VERMILLION, S.D. — The University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks, renowned for their formidable No. 6-ranked run defense in the FCS, are set to face the daunting challenge of taking on South Dakota’s pride — L.J. Phillips Jr., the Missouri Valley Football Conference’s (MVFC) leading rusher. The Hawks will clash with the University of South Dakota Coyotes during a fervent Saturday afternoon kickoff at the iconic DakotaDome in Vermillion, a landmark of South Dakota’s thriving sports culture.
The upcoming game promises to be a battle of prowess as UND, currently riding a five-game winning streak, seeks to overcome a historical drought within the DakotaDome, not having secured a victory there since 2008. As they stand strong with a 6-2 overall and 4-0 in the MVFC, the Fighting Hawks aim to continue their dominant trajectory in run defense, allowing fewer than 90 yards on average per game.
South Dakota, with a robust community of ardent football enthusiasts, eagerly anticipates witnessing their Coyotes capitalize on home-field advantage. Historically, Vermillion has been an integral hub of collegiate athletic spirit, steeped in a rich tradition of football excellence that draws fans from across the state. The DakotaDome, an emblem of this heritage, will host this electrifying encounter, and South Dakota locals are buzzing with anticipation as they prepare to rally behind their home team.
Phillips Jr., a powerhouse hailing from Wichita, Kansas, has been a significant asset for the Coyotes, especially stepping up after an injury sidelined All-American Charles Pierre Jr. His impressive statistics underscore his impact: a league-high with 182 carries accumulating to 1,190 rushing yards, coupled with 11 touchdowns this season. His ability to cut through defenses seamlessly has left a trail of impressive performances, such as his explosive 301-yard game against Northern Colorado, demonstrating the kind of threat he poses to opposing defenses.
- L.J. Phillips Jr.: A pivotal player for the Coyotes, consistently outperforming his peers in the MVFC.
- Vermillion’s DakotaDome: A center stage for collegiate athletic excellence in South Dakota.
- UND’s Stronghold: Their defense leads FCS and aims to maintain their under-90-yards-per-game record.
UND head coach Eric Schmidt remains focused on the Hawks maintaining their defensive integrity. “I think [Phillips Jr.] is a really good fit for their scheme,” Schmidt commented. “They do a great job of stretching guys out, giving him some options. I think he has natural vision. Then when he gets downhill and gets into the second level — when you play under center and in the pistol, those guys have a lot of momentum going downhill. So, we have to be able to do a good job being gap sound off of it, making sure you get enough hats in there to be able to stop their run game. But the thing that you know that they do a good job of is the quarterback controls a lot of what they’re doing at the line of scrimmage, and gets them in and out of the right plays.”
University of South Dakota
In contrast, UND’s defensive lineup boasts consistency and resilience. Emergent stars have burgeoned throughout the season, establishing UND as a formidable adversary. The Hawks’ defense has been impenetrable, with Kansas State being the only team to push over 125 yards against them during an intense game earlier in the season.
For Coach Schmidt, the focus remains clear. “They have a really good running back and a veteran quarterback with a good offensive line,” UND edge Myles Terry remarked. “Feel like the game plan is the same. We’re making sure we’re preparing the right way.” As South Dakota and UND gear up for this monumental showdown, football fans from both sides of the border anxiously await the outcome.
This game embodies the spirit of college sports, not only showcasing fierce competition on the field but also illustrating the vibrant camaraderie and state pride that defines South Dakota. Locals and fans alike prepare to flood the DakotaDome, where passionate cheers will echo through the air as two giants of the MVFC collide. This clash is not merely a game; it’s a telling of strength, strategy, and the pursuit of victory.
Prepare for the Showdown
- Where: DakotaDome, Vermillion, S.D.
- When: 1 p.m., Saturday
- Records: UND 6-2 overall, 4-0 MVFC; USD 5-4 overall, 3-2 MVFC
This fixture is more than just a game in South Dakota; it’s a testament to enduring spirit and athletic excellence. With UND aiming to fortify their winning streak and South Dakota defending their turf passionately, the stakes have never been higher. Football enthusiasts nationwide will watch with bated breath, ready to witness history in the making.