Jeff Bentrim Record-Setting North Dakota...

Jeff Bentrim, born June 21, 1965, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, carved a unique football legacy. At North Dakota State University, he quarterbacked the Bison to three consecutive Division II national championships (1988-1990). His dual-threat ability, combining pinpoint passing with elusive running, made him a dominant force.

Bentrim's collegiate career at North Dakota State University redefined Division II quarterback play. He achieved unprecedented dominance, starting in four national championship games and securing three titles. His versatility was unmatched; a master of the veer offense, he excelled at option plays, executing fakes, pitches, and keepers with equal precision.

College Career

Bentrim's football legacy is firmly rooted in his collegiate achievements. He revolutionized NDSU's offense, proving a small-town talent could achieve national dominance. His record-breaking 64 career rushing touchdowns surpassed Walter Payton's previous NCAA record (all divisions).

Road to the Pro Game

Undrafted in the NFL, Bentrim's road to the pros was not complete. After his remarkable college career, Jeff Bentrim transitioned to professional football, joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. Initially, he served as the third-string quarterback, learning behind veterans Kent Austin and Tom Burgess. Following the 1989 season, Burgess's trade to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers opened the door for Bentrim's promotion to second-string. Notably, Bentrim's football journey includes both collegiate and professional championships, as he was a member of three Division II national title-winning teams at North Dakota State and the 1989 Grey Cup champion Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Football Legacy

In his career at NDSU he rushed for 2,945 yards and passed for 3,400 yards, and is second on the career total offense list at NDSU with 6,345 yards. 1 Induction into the Bison Athletic Hall of Fame cements his position as an NDSU legend, a testament to his exceptional college career.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Bentrim's scoring prowess was legendary. He led Division II in scoring for three consecutive years (1984-1986), amassing 386 career points. Notably, his 64 career rushing touchdowns shattered Walter Payton's NCAA record (all divisions) for regular season play. In his four years, NDSU boasted a 47-5-1 record, including an astounding 11-1 playoff run with Bentrim at the helm. He tallied 81 total touchdowns (64 rushing, 17 playoff rushing).

His accolades include the 1986 Harlon Hill Trophy, All-America honors, and North Central Conference MVP. He was also named to the Division II Quarter-Century Team (1973-97). His career stats reflect his dual-threat capabilities: 2,948 rushing yards and 3,400 passing yards in regular season games. Bentrim's impact on NDSU and Division II football remains unparalleled.