Spearfish, SD. - The SBU football team began their season today as they traveled to South Dakota to take on Black Hills State. They fell to the Yellow Jackets by a final score of 14-24 moving to 0-1 on the season.

The Bearcats struck first on the first play of the game with Calvin Griffin Jr.'s electrifying 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. SBU's offense was led by Collin Sutton, who showcased his passing skills with 264 yards and 1 touchdown. Regan Wilson stood out in receiving, amassing 104 yards off eight receptions. Jordan Kent received the sole touchdown reception of the game off a 39-yard catch, with 58 total receiving yards.

The Bearcat defense kept the Yellow Jackets defense at bay for the first 27 minutes of the game not allowing a score. Throughout the game, Levi Korir and Jahaad Fort combined for five total breakups. Senior Kellen Curtis led the team in tackles with five total, four of those being solo. Behind him four other Bearcats tagged along four tackles including Korir, Jake Landers, Omari Oggs, and Caleb Saner.

The Bearcats will now head back home to compete at Plaster Stadium three straight weekends in a row. This home stretch begins Saturday, September 14th, as they host Oklahoma Panhandle State University. The last matchup between these two teams led to a 65-7 victory for Southwest Baptist. Bearcat football will look to build off the momentum from last year with a kickoff at 6pm. After the game there will be fireworks for all Bearcat fans to enjoy.