A pair of local college football stars will be playing in a postseason All-Star Game called the American Bowl. Minnesota State University Moorhead quarterback, Jack Strand, and North Dakota State running back, Barika Kpeenu have both accepted invites to play in the game. Both athletes have confirmed their participation in the game on their social media accounts.
Strand, a native of Bloomer, Wisconsin, has spent the past four seasons with the Dragons breaking numerous program and conference records along the way. Over his 42 games, Strand has totaled 13,161 yards passing along with 126 passing touchdowns. Additionally, he has added nine rushing touchdowns. In 2025, Strand passed for 3,546 yards along with career-highs in passing touchdowns (42) and rushing touchdowns (5) over 11 games.
Kpeenu, hails from West Fargo, ND and attended Sheyenne high school locally. In four seasons for the Bison, he played in 47 games, accruing 2,283 yards and 32 touchdowns. In the 2025 season, Kpeenu rushed for 1,005 yards with 20 rushing touchdowns.
The American Bowl will be played on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Fla. Full game coverage will be available on NFL Network with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.
