In a thrilling turn of events for South Dakota State, the upcoming league clash with Illinois State has intensified the excitement and passions of local football aficionados. The Missouri Valley Football Conference is ablaze with anticipation as the Redbirds aim to consolidate their newly acquired No. 13 status in the AFCA FCS Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl.
The heart of South Dakota beats strong in Brookings, where South Dakota State University, home to the formidable Jackrabbits, prepares to host a pivotal encounter. The Jackrabbits, ranked No. 14/15, symbolize not just a university’s pride, but the spirit of a community whose roots run deep in collegiate athletics.

South Dakota State Jackrabbits
The Illinois State Redbirds enter this game with might and momentum following a resounding 52-20 victory over Indiana State. Their leap to the No. 13 spot in the Coaches Poll marks a significant milestone, reinstating their status as a formidable force in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, where they are the next-highest ranked team after the reigning powerhouse, North Dakota State, who clinches the top rank with 23 first-place votes.
In Brookings, South Dakota, the local populace ardently supports their Jackrabbits, who stand poised to assert their dominance on familiar turf come Saturday. With the game carrying playoff implications, it’s more than just a match; it’s a community event drawing residents from all over South Dakota.

South Dakota State University
For years, South Dakota State has basked in an illustrious sports tradition, playing a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of collegiate football across the nation. The team’s strength is not solely vested in athletic prowess but is deeply ingrained in the community’s culture, supported by a fervent fan base.
Beyond athletics, the university is known for its academic excellence and pioneering research, drawing students nationwide. The looming contest against Illinois State has captivated not just the university but also alumni and sports enthusiasts who follow every play from afar.
As the clock ticks closer to game day, both squads remain entrenched in rigorous preparation, aware of what’s at stake. The Jackrabbits and Redbirds, though competitors on the field, share a mutual respect grounded in their mutual dedication to excellence and the spirit of collegiate sport.
South Dakota residents, ever-confident in their Jackrabbits, are ready to witness what promises to be a memorable showdown. As fans rally, businesses around Brookings spy a bustling weekend with inflows of visiting supporters – a boost to both local pride and the economy.
Whether perched high in the stands or gathering at local watering holes, South Dakotans are united in their rallying cry for the Jackrabbits to surge onto victory. With the spirit of the prairie driving them, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits endeavor to carve their names anew in the annals of college football history.