#5 Ranked Norse Set to Battle #3 NDSCS for the Title and Postseason Bowl Berth Sunday November 8 in Rochester
VIRGINIA, Minn., November 5, 2026 – The Minnesota North College – Mesabi Range football team is headed to the championship. The top-seeded and national #5-ranked Norse will face off against the #3-ranked North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Wildcats in the MCAC/Region 13 Championship Football Game on Sunday, November 8, 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:30 PM at the Rochester Regional Stadium in Rochester, MN.
The winner of this high-stakes matchup captures the conference crown and advances to postseason play. Mesabi Range (6-2, 4-1 MCAC co-champion) punched its ticket with a 62-12 semifinal win over MNC-Vermilion. Paced by 1,099-rusher Osten Jones, the Norse lead the conference in total offense, rushing/passing touchdowns, tackles, and interceptions. They look to avenge a narrow 24-21 regular-season loss to NDSCS (8-1) back on September 12.
“This is the second time in three years that we’ve been to the title game! Which is not easy to do in the NJCAA. I’m very proud of our players and coaches,” said Head Coach Tom Inforzato. “Minnesota North College – Mesabi Range and our football program provides a great environment, not just athletically, but academically! We are thankful for ALL the support across Minnesota North College as we are representing all of the campuses this weekend! Hold The Rope!”
Game Day Information:
- Location: Rochester Regional Stadium (851 30th Ave. SE, Rochester, MN).
- Schedule: Gates open at 12:00 PM; Kick-off at 1:30 PM.
- Tickets: CASH ONLY at the gate ($10 Adults, $5 Students 11–17, Free for Seniors 60+ and Children 10 and under; no cards or MCAC passes accepted).
- Livestream: Provided by RCTC Athletics on Hudl.