As the NCAA FCS college football playoff quarterfinals continue today, all eyes are on South Dakota, where the UC Davis Aggies face off against the South Dakota Coyotes in a highly anticipated match. Scheduled for Saturday, December 14, with kickoff at 2 p.m. CT, this exciting clash will take place in the storied DakotaDome located in Vermillion, South Dakota. The live broadcast will be exclusively available on ESPN+, making it a must-watch event for football fans nationwide.
Vermillion, with its deep-rooted historical significance, serves as the vibrant backdrop for this athletic showcase. Known not only for hosting the University of South Dakota (USD) but also for its rich cultural heritage, Vermillion invites sports enthusiasts to explore more than just the game. Since being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, the Historic Downtown Vermillion reflects its architectural past, with buildings dating back from 1880 to 1942.
South Dakota Coyotes
The Coyotes, proudly representing USD, are no strangers to the limelight. With a history as charter members of the Division II North Central Conference until their upgrade to Division I in 2008, they have consistently showcased their prowess on the field. Currently competing as part of the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the Coyotes wear their team colors of vermillion and white with pride as they strive for victory. This match also highlights their commitment, as the Sanford Coyote Sports Center and the iconic DakotaDome have been pivotal in hosting thrilling sports moments since 2016 and before 2016, respectively.
A victory for the Coyotes would not only further their playoff ambitions but also serve as a rallying point for the Vermillion community and the state of South Dakota. The university’s football team is part of an extensive athletics program that includes 18 varsity teams—7 men’s and 11 women’s sports—under the Summit League of the NCAA’s Division I.
The DakotaDome
Apart from sports, Vermillion offers a spectrum of opportunities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The city is actively enhancing its community through various initiatives and employment openings. Current job listings include positions such as Finance Office Manager, Police Officer, Service Technician, EMT/AEMT, and Volunteer Firefighter. Residents can also engage with the community through the VCDC Vermillion App, which provides a comprehensive events calendar and resource listings to keep citizens informed and connected.
On a more reflective note, Vermillion is home to the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie, a place steeped in indigenous folklore as a site of “dangerous spirits.” Established in 2002, this park offers a serene retreat and a glimpse into the region’s storied past.
As the game draws near, fans both local and distant eagerly anticipate the excitement that unfolds today in Vermillion. Each play on the field is set to echo with the cheers of a community that stands behind their team, fortifying South Dakota’s place on the collegiate sports map.
If you’re planning to catch the game live, ESPN+ offers a streaming service for less than $12 per month, with options to cancel anytime. For avid bettors and sports analysts, the South Dakota Coyotes are slightly ahead with a spread of -5 against UC Davis, while the over/under stands at a thrilling 58.5. For more on streaming sports, visit ESPN+.