FARGO — Cole Payton delivered a standout performance as the quarterback for North Dakota State University (NDSU), leading his team to a dominant victory over Southeast Missouri State on Saturday night. Payton completed 16 of 23 passes for an impressive 348 yards and four touchdowns, marking one of the best single-game performances by an NDSU quarterback in program history.
Cam Miller, a rookie quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders and Payton’s predecessor at NDSU, watched the game and expressed admiration for his former teammate. “He’s the best teammate I’ve ever had at any level,” Miller stated. He praised Payton not only for his skills on the field but also for his commitment to the program. “Most people in his position with his ability could have gone anywhere else and played, but he decided to stay.”
Miller’s own journey at NDSU mirrors Payton’s. Initially a backup to Quincy Patterson in 2021, Miller chose to remain with the team instead of transferring, ultimately leading NDSU to an FCS national championship. He emphasized the importance of the relationships built within the quarterback room, stating, “That was the reason for both Cole and I staying, just that we got to spend another six months together doing what we love.”
Payton’s performance not only secured a win but also etched his name into NDSU history. His 348 passing yards rank as the third-best in a single game for the program, following records set by Steve Walker with 451 yards in 2006 and Graig Gorder with 416 yards in 2002. This achievement pushes Carson Wentz’s 335 yards in 2015 to sixth place, while Trey Lance’s 313 yards is tied for ninth.
As of now, Payton has completed 39 of 55 passes this season, yielding 706 yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions. Miller’s statistics during his first three games last year are strikingly similar: 53 of 73 passes for 708 yards, five touchdowns, and no interceptions. Both quarterbacks have demonstrated impressive efficiency, with completion rates of approximately 71% for Payton and 73% for Miller.
NDSU’s offensive coordinator, Dan Larson, highlighted Payton’s growth and adaptability. “I think Cole is getting more and more comfortable every week owning that role,” Larson noted. Payton’s ability to change pass protection and call plays at the line of scrimmage shows his growing command of the offense, a responsibility that Miller excelled in during his time as the starter.
Head coach Tim Polasek echoed Larson’s sentiments, stating, “Cole has been sharp. He’s managing this outfit at a high level.” Both coaches recognize Payton’s potential to evolve further in his role, which is essential as the team prepares for upcoming conference play.
Miller, now on the Raiders’ practice squad, has transitioned to a new environment that emphasizes mental preparation. He assists starter Geno Smith by analyzing opposing defenses and making mental adjustments during practice. “It’s all mental. You have to put yourself in the game and make all the checks that Geno would make,” Miller explained.
With Payton’s recent performance, NDSU is poised for a strong season ahead. His ability to perform under pressure, especially in his first home game, has given him valuable confidence as the team looks to build on this momentum. As Miller remarked, “If he can continue to build off that, they’re going to be hard to beat.”
