FCS title rematch a chance for North Dakota State, Sam Houston State offenses to get it right

North Dakota State quarterback Brock Jensen answers a reporter's question after a closed team practice, Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013, in Frisco, Texas. North Dakota State faces Sam Houston State in the FCS Championship NCAA college football game on Saturday. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

Sam Houston State quarterback Brian Bell waits for a team photo on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013, in Frisco, Texas. North Dakota State is scheduled to play Sam Houston State in the FCS championship NCAA college football game on Saturday. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

FRISCO, Texas – The FCS championship rematch between North Dakota State and Sam Houston State is something of a do-over for several key returning offensive players.

They didn't have much of a say a year ago when a fake punt was the most important play in North Dakota State's 17-6 victory in a game dominated by defense.

The Bison (13-1) controlled prolific Sam Houston State running back Tim Flanders to become the fourth straight first-time FCS champion. Bearkats quarterback Brian Bell couldn't answer, completing just 12 of 32 passes.

An improved passing game won't guarantee anything for Sam Houston (11-3) on Saturday. The Bison lead the FCS in passing defense, along with scoring and total defense.

North Dakota State's offense wasn't much better a year ago, although returning quarterback Brock Jensen accounted for both touchdowns.