North Dakota State and South Dakota State Clash in Top FCS Showdown

This Saturday, October 14, 2023, the spotlight will shine on Brookings, South Dakota, as the top-ranked North Dakota State Bison face off against the second-ranked South Dakota State Jackrabbits in a highly anticipated match in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This rivalry game, known as the Dakota Marker, features two undefeated teams, with the Jackrabbits boasting a perfect 7-0 record under first-year head coach Dan Jackson.

Leading the Jackrabbits is quarterback Chase Mason, who has played a pivotal role in their successful season. However, Mason sustained an injury during last week’s victory over Murray State, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. The Jackrabbits have bolstered their offense this season with the addition of running back Julius Loughridge, who transferred from Fordham. Loughridge has made an immediate impact, accumulating 714 yards and scoring six touchdowns, including a remarkable four-touchdown performance against Youngstown State two weeks ago.

The Bison enter the game with their own injury concerns. Defensive tackle Jaxon Duttenhefer suffered a neck injury during last Saturday’s game against Indiana State. Though Duttenhefer returned to the stadium after being transported to a local hospital, his status for the Dakota Marker remains uncertain. Additionally, junior wide receiver Mekhi Collins is also questionable due to an ankle injury sustained during a special teams play in the first quarter of the same game. The absence of tight ends Finn Diggins and Carson Williams further complicates the Bison’s lineup as they prepare for this crucial matchup.

Historically, the Jackrabbits have had the upper hand in recent contests held in Brookings, winning three of the last four encounters. The Bison’s last victory in Brookings occurred in 2019, where they claimed a narrow 23-16 victory. Last season, North Dakota State snapped a four-game losing streak against South Dakota State by winning the Dakota Marker, a significant moment for the Bison as they celebrated their first win in the rivalry in five years.

As anticipation builds for this critical game, sports analysts such as Jeff Kolpack from The Forum and Dom Izzo from WDAY are already discussing potential impacts and outcomes. The game will be broadcast live on ESPNU, allowing fans across the nation to witness this clash of titans in FCS football.

Both teams are eager to secure a victory that could have lasting implications for their season and playoff positioning. With a blend of talent, determination, and fierce rivalry, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in Brookings this Saturday.