The South Dakota State Jackrabbits football team will commence their 2024 season with a rousing matchup against the notable Iowa Hawkeyes at the iconic Kinnick Stadium. This thrilling encounter signifies the first meeting between these two Division I football programs since 1959. The Jackrabbits will then welcome the Indiana State Sycamores to the confines of Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota, in a compelling Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) showdown.
The 2024 season presents an array of exciting contests for the Jackrabbits. They will embark on a non-conference road trip to face the esteemed Air Force Falcons at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. This promises to be a captivating clash between two programs known for their formidable defenses. Furthermore, the Jackrabbits will journey to Washington State to confront the Cougars at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Washington, marking their first-ever meeting with a Pac-12 Conference opponent.
These exhilarating non-conference matchups will undoubtedly bolster the Jackrabbits’ preparation for their Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) slate. They will face a gauntlet of formidable MVFC opponents, including the North Dakota State Bison, the Northern Iowa Panthers, and the South Dakota Coyotes. The Jackrabbits will vie for their seventh consecutive MVFC championship and a berth in the FCS playoffs.
South Dakota State Football Schedule 2024
Exciting matchups, challenging opponents, and a quest for glory await the South Dakota State Jackrabbits in their 2024 football season.
- Season opener: Iowa Hawkeyes
- Homecoming: Indiana State Sycamores
- Non-conference road trip: Air Force Falcons
- First-ever meeting: Washington State Cougars
- MVFC gauntlet: NDSU, UNI, USD
- Seventh consecutive MVFC title chase
- Quest for FCS playoff berth
- Home field advantage: Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium
The Jackrabbits are poised to make a deep run in the FCS playoffs and bring home another national championship to Brookings, South Dakota.
Season opener: Iowa Hawkeyes
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will kick off their 2024 football season with a monumental clash against the Iowa Hawkeyes at the venerable Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. This highly anticipated matchup marks the first meeting between these two Division I football programs since 1959, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this season-opening showdown.
The Hawkeyes, under the leadership of head coach Kirk Ferentz, are a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference. They boast a rich football tradition and a passionate fan base that creates an electrifying atmosphere at Kinnick Stadium. The Jackrabbits, meanwhile, have established themselves as a dominant force in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), winning six consecutive Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) championships and reaching the FCS semifinals in 2022.
This season-opening contest will be a true test for both teams. The Jackrabbits will need to bring their A-game to compete with the Hawkeyes, who are known for their physical play and strong defense. The Hawkeyes, on the other hand, will be eager to prove their worth against a top-tier FCS program and set the tone for their 2024 campaign.
The outcome of this season opener could have significant implications for both teams. A victory for the Jackrabbits would send shockwaves through the FCS and put them in contention for a national championship. For the Hawkeyes, a win over a ranked FCS opponent would boost their confidence and provide momentum heading into their Big Ten schedule.
Regardless of the outcome, the season opener between the South Dakota State Jackrabbits and the Iowa Hawkeyes promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, showcasing the best of college football at the highest level.
Homecoming: Indiana State Sycamores
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will return to the friendly confines of Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota, for their homecoming game against the Indiana State Sycamores in 2024. This annual tradition is a celebration of the university, its students, alumni, and the surrounding community.
- A festive atmosphere: Homecoming weekend at South Dakota State is a time for celebration and excitement. The campus and the city of Brookings come alive with a variety of events and activities, including a parade, a carnival, and live music. Jackrabbit fans of all ages gather at the stadium to cheer on their beloved team and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- A chance to reconnect: Homecoming is an opportunity for South Dakota State alumni and friends to return to their alma mater and reconnect with old classmates and professors. It’s a time to reminisce about their days on campus and celebrate the university’s rich traditions.
- A showcase for the Jackrabbits: The homecoming game is a chance for the Jackrabbits to showcase their talents and entertain their fans. The team will be eager to put on a show for their loyal supporters and earn a victory in front of the home crowd.
