Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

UND opens football season with 42-21 win over Long Island

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 9:17 AM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

UND opens football season with 42-21 win over Long Island

Summary

The University of North Dakota (UND) began its 2026 football season with a 42-21 victory against Long Island University at the Alerus Center on August 28. After establishing a commanding 42-0 lead in the first half, UND allowed Long Island to score 21 points in the second half with backup players on the field. Sam Strandell made a notable 1-yard reception, while Jonnie Wiltshire recorded a key interception. Head coach Eric Schmidt praised the team's health and emphasized the importance of player safety with a comfortable lead. Kicking remains a concern as new punter Luke Silvernale had a missed field goal attempt but performed well punting.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•UND built a 42-0 lead before Long Island scored.
•Sam Strandell made a significant catch before halftime.
•Jonnie Wiltshire contributed with a second-quarter interception.
•Braden Mohr recorded 1.5 sacks in his return from injury.
•Luke Silvernale had a missed field goal but averaged 51 yards on punts.

Latest Updates

9:17 AMYahoo Sports — 5 things you might've missed in UND's 42-21 win over Long Island

What they're saying

"
Aug. 28—GRAND FORKS — UND's 2026 season opener started with a dominant first half, followed by a sleepy second half as the Fighting Hawks built a 42-0 lead and beat Long Island University 42-21 in front of 10,344 fans at the Alerus Center. Here are five things you might not have noticed during the game. UND wide receiver Sam Strandell, a two-time captain from Grand Forks Central, hauled in one ...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Football