Photo courtesy of Sean Arbaut Photography Minot State’s quarterback, Carson Chrisman races down the sideline against Valley City State University in the Beavers season-opening 38-7 win. Chrisman scored four rushing touchdowns in the game.

Travis Smith, Staff Writer

Carson Chrisman, the new quarterback for the Minot State Beavers, is quickly making a name for himself this season. After a standout performance against Valley City State University, where he rushed for four touchdowns, Chrisman and the Beavers continued their momentum with a thrilling win on the road against Southwest Minnesota State University.

Chrisman’s approach to the Valley City State game was focused and disciplined: “I expected us to put up great numbers with our rushing attack as a team,” Chrisman said. “Different teams will be susceptible to different plays, and it just so happened that Valley City’s defense was very susceptible to the quarterback run.” Despite his standout performance, Chrisman credited his offensive line for making his job easy. “I think two of my touchdowns, I was untouched, and that says a lot more about the other 10 guys blocking than it does about me. They made it really easy for me,” he added.

The Beavers carried their success into their next game against SMSU, with multiple players contributing to the victory. Erik Palmquist made a significant impact on the offense, scoring two rushing touchdowns that helped the Beavers maintain control of the game. Palmquist’s powerful runs added another layer to Minot State’s ground attack, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility on offense.

While the offense shined, it was the defense that stole the show against SMSU. Minot State’s defense scored four touchdowns, including two pick-sixes from Nalu Cordeiro, who added six tackles to his stat line and earned the NSIC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Chrisman continued to play a crucial role in guiding the offense, as the Beavers secured a decisive victory.

Reflecting on the team’s success this season, Head Coach Ian Shields credited the offseason work that laid the foundation. “The difference began this offseason going all the way back to Spring Ball, into our Summer training, and throughout training camp. We have better internal leadership, a healthier culture in place, and a talented and determined group of young men that plan on accomplishing something special here at Minot State,” Shields explained.

The decision to transition Chrisman from defense to quarterback was a pivotal move that is paying dividends. “Following last season, we had to find a QB with the necessary traits to run our offense efficiently,” said Shields. “We needed a competitive, tough, smart, dual-threat QB with leadership skills. Many times in this industry, you look to solve personnel problems externally, but I saw an opportunity with Carson to explore an internal option this past Spring.”

Shields’ decision has proven to be a game-changer. “He has really taken the challenge head-on and is a difference-maker for us,” Shields continued. “He’s certainly been a catalyst in many ways that’s propelled us forward offensively.”

As the Beavers prepare for their upcoming homecoming game, Chrisman’s emergence as a leader and playmaker continues to energize the Minot State offense. His dedication, combined with the contributions of teammates like Palmquist and the team’s defensive prowess, will be key factors in the Beavers’ pursuit of a successful season.