NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The North Dakota State football team scored on all six of its first-half possessions and rolled to a 59-3 win over Tennessee State on Saturday, Sept. 6, before a crowd of 8,569 at Nissan Stadium.

NDSU running back Barika Kpeenu scored three first-half touchdowns and finished with a team-high 10 carries and 57 yards on the ground for the Bison, who improved to 2-0 heading into next Saturday's home opener against Southeast Missouri State.

The Bison defense had eight tackles for loss including one sack by defensive end Toby Anene. He added another quarterback hurry that led to an interception by linebacker Donovan Woolen, whose 34-yard touchdown return helped the Bison build a 45-0 lead before halftime.

NDSU held Tennessee State to four first downs – all in the final quarter-and-a-half.

Defensive tackle Zach Vanderpool and defensive end Chance Symons led the Bison with four tackles apiece. Vanderpool had a forced fumble that was recovered by safety Taylen Eady.

Nine different receivers caught passes for NDSU led by RaJa Nelson, Bryce Lance and Finn Diggins with three receptions each. Quarterback Cole Payton was 13 of 16 passing for 166 yards and one touchdown.