Box Elder, S.D. — The Mitchell Kernels opened their 2025 football season shutting out Douglas 57–0 on the road in a dominant all-around performance at Patriot Stadium.
Behind an impressive ground game and a suffocating defense, the Kernels (1–0) controlled every facet of the game, racing out to a 44–0 halftime lead, ending a 15-game losing streak away from home.
Ground Game Powers Early Lead
Mitchell wasted little time setting the tone. On their second drive of the game, senior Kaiden Allen broke free for a 25-yard touchdown run, and the rout was on. Moments later, quarterback Jaxson Hartman found a seam and sprinted 45 yards to the end zone.
Logan Bessler capped the first-quarter scoring with an 8-yard touchdown run to make it 21–0 after one quarter.
In the second quarter, the defense joined the party. Senior linebacker Colton Smith jumped a route and returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown. On the next series, Bessler added his second rushing score of the night. A safety and a 16-yard touchdown run from sophomore Luke LeBrun sent the Kernels into halftime with a 44-point cushion.
Second Half, Same Story
With the starters resting in the second half, Mitchell’s depth showed its strength. Sophomore Nolan Widstrom broke loose for a 44-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, and backup quarterback Brady Hoesing connected with Ethan Plamp for a 13-yard pass to close the scoring.
Defensive Domination
While the offense piled up 57 points, Mitchell’s defense was arguably more impressive. The Kernels allowed just 16 total yards of offense and held Douglas to minus-8 rushing yards.
Smith finished with two interceptions and a sack. Defensive lineman Rocky Clark anchored the front, tallying 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
Looking Ahead
The win gives Mitchell momentum heading into next week’s highly anticipated Kernel Bowl matchup against Brookings. The annual showdown is set for Saturday, Sept. 6, at Joe Quintal Field. No. 3 ranked Bobcats lost at Sturgis on Friday 26-21.