The backfield duo has proved to be the perfect complement for each other. Iversen, a senior, is a bruising 6-foot-4 205-pound power runner.

Reiman, a 5-foot-8 150-pound junior, is a quick strike scat back. Together, they have been a formidable offensive weapon.

Laura Haatvedt | Capital Journal The Buffaloes’ senior running back Tyler Reiman (20) eyes an opponent as he runs the ball down the field Sept. 6 during the Oahe Prep Bowl game against Mobridge at Hollister Field. Reiman and fellow senior Austin Iversen have combined for more than 800 yards in total offense for the Buffs this season. Advertisement

Iversen has rushed for 409 yards in four games. Reiman added 286 on the ground and another 111 in receiving yards.

"We usually start out with me on a sweep and once we get the run established, Tyler will take over," said Iversen. "Then we just move it back and forth."

Both runners realized early on that they would be counted on to shoulder a large share of the offensive burden. Last year’s starting quarterback, Trevor Lopour, provided more than half of the team’s rushing yardage and he scored 14 of the team’s 19 touchdowns. Iversen averaged 4.4 yards per carry and tallied two touchdowns. This is the senior’s third year as a Buff after transferring from Gettysburg two years ago.

"It was quite an adjustment going from nine-man to 11-man," he said. "Defensively, it was harder to key on players. But overall, the adjustment went smoothly because I’ve known these guys my whole life."

For Reiman, the season has been a welcome change from the struggles of a year ago. He broke his ankle during summer camp and missed more than half the season. Activated late in the season, he had only nine carries and three receptions for a total of 29 yards.

"It’s hard to see me because I’m so little," said Reiman. "I just keep behind my big linemen."

"They’re the type of runners who are capable of getting 8-12 yards on a carry," said Buff coach Tom Rogers. "They have the quickness to pop things and get out there."

Lopour had scored six touchdowns on runs of 40 or more yards. But Rogers knew that kind of explosiveness would not be part of the Buffs offensive mix this year.

"We knew we weren’t going to run three plays and have a guy break for 60 yards," said Rogers. "What we were counting on is putting together long drives and then getting the points. For the most part, we have been able to move the football, thanks to our offensive line."

Iversen showed some flashes of potential last year with two games of more than 100 yards. He had one of the greatest rushing performances in team history on Sept. 12 in Miller when he tallied 206 yards. That was the most by a Stanley County runner in a dozen years and seventh-highest in team history.

"The holes opened up right away but usually the other team makes adjustments," said Iversen. "That’s when Tyler and Jake (Pearson) take over. You can’t key on one person."

The duo has also proven to be a potent weapon in the air. Four times, Iversen has pulled up on a run for a halfback option pass. Four times the pass has gone to Reiman. They all were for big gains of 21, 27, 31 and 24 yards.

"We went to the Prep Bowl camp last summer and messed around," said Iversen. "Tyler is our best receiver and it’s worked out. It’s just another trick in our bag."

The two stalwarts don’t get any breathers. Both play every down on defense with Iversen at linebacker and Reiman a cornerback. Reiman is also the primary kick returner while Iversen is the team’s punter.

"As team captains, we try to set an example by working hard," said Iversen. "Hopefully, the kids will see that and work hard too."

Reiman has been tough to throw against. In limited play last year, he still managed to nab two interceptions. He’s already had two more picks this season. Iversen has been one of the leading tacklers on defense.

"We’ve been working hard at protecting against the pass," said Reiman.

The Buffs will have its biggest challenge of the season tonight when undefeated and top-rated Platte-Geddes-Dakota Christian comes to Ole Williamson Field.

"They have some great all-around athletes who are stud football and basketball players," said Iversen. "(Platte quarterback Jordan) Johnson is one of the quickest kids I’ve known. It’s going to have to be a team effort to stop these guys. Not one single person can do it."

The Buffs hope that a little thunder and lightning can rattle and shock the Black Panthers.