UND Faces Tarleton State in FCS Playoff Second Round Streaming Guide and Team Preview
North Dakota Fighting Hawks will face Tarleton State in the second round of the FCS Playoffs at noon Saturday in Stephenville, Texas. The game is streamed exclusively on ESPN+ and will not be on traditional TV. Fans can watch via ESPN's streaming platforms with a subscription to ESPN Plus, which offers various plans starting at $11.99 per month. This matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the two teams. North Dakota, with an 8-5 record, advanced after defeating Tennessee Tech 31-6, while Tarleton State, seeded No. 4 with an 11-1 record, shared the UAC title and had a first-round bye. Tarleton’s offense features a unique slow-mesh RPO style, popularized by Wake Forest, which involves a deliberate timing scheme allowing wide receivers to stretch defenses. The Texans' defense is highly opportunistic, forcing 36 turnovers this season—the most in the FCS since 2019—and boasts a top-ranked pass defense and scoring defense. Key players include Tarleton quarterback Victor Gabalis, a seasoned player with nearly 10,000 passing yards, and a deep backfield led by Tre Page III and Tylan Hines. Tarleton's top wide receivers are transfers from FBS programs, adding speed to their attack. The game will be broadcast on the Fighting Hawks Radio Network, with a pregame show starting at 11 a.m. Fans are encouraged to tune in via streaming services, as traditional TV coverage is unavailable. North Dakota is riding momentum after a strong playoff win and aims to advance further, while Tarleton State seeks to defend its home turf in a highly anticipated matchup.
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