SDSU dominates USD 31-21, but late rally keeps playoff rematch alive

South Dakota State defeated South Dakota 31-21 on Saturday in Brookings, ending a three-quarter dominance with a narrow final margin that complicates the narrative of total control. While the Jacks held a 28-0 lead after three quarters, the Coyotes scored the final 21 points of the game to close the gap, creating a scenario where the two teams could meet again in the playoff bracket.

The statistical disparity was stark. South Dakota State outgained South Dakota 459-252 and held a 227-19 advantage in rushing yards. These numbers suggest a team that controlled the line of scrimmage and the pace of the game for most of the contest. However, the final scoreline does not reflect the intensity of the closing minutes, where the Yotes forced the Jacks to work for every point.

The fourth-quarter performance mirrors a previous season when South Dakota State recovered from a 35-0 deficit against