This game marked the beginning of a new era in a storied tradition. The previous 40 seasons, from 1971-2010, the program had two familiar faces directing the Ponies on the gridiron. The first 29 years under Hall of Famer George Thole and the next 11 under Scott Hoffman, one of Thole's long-time assistants. The game at Pony Stadium was not only the season opener but the first game for new Ponies head coach Beau LaBore, who spent the previous six seasons as head coach at Woodbury. The game reflected the emotion on the sidelines as each team scored touchdowns on its first two possessions and the lead changed three times in the first half, ending with Stillwater up 21-14. The Big Red offense was led by Nate Ricci, making his first start calling signals, accounting for all four touchdowns running and throwing for two, each of which was over 20 yards. Meanwhile, the defense settled after two quick Royal touchdowns, led by co-captain Zach Krenz's game high nine tackles and Sam Brynestad, who recovered two key fumbles. The final 19 minutes of the game the Ponies snapped 31 plays to the Royals 10. The final quarter was dominated by the locals as they racked up 110 yards while surrendering just 18. Also memorable, was the 15 minute fourth quarter black out at Pony Stadium caused by a transformer meltdown in Lake Elmo as the Ponies sought to run out the clock. LaBore became the first head coach to win his season opener since Carver Fouks in 1965, en route to the best first year record in school history.