The FCS Playoffs heat up as South Dakota takes center stage, preparing to face UC Davis in a much-anticipated quarterfinal showdown. The Coyotes, boasting a strong season, are set to host the Aggies on December 14, 2024, with kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m. CT, broadcast live on ESPN+.
South Dakota has been making waves in college football with a balanced offensive and defensive strategy, which has earned them a No. 4 seed. This game promises to be an instant classic, as both teams bring explosive offenses to the field. The Coyotes’ dynamic playmakers will be crucial in what could be a defining moment for South Dakota in the FCS landscape.
Key Players to Watch: South Dakota Coyotes
Leading the Coyotes is quarterback Aidan Bouman, who has showcased remarkable efficiency this season, completing 68.9% of his passes for 2,470 yards and 16 touchdowns with a mere two interceptions. Bouman’s precision could prove pivotal in outmaneuvering the UC Davis defense.
Travis Theis
The Coyote backfield is nothing short of formidable. Running backs Charles Pierre Jr. and Travis Theis have been a powerhouse duo, combining for over 2,000 rushing yards. Pierre Jr. has especially made headlines, being named the Co-Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) Offensive Player of the Week and setting a career-best 173 rushing yards in a recent game. He’s also made history as the first Coyote in the USD Division I era to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season.
The Coyotes’ defense is anchored by the standout performance of Mi’Quise Grace, who is set to make a crucial impact with 58 total tackles, including 18 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. The defensive strategy will depend on Gary Bryant III and Nate Ewell to effectively counter UC Davis’s fast-paced passing offense.
South Dakota’s Strategic Edge
One of the strengths of South Dakota lies in their ability to control the tempo of the game through their rushing attack. Averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per carry, the Coyotes can wear down defenses over time, opening opportunities for strategic passing plays by Bouman. Their physicality will be a key component as they aim to control the clock and dictate the game flow.
The Rivalry: South Dakota vs. UC Davis
In terms of series history, South Dakota holds an edge over UC Davis, leading 4-2. This existing rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to an already high-stakes match. The Aggies, led by quarterback Miles Hastings with a staggering 4,148 passing yards and 35 touchdowns this season, pose a significant threat to the Coyotes. UC Davis ranks third in the FCS for passing yards per game (330.6), suggesting an aerial onslaught could be in store for the Coyote defense.
Conclusion: A Battle of Tactical Brilliance
As South Dakota prepares for this crucial playoff encounter, the atmosphere in the state is electric with anticipation. Fans from the Plains region, known for their passionate support and hearty resilience, are expected to turn out in full force, cheering their team to victory. The powerhouse performances of Bouman and Pierre Jr. will be instrumental in the Coyotes’ quest for FCS glory. This December 14 showdown promises to be a game for the ages, one that will test the tactical prowess and resilience of both teams in their pursuit of a semifinal berth against No. 1 Montana State.
South Dakota is favored to win this contest with a predicted final score of 35-31, but only time will tell if they can execute their game plan and march forward in the 2024 FCS Playoffs.