- A family-friendly event: Homecoming is a family-friendly event that welcomes fans of all ages. There will be plenty of activities for children to enjoy, such as face painting, games, and inflatables. The stadium also offers a variety of food and beverage options to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
The homecoming game against the Indiana State Sycamores is a highlight of the South Dakota State football season. It’s a time for the Jackrabbits to celebrate their rich history and traditions, connect with their fans, and showcase their talents on the gridiron.
Non-conference road trip: Air Force Falcons
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will embark on a challenging non-conference road trip in 2024 when they travel to Colorado Springs, Colorado, to face the Air Force Falcons at the United States Air Force Academy.
- A clash of styles: The Jackrabbits and the Falcons represent two different styles of football. South Dakota State is known for its powerful running game and stout defense, while Air Force is famous for its triple-option offense and aggressive defense. This matchup promises to be a clash of wills and a test of each team’s strengths and weaknesses.
- A high-altitude challenge: Colorado Springs is located at an elevation of over 6,000 feet above sea level. This can be a significant challenge for visiting teams, as the thinner air can lead to fatigue and decreased performance. The Jackrabbits will need to be prepared for the altitude and make adjustments to their game plan accordingly.
- A hostile environment: The Air Force Academy is a beautiful campus with a rich military history. The Falcons’ home stadium, Falcon Stadium, is known for its unique atmosphere and passionate fan base. The Jackrabbits will need to be mentally tough and focused in order to overcome the challenges of playing on the road in a hostile environment.
- An opportunity for a statement win: A victory over the Air Force Falcons would be a major statement for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. It would demonstrate that they are capable of competing with the best teams in the country, regardless of their classification. A win in Colorado Springs would also boost the Jackrabbits’ national profile and help them attract top recruits.
The non-conference road trip to face the Air Force Falcons is a daunting challenge, but it is also an opportunity for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits to prove their worth and make a statement on the national stage.
First-ever meeting: Washington State Cougars
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will make history in 2024 when they travel to Pullman, Washington, to face the Washington State Cougars in the first-ever meeting between these two programs.
- A unique opportunity: This matchup is a unique opportunity for both teams to showcase their talents on a national stage. The Jackrabbits will be looking to prove that they can compete with a Power Five program, while the Cougars will be eager to add another FCS scalp to their resume.
- A challenging road trip: The trip to Pullman will be a challenging one for the Jackrabbits. Washington State is located in the Pacific Northwest, which is a long way from Brookings, South Dakota. The Jackrabbits will need to be well-prepared for the long travel and the different climate. They will also need to adjust to the Cougars’ high-powered offense, which is known for its explosive passing attack.
- A chance to make a statement: A victory over the Washington State Cougars would be a major statement for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. It would be the first time that they have ever defeated a Power Five program, and it would send shockwaves through the FCS. A win in Pullman would also boost the Jackrabbits’ national profile and help them attract top recruits.
- An exciting matchup: The first-ever meeting between the South Dakota State Jackrabbits and the Washington State Cougars promises to be an exciting and entertaining matchup. Both teams have talented players and explosive offenses. The game is sure to be a high-scoring affair that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The Jackrabbits and the Cougars are both eager to make a statement in this historic matchup. The winner will earn bragging rights and a place in the history books.
MVFC gauntlet: NDSU, UNI, USD
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will face a daunting challenge in 2024 when they navigate the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) gauntlet, which includes games against North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, and South Dakota.
- North Dakota State Bison: The North Dakota State Bison are the reigning FCS national champions and have won nine of the last 11 titles. They are known for their physical play, stout defense, and powerful running game. The Jackrabbits and the Bison have a long and storied rivalry, and their games are always close and competitive.
- Northern Iowa Panthers: The Northern Iowa Panthers are another perennial contender in the MVFC. They are known for their high-powered offense and explosive passing attack. The Panthers have won three FCS national championships and have appeared in the FCS playoffs 20 times. The Jackrabbits and the Panthers have a competitive rivalry, and their games are often decided by a few plays.
