The landscape of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) has been heavily dominated by programs from the Northern Plains, particularly those in South Dakota and Montana. Among them, South Dakota State University has become a powerhouse in recent years, winning back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023. This success highlights not only the prowess of the athletes but also the deep-rooted football culture prevalent in South Dakota.
South Dakota’s influence on the FCS stage is undeniable. The state’s investment in college football infrastructure is exemplified by South Dakota State’s luxurious Dykhouse Stadium. Opened in 2016, the venue holds over 19,000 fans and boasts modern facilities that rival those of some FBS programs, underscoring the commitment to excellence in college athletics.
South Dakota State
The Jackrabbits, as South Dakota State is affectionately known, have developed a unique brand of play. The team embraces a ground-and-pound style, utilizing multiple tight ends to excel in cold-weather games, a strategy that has proven effective in the gritty months of playoff season. This approach differs markedly from the higher-scoring, spread offenses more common in Texas, where the climate allows for a different style of play.
The dominance of teams from the Dakotas and Montana extends beyond just a fortunate run of form. It is rooted in the cultural fabric of these states, where college football is viewed as the pinnacle of sporting achievement. In South Dakota, with no professional sports franchises to compete for attention, college football occupies a significant place in the hearts of local sports enthusiasts. This undivided support is a clear advantage in recruiting and retaining talent, as players grow up idolizing the Jackrabbits.
The success of South Dakota State can be attributed to more than just player talent; it’s about the community and institutional support that forms the backbone of the program. A dedicated fan base, significant financial resources, and state-of-the-art facilities combine to create an environment in which athletes can thrive.
The move of North Dakota State to the FBS’s Mountain West Conference in 2026 could alter the FCS landscape and potentially allow other programs to rise in prominence. However, experts remain cautious about predicting a shift in power dynamics. Clint Dolezel, head coach at East Texas A&M, expressed doubt that southern teams could consistently overcome the entrenched programs of the North: “I don’t know if we’ll ever fully bridge that gap consistently because of who they are,” Dolezel remarked.
Further illustrating the disparity, South Dakota State’s ability to conduct fundraisers that gather $1.5 million starkly contrasts with the smaller amounts raised by programs in Texas and Louisiana. This financial discrepancy extends into roster size and scholarship availability, where Northern programs can field larger teams with more scholarships.
The aspirations of Southern programs to create their dynasty may face hurdles, but they are not entirely without hope. Retention of talent, whether coaches or players, is crucial. Programs need not only talented players but also stability in coaching staffs to foster long-standing success. As Colby Carthel of SFA highlighted, continuity in coaching is essential in building meaningful relationships that influence players to stay committed.
As the FCS prepares for the next chapter in its history, South Dakota remains a focal point, with its teams continuing to set high standards. The region’s significant investment in its football programs offers a blueprint for success that other states may seek to emulate, even as they navigate the challenges of competition from the South.
For South Dakota and its people, the love for college football is deeply ingrained, indicative of a broader commitment to sports and community. As the state continues to cheer on the Jackrabbits and other teams, it bolsters the North’s reputation as a bastion of football excellence.
The future holds many possibilities, and South Dakota intends to stay at the forefront of FCS dominance.