadium.
Gage Baker’s remarkable game leadership.
The spirit of Hardrocker football has found its way into the hearts of South Dakotans, extending beyond the field into the everyday pride of a state committed to growth and sportsmanship excellence. As the season progresses, eyes remain on South Dakota Mines to continue to defy expectations and perhaps pave the way for more student-athletes from South Dakota to shine in national athletics.
Such a momentous occasion not only emphasizes the university’s potential but reinforces the enthusiasm that surrounds collegiate sports in South Dakota. Fans and residents alike look forward with eager anticipation, ready to cheer on their local heroes to more victories.
For inquiries or further information, please contact the South Dakota Mines Athletics Department at athletics@southdakotamines.com.