As the anticipation builds for the highly awaited FCS semifinals, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits are set to face their long-time rivals, the North Dakota State Bison, on December 21, 2024. This clash, taking place in the renowned FARGODOME in Fargo, North Dakota, promises to be a thrilling chapter in the enduring rivalry between these two formidable teams.
The South Dakota State University Athletics, representing the Jackrabbits, have been a powerhouse in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. Their recent performances have surpassed expectations, consistently outperforming SP+ projections by an average of 13.9 points over the last five games. Coach John Stiegelmeier, leading the Jackrabbits, has emphasized the importance of hard work and strategic play, bringing out the best in his team.
South Dakota State University, located in Brookings, South Dakota, is home to a diverse range of sports teams. The Jackrabbits engage in sports such as baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, swimming and diving, track and field, and wrestling. More about the Jackrabbits’ range of sports offerings can be explored on their official athletics website.
SDSU’s standout performance has largely been driven by their skilled quarterback, Mark Gronowski, who has played a pivotal role in their last six victories, leading to an average score of 44-11. The Jackrabbits have benefited from strong tactical plays and are keen to build on their recent successes against the Bison.
Meanwhile, the North Dakota State University Bison, much like their competitors, boast an impressive record as nine-time defending National Champions of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision. They play their home games at the FARGODOME, a state-of-the-art venue that provides a commanding atmosphere conducive to high-stakes football.
The FARGODOME opened on December 2, 1992, offering spectators and players alike a premier experience with its seating capacity of 18,500 for football games, and the ability to expand to 21,500 patrons for concerts and other high-capacity events. For those unfamiliar, the FARGODOME is situated approximately five minutes north of the downtown business district on the North Dakota State University campus, making it a central hub for significant sporting events in the region.
The encounter with North Dakota State in the FCS semifinals underscores a storied history of rivalry and competition. This match marks the sixth playoff meeting between these teams in the past 13 years, embodying the spirit of the famed Dakota Marker trophy pursuit. With both teams coming into the semifinals unbeaten against FCS opponents during the regular season, expectations are undoubtedly high for an intense and thrilling showdown.
In the broader playoff picture, Montana State stands as the only unbeaten team remaining and is set to square off against South Dakota. Montana State’s Bobcat Stadium has been a fortress for the team, with the Bobcats winning 34 of their last 35 home games. Comparatively, South Dakota’s defensive prowess, highlighted by standout player Mi’Quise Grace, who has registered an impressive 12.5 tackles for loss in the previous seven games, makes them a formidable adversary.
South Dakota State Jackrabbits
While the Jackrabbits and Bison gear up for their pivotal match, the Ivy League brings its historical context to the mix as it plans to participate in the FCS playoffs starting next season. This marks a monumental change after a century-long postseason ban designed to prioritize academics.
The commitment of South Dakota State University to athletic excellence extends beyond just its football achievements. The university offers a range of facilities and services dedicated to all its sports teams, encompassing academic support, sports medicine, and coaching clinics that cater to emerging athletes. Furthermore, SDSU has numerous partnership and sponsorship opportunities, enhancing their community engagement and team prestige.
As the December 21 semifinal game approaches, fans from both South Dakota and North Dakota eagerly anticipate a high-energy match that promises excitement and showcases the competitive spirit of FCS football. Followers of the game have multiple options to watch the game live, with streaming services such as fuboTV and DirecTV Stream providing convenient access to this thrilling event.
With the FARGODOME as the stage for this intense rivalry, the Jackrabbits aim to leverage their recent success to overcome the defending champions, making this FCS semifinal an unmissable spectacle for fans and supporters of college football.
For more updates and live streaming details, SDSU followers can keep track of their favorite team’s matches through the Jackrabbit Sports Network.
Fargo Dome
Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable clash that will resonate in the annals of South Dakota and North Dakota football history.