- South Dakota Coyotes: The South Dakota Coyotes are the Jackrabbits’ in-state rivals. The two schools are located just 80 miles apart, and their games are always heated and passionate. The Coyotes have won two FCS national championships and have appeared in the FCS playoffs 10 times. The Jackrabbits and the Coyotes have split their last four meetings, and their 2024 matchup is sure to be another close and exciting contest.
The MVFC gauntlet will be a major test for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits in 2024. They will need to be at their best in order to compete with these three powerhouse programs. However, the Jackrabbits have a talented and experienced team, and they are confident that they can rise to the challenge and come out on top.
Seventh consecutive MVFC title chase
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will be aiming to make history in 2024 as they chase their seventh consecutive Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) title.
- A dominant run: The Jackrabbits have been the dominant force in the MVFC in recent years. They have won six consecutive conference championships and have appeared in the FCS playoffs seven times during that span. The Jackrabbits are known for their physical play, stout defense, and powerful running game.
- A talented and experienced team: The Jackrabbits return a wealth of talent and experience in 2024. They have a strong offensive line, a talented group of running backs, and a veteran defense. The Jackrabbits are confident that they have the pieces in place to make another run at the MVFC title.
- A challenging schedule: The Jackrabbits’ MVFC schedule is always challenging, and 2024 will be no exception. They will face a gauntlet of tough opponents, including North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, and South Dakota. The Jackrabbits will need to be at their best every week in order to come out on top.
- A chance to make history: A seventh consecutive MVFC title would be a historic achievement for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. It would be the longest winning streak in conference history and would solidify the Jackrabbits’ status as one of the top programs in the FCS.
The Jackrabbits are excited about the opportunity to chase their seventh consecutive MVFC title in 2024. They know that it will be a challenge, but they are confident that they have the team and the mindset to get the job done.
Quest for FCS playoff berth
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will not only be vying for their seventh consecutive MVFC title in 2024, but they will also be aiming to secure a berth in the FCS playoffs. The Jackrabbits have a rich history of success in the FCS playoffs, having reached the semifinals seven times and the championship game twice.
The Jackrabbits have a talented and experienced team that is capable of making a deep run in the FCS playoffs. They have a strong offensive line, a talented group of running backs, and a veteran defense. The Jackrabbits are confident that they have the pieces in place to compete with the best teams in the FCS.
The Jackrabbits’ road to the FCS playoffs will be challenging. They will need to navigate a tough MVFC schedule and then win at least one playoff game on the road. However, the Jackrabbits are confident that they have the experience and the talent to overcome these challenges and reach the FCS playoffs.
The FCS playoffs are a single-elimination tournament, so every game is a must-win. The Jackrabbits know that they will need to be at their best in order to make a deep run in the playoffs. They are excited about the challenge and they are confident that they can bring home the FCS championship to Brookings, South Dakota.
The Jackrabbits are eager to prove that they are one of the top teams in the FCS. They are confident that they can make a deep run in the FCS playoffs and bring home the championship trophy.
Home field advantage: Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits enjoy a significant home field advantage at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota. The stadium is known for its enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans, who create a loud and intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams.
Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium is a state-of-the-art facility that was opened in 2007. It has a seating capacity of over 19,000 and features a variety of amenities, including luxury suites, club seats, and a large video board. The stadium is also equipped with a synthetic turf field, which provides a consistent playing surface regardless of the weather conditions.
The Jackrabbits have a strong home record at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. They have won 60 of their last 70 home games, including a perfect 7-0 record in 2022. The Jackrabbits are always confident when they play at home, and they know that they can count on their fans to provide them with a boost of energy.
The Jackrabbits’ home field advantage will be a major factor in their success in 2024. They will play six home games during the regular season, including key matchups against North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, and South Dakota. The Jackrabbits are confident that they can protect their home turf and earn a berth in the FCS playoffs.
Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium is a great place to watch a football game. The atmosphere is electric, and the fans are passionate and knowledgeable. The Jackrabbits are always excited to play at home, and they know that they can count on their fans to support them every step of the way.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the South Dakota State Football Schedule 2024:
Question 1: When is the South Dakota State football season opener in 2024?
Answer 1: The South Dakota State football season opener in 2024 will be on Saturday, August 31, against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
Question 2: When is the South Dakota State homecoming game in 2024?
Answer 2: The South Dakota State homecoming game in 2024 will be on Saturday, October 12, against the Indiana State Sycamores at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota.
Question 3: When is the South Dakota State football team’s non-conference road trip to face the Air Force Falcons in 2024?
Answer 3: The South Dakota State football team’s non-conference road trip to face the Air Force Falcons in 2024 will be on Saturday, September 21, at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Question 4: When is the South Dakota State football team’s first-ever meeting with the Washington State Cougars in 2024?
Answer 4: The South Dakota State football team’s first-ever meeting with the Washington State Cougars in 2024 will be on Saturday, November 9, at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Washington.
Question 5: What are the key MVFC matchups for the South Dakota State football team in 2024?
Answer 5: The key MVFC matchups for the South Dakota State football team in 2024 include games against North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, and South Dakota.
Question 6: What is the South Dakota State football team’s goal for the 2024 season?
Answer 6: The South Dakota State football team’s goal for the 2024 season is to win their seventh consecutive MVFC championship and earn a berth in the FCS playoffs.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the South Dakota State Football Schedule 2024. For more information, please visit the official website of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits.
In addition to the FAQ, here are a few tips for fans attending South Dakota State football games in 2024:
Tips
Here are a few tips for fans attending South Dakota State football games in 2024:
Tip 1: Purchase tickets in advance. Game tickets can be purchased online or at the Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium ticket office. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular games, to ensure that you get the best seats.
Tip 2: Arrive early. The gates to Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium open one hour prior to kickoff. Arriving early will give you plenty of time to find your seats, visit the concession stands, and soak up the pre-game atmosphere.
Tip 3: Dress in layers. The weather in Brookings, South Dakota, can be unpredictable, especially in the fall. It is a good idea to dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Tip 4: Be prepared for a loud and energetic atmosphere. Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium is known for its enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans. Be prepared for a loud and energetic atmosphere, and be ready to cheer on the Jackrabbits.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a great time at your next South Dakota State football game.
The South Dakota State football team is looking forward to a great season in 2024. With a talented team and a challenging schedule, the Jackrabbits are poised to make a deep run in the FCS playoffs. Fans are encouraged to come out to Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium and cheer on the Jackrabbits as they chase their seventh consecutive MVFC championship and a berth in the FCS playoffs.
Conclusion
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits football team is poised for another exciting season in 2024. With a talented team and a challenging schedule, the Jackrabbits are aiming to win their seventh consecutive MVFC championship and earn a berth in the FCS playoffs.
The Jackrabbits’ 2024 season will begin with a high-profile matchup against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium. This will be the first meeting between these two programs since 1959. The Jackrabbits will also face a tough non-conference road trip to face the Air Force Falcons and a first-ever meeting with the Washington State Cougars.
In MVFC play, the Jackrabbits will face a gauntlet of tough opponents, including North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, and South Dakota. The Jackrabbits will need to be at their best every week in order to come out on top.
The Jackrabbits have a strong home field advantage at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. The fans in Brookings are passionate and knowledgeable, and they create a loud and intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams.
The Jackrabbits are confident that they have the team and the mindset to achieve their goals in 2024. They are excited about the challenge and they are looking forward to a great season.
Fans of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits can look forward to a thrilling and memorable season in 2024. The Jackrabbits are poised to make a deep run in the FCS playoffs and bring home another championship to Brookings, South Dakota.