South Dakota is gearing up for a challenging yet exciting encounter in the FCS Semi-finals as the state’s pride, the South Dakota Coyotes, take on the Montana Grizzlies. Scheduled for 1:30 PM on Saturday, December 13th, this high-stakes game will be hosted at Montana’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium. This marks the first meeting between the two teams since 2022, where Montana secured a 24-7 victory.
South Dakota, renowned for its stunning landscapes such as Badlands National Park and the iconic Mount Rushmore, is more than just its scenic beauty. It’s a place where communities thrive on resilience and hard work, values reflected on the gridiron by their beloved Coyotes. As fans and players rally, the focus is not only on securing a victory but also on showcasing South Dakota’s spirit and tenacity.
Heading into this vital match, quarterback Aidan Bouman leads the Coyotes. Bouman has garnered significant attention, having thrown for over 2,600 yards and 24 touchdowns this season. His familiarity with Montana’s grounds, having played previously at Washington-Grizzly Stadium, adds an edge to his game.
When describing Bouman’s prowess, Montana Grizzlies head coach Bobby Hauck stated, “When guys have played a lot, you know, the game slows down for him. They see things, they tend to not make mistakes and so anytime that you have a veteran, you’re going to have a guy that can function, things aren’t going to rattle him. Mistakes aren’t going to bother him.”
However, the South Dakota Coyotes are not a one-man show. They boast a powerhouse running back in LJ Phillips Jr. With a staggering 1,800-plus rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, Phillips Jr. is the nation’s leading rusher this season. His dynamic play can potentially turn the tide in favor of South Dakota.
Aidan Bouman, South Dakota’s veteran quarterback, has thrown for over 2,600 yards this season.
The South Dakota offense is further bolstered by the skilled wide receiver Larenzo Fenner. With 984 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, he remains a vital cog in the Coyotes’ offensive machinery. Hauck commented on the challenge of facing such a versatile lineup, noting, “They’ve got people that can catch the ball in space and make you miss. So typical of a game at this time of the year. It’ll be a heck of a game.”
Larenzo Fenner, a key player for South Dakota, has accumulated 15 touchdowns this season.
South Dakota’s commitment to excellence is mirrored in its educational institutions, such as the University of South Dakota, which plays a pivotal role in the community. The university not only excels academically but also fosters a strong athletic department, with the Coyotes’ football team being a testament to their robust sports culture.
The people of South Dakota are known for their fierce loyalty to local sports teams. Whether it’s the Coyotes on the football field or other college teams in various sports, South Dakota residents are passionate supporters, making any game involving the Coyotes an exhilarating and deeply personal experience.
To succeed against Montana, the Coyotes must leverage their offensive strengths and aim for an early lead. Coach Hauck noted the importance of keeping their defense off the field by maintaining offensive momentum. “Once the offense is hitting in every way, whether it’s the pass game, the run game, when our offense is going, it’s going, and especially for us, it helps keep the defense off the field. And I know they love it when we get to rollin,” said Stevie Rocker Jr., a senior running back for Montana.
South Dakota’s preparation for the semi-finals highlights the communal spirit and dedication inherent in the state. The Coyotes are not just playing a game; they are showcasing the heart and soul of South Dakota to a national audience. Set in the backdrop of the picturesque Great Plains, this game represents more than just a chance to advance; it’s an opportunity for South Dakotans to celebrate their home and culture.
As the countdown to Saturday’s game continues, South Dakota Coyotes fans can look forward to a match that is sure to be filled with intense competition and a showcase of the talents South Dakota has nurtured. Whether on the field or from the stands, the Coyotes’ journey elevates the pride of South Dakota, cementing its place in the nation’s sporting narrative.
The match between the South Dakota Coyotes and the Montana Grizzlies not only marks a pivotal moment in the season but also brings to the forefront South Dakota’s vibrant sports scene and community spirit. With a mix of seasoned athletes and enthusiastic supporters, the state is ready to carve its path to victory—and potentially, glory—in the FCS Championship.