South Dakota State University (SDSU) has clinched the 14th seed in the NCAA FCS playoffs, marking their 14th consecutive appearance in the tournament. The Jackrabbits will host the University of New Hampshire on November 25, 2023, following their victory over North Dakota in the regular season finale. This win ended a four-game losing streak and ensured their place in the postseason.
Upcoming Match Details
The first-round playoff game will take place at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium with kick-off scheduled for 12:00 PM. Fans can watch the action live on ESPN+. Tickets for the game can be purchased online at gojacks.evenue.net. Season ticket holders have until 5 PM on Tuesday to secure their usual seats, after which unclaimed seats will be available to the general public.
This matchup marks the second meeting between SDSU and New Hampshire in FCS playoff history, with the Jackrabbits previously defeating the Wildcats 56-14 in 2017. Both teams enter the playoffs with a record of 8-4, having earned at-large bids.
Season Overview
The Jackrabbits began the season strongly, achieving a record of 7-0 and reaching as high as No. 2 in national rankings. However, a challenging four-game losing streak nearly jeopardized their playoff chances. Their recent overtime victory against North Dakota, with a final score of 34-31, solidified their postseason berth.
New Hampshire, also boasting an 8-4 record, enters the playoffs on a high note, riding a five-game winning streak. They performed well in the Colonial Athletic Association, finishing with a 6-2 record in conference play. This season, six teams from the Missouri Valley Football Conference have qualified for the playoffs. North Dakota State earned the top seed, while the University of South Dakota and Youngstown State received the 11th and 15th seeds, respectively. Illinois State and North Dakota also qualified as unseeded teams.
The upcoming game not only holds significance for both teams but also promises an exciting atmosphere as the Jackrabbits aim to advance further in the tournament. With a strong home crowd expected at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium, SDSU looks to capitalize on their home-field advantage against a formidable opponent in New Hampshire.
