NCAA Division I Quarterfinals: South Dakota Triumphs at the DakotaDome
The anticipation was palpable as South Dakota’s Coyotes took on UC Davis at the historic DakotaDome in Vermillion, a place with deep roots in college sports and the local community. On this memorable Saturday afternoon, the Coyotes showcased their prowess, defeating UC Davis 35-21 in a thrilling NCAA Division I Football Quarterfinals matchup.
The DakotaDome, an illustrious structure initially constructed in 1979 with a seating capacity of 9,100, proudly hosted the event. This multi-purpose facility has long been a staple of South Dakota athletics, regularly hosting Coyote football games and other major events, including the famed DAKOTA Farm Show and state high school football championships.
Vermillion SD
The Coyotes, who ended their season with an impressive 11-2 record, demonstrated why they were the superior team. Harnessing the energy of their home crowd and capitalizing on their home-field advantage, South Dakota surged to an early lead. The team’s solid performance reflected the exceptional facilities and resources available to them, particularly after a $26 million renovation completed on the west side of the DakotaDome in 2020. This renovation included improved seating, loge boxes, and suites, enhancing the experience for players and fans alike.
Head Coach Tim Plough of UC Davis aptly recognized the prowess of the Coyotes, stating, “South Dakota deserves all the credit, they played outstanding. They’re tough in all three phases of the game and are really well-coached. They played better than us today.”
The DakotaDome
UC Davis matched up against South Dakota with a fierce determination. They managed a remarkable 433 yards of total offense, showcasing their agile strategy and relentless effort. Yet, it was not enough to overcome the Coyotes and their well-honed skills honed over the season. Senior wide receiver Trent Tompkins led the Aggies with 110 yards of receiving, a valiant effort that displayed his athleticism and dedication.
As the game unfolded, South Dakota struck first, taking advantage of an early UC Davis interception. They kept up the momentum, ultimately running a successful six-play drive that resulted in a touchdown, setting the stage for early dominance. Despite UC Davis’s rigorous defense, which notably staved off South Dakota in the red zone multiple times, the Coyotes maintained their grip on the game. Their accomplishment was a testament to the seamless blend of strategy, skill, and the support of their high-definition video board from Daktronics, which keeps fans engaged and informed.
In the third quarter, some highlights for UC Davis included a miraculous recovery by Gaven Cooke, who intercepted and held the line just before halftime, refusing South Dakota the chance to extend their lead. However, despite these efforts, the Coyotes came back stirringly in the fourth quarter, widening their lead to seal their victory.
South Dakota Coyotes football
The City of Vermillion, South Dakota, the heartbeat of Coyote pride, provided a vibrant backdrop for this landmark event. Vermillion is more than just a venue for sporting excellence; it’s a community embedded with a rich history and a commitment to growth. The city’s mission emphasizes improving quality of life and creating a thriving environment for its residents and visitors, bolstered by recent developments in infrastructure and public amenities.
Cherished landmarks such as the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie and the historic downtown that secured its place on the National Register of Historic Places testify to Vermillion’s dedication to preserving history while fostering innovation. Residents can take pride in the VCDC Vermillion App, which offers real-time updates and event information, enhancing community engagement.
Vermillion is not just a place of athletic achievement but also an academic and cultural hub, home to the prestigious National Music Museum. This city, steeped in tradition and progressive renewal, stands as a beacon of achievement, and community spirit evident in its embrace of events like the NCAA playoffs.
As South Dakota moves forward from this victory, their success at the DakotaDome continues to inspire, illuminating the state’s commitment to excellence in sports and community life. The Coyotes’ season may have reached its zenith, but their legacy will surely motivate future athletes to achieve even greater heights.