South Dakota State University (SDSU), nestled in the heart of the American Midwest, is once again at the forefront of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. This Saturday, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits are set to face the Incarnate Word Cardinals at 11 a.m. at the renowned Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium, a jewel of South Dakota’s athletic infrastructure. A testament to the state’s passion for college sports, the stadium will be buzzing with local fans eager to witness this crucial playoff quarterfinal.
The matchup will be broadcasted live on ESPN, providing nationwide coverage of this high-stakes encounter. Local radio station WNAX-AM 570 will also provide on-the-ground insights, ensuring that fans don’t miss a moment of the action.
The Spirit of South Dakota: Jackrabbits on a Roll
With a strong 11-2 record and ranked No. 3 in FCS, the Jackrabbits are led by second-year coach Jimmy Rogers, who has an impressive 26-2 career record with the team. The Jackrabbits are on a six-game winning streak, posting an average of 36.5 points on offense while allowing a mere 12.9 points on defense. The people of South Dakota are known for their hardworking spirit, and this ethos is mirrored in the Jackrabbits’ tenacity on the field.
Meet The Players
- Chase Mason, the talented junior quarterback, stands tall at 6’4″ and brings strength and agility to the team. After missing the entire 2022 season due to injury, Mason has returned with vigor, determined to lead the Jackrabbits deep into the postseason.
- Amar Johnson has been a powerhouse, amassing 1,013 yards and 13 touchdowns, showcasing the local focus on ground-and-pound football strategy.
- Mark Gronowski is another pivotal figure, having thrown for 2,341 yards and 19 touchdown passes, significantly contributing to SDSU’s offensive prowess.
The Rival: Incarnate Word Cardinals
Coached by Clint Killough, also in his second year, the Cardinals are ranked sixth in FCS and come into this game with a remarkable 10-game winning streak. An explosive offensive team, their star quarterback Zach Calzada has racked up over 3,500 passing yards, boasting 35 touchdowns against a mere eight interceptions, marking him as a future NFL prospect. South Dakota fans will need to keep an eye on his connections with receivers Jalen Walthall and Roy Alexander, both of whom have impressive stats this season.
The Incarnate Word defense, although allowing over 20 points in several games, has been aggressive with 38 sacks, led by Devin Grant, Dune Smith, and John Mathis, showcasing a relentless pursuit reminiscent of South Dakota’s own hunting traditions.
Traditional and Digital Engagement
The Jackrabbits are not just a force on the field but also thrive in the digital sphere. Engaging with fans through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, SDSU cultivates a community of supporters that extends beyond the state’s borders. This solid engagement strategy reflects the friendly and community-oriented nature of South Dakotans.
A Proven Record of Success
With last season’s crowning as FCS champions by going 15-0, SDSU is not just competing but consistently dominating in their field. The Jackrabbits have reached the FCS semifinals for five consecutive years, making them a symbol of athletic excellence in South Dakota.
As anticipation climbs, the state’s residents look forward to another epic showdown at the Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. This arena, like the sprawling landscapes of South Dakota, serves as a steadfast ground where dreams take root and champions are forged.