FARGO, N.D. -- Mikael Cooper-Falls rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown to lead Missouri State to a 21-17 victory over North Dakota State Saturday.
The Bison (1-7, 0-5 Missouri Valley) are off to their worst start since 1962, when they finished 0-10.
The Bears (5-3, 3-2) rushed for a season-high 225 yards. They entered the game averaging 105 yards on the ground.
Cooper-Falls, averaging 36 yards a game entering Saturday, scored on a 57-yard run on the second play of the third quarter to give Missouri State a 21-14 lead.
Cody Kirby completed 9 of 12 passes for 104 yards and a touchdown for the Bears. Kirby also ran for a touchdown.
Pat Paschall ran for 148 yards and a touchdown for the Bison, but lost a fumble at the Missouri State 1-yard line late in the game.