Local coach keeps cool before a late kickoff
If you’re planning to tune in, set the coffee on: UND plays at Portland State with a 9 p.m. kickoff Saturday. Head coach Eric Schmidt isn’t making a fuss about the late start, according to the Grand Forks Herald’s reporting, focusing instead on sticking to the team’s normal preparation.
Around here, most UND games start earlier in the day at the Alerus Center or in the late afternoon. A true night game out West is unusual for fans in Grand Forks, but the message from the program this week has been simple: control what you can and play ball.
The Details
- Where: On the road at Portland State (Oregon)
- When: Saturday, 9 p.m. Central, according to the Grand Forks Herald
- Watch/Listen: TV/stream and radio details are listed on the UND Athletics schedule — check ahead for updates
- Tickets (traveling fans): Check Portland State Athletics for venue and ticket information
Why the late start matters
Kickoff at 9 p.m. Central shifts the whole routine — pregame meals, naps, and the timing of warmups. For fans here, it also means a late finish that can stretch past midnight, which isn’t ideal for young families or early Sunday plans.
If you’ve been meaning to make a night of it, a West Coast game can be a good excuse. Downtown spots with TVs typically keep the game on if it’s available, but call ahead about closing times and channels so you’re not scrambling after halftime.
Coach’s perspective
Schmidt has downplayed the impact of the start time this week, according to the Grand Forks Herald, emphasizing that preparation and execution travel no matter the clock. The approach tracks with what UND has leaned on in past road swings — consistent routines, hydration, and keeping players off their feet until it’s time to go.
It’s also a reminder that time zones are part of college football life for UND. However late the start feels in Grand Forks, the job is the same once the ball’s kicked.
Voices from the field
As of publication, the Herald’s report centers on Schmidt’s steady approach; additional on-the-record comments from players or staff about handling the late window haven’t been published. If UND or local fan groups announce watch gatherings, we’ll update with those details.
Plan your game day
- At home: Double-check the UND Athletics football schedule on game day for confirmed TV/stream links and radio affiliates. It’s the most reliable spot for last-minute changes.
- Out in town: If you’re heading to a downtown spot or along 32nd Avenue South, call ahead to confirm they’ll have the UND game on and how late the kitchen stays open.
- On the road: If you’re traveling to Oregon, look to Portland State Athletics for the latest on tickets, parking, and stadium policies. Expect cooler evening temps and plan layers.
Before you go
- Time zones trip people up — 9 p.m. Central is what matters for Grand Forks viewers; verify kickoff on the UND schedule the morning of the game in case of adjustments.
- If you’re corralling a group, set a check-in time well before kickoff to sort out seating and channels.
- Keep an eye on UND Athletics channels for any game-week updates on broadcast notes or late changes.
What to Watch
UND’s body-clock management is the quiet subplot — how the Hawks look in the first quarter will say a lot about the week’s preparation. Special teams and depth tend to matter more in late windows; watch for how Schmidt rotates on defense as the night wears on. After Portland State, keep an eye on the schedule for the next home date at the Alerus Center and any shifts in game times.
