MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — I have always been fascinated by sports. The main reason why I love sports so much stems from my belief about sports being much more than just a game.

In these events, one team wins and the other loses. Sometimes there are ties, but those are the only constants. Everything else is radically different from contest to contest.

Within those differences are stories bursting to be told.

I will remember Aug. 31, 2019, for the rest of my life. I seized the unique opportunity to travel to Minneapolis, Minnesota, for the Butler-North Dakota State football game.

I started looking forward to this game many months ago. I hoped to attend the spectacle, but I had no idea what would await me.

At Target Field, different segments of my life intersected.

I graduated from Butler in May, so I watched old friends compete on the gridiron. Over time, some of those friends felt like extended family members.

Now, I’m living in Bison territory since joining the Minot Daily News as a sports reporter in July.

I watched NDSU, the cream of the FCS crop, take the field with over 34,000 fans roaring behind them. It was a marvel to witness. I will never forget that unbridled passion and enthusiasm.

I had the chance to speak with Minot High activities director Mitch Lunde over the past few weeks. While we explored the “Magic Carpet” turf at Duane Carlson Stadium, he told me the game would be an unforgettable experience.

That was correct.

The final score was 57-10. NDSU quarterback Trey Lance tossed four touchdowns and ran for two more. The guys in green and gold made everything look too easy.

On Sunday, I picked up a copy of the Fargo Forum. The front-page headline read, “No tailgating, no problem.”

When I reflect on this game 10 years from now, I will remember the little moments more than the final score.

I’ll remember all the Butler fans and alumni gathering for a “family photo” at Brit’s Pub, a small but mighty pack of Bulldogs coming together.

I’ll remember a woman asking our group if we came from Butler, Pennsylvania. That made me smile. No, ma’am, Butler University is in Indianapolis.

I’ll remember walking toward the field and hearing some of the most heartwarming words.

“We love you guys, Butler! You guys have a great basketball team! We hate Duke, too!” Sentiments expressed by a man clad in green and gold from head to toe, a hardcore Bison fan indeed.

My worlds collided.

As if going to the game wasn’t fun enough, Butler associate athletic director Ken LaRose asked me if I wanted a sideline pass for the game. Absolutely.

I planned on going to the game as a Butler alum, to see the sights and have a good time. But, I also had the chance to capture photos and videos on my cell phone, which are memories the Butler football family will have forever.

I covered the Bulldogs for four years. My most breathtaking experience happened as a young alumnus.

I think that is quite special.

I’m no expert, but I would be a fool if I didn’t think the Bison will take care of business again this year. Those athletes are the real deal.

It was an honor to witness everything NDSU brought to the ballpark. I have a great deal of respect for the Bison fans and community.

Butler was overpowered, but the Bulldogs still enjoyed an incredible experience. Spending the day with that crew was nothing short of spectacular.

When the infield dust settled, NDSU walked away as the winner. After witnessing history, I believe every person in that stadium was a winner because it was more than just a game.

This is the opinion of Jimmy Lafakis. He covers Minot High School sports and Class B high school sports. Follow him on Twitter @JJLII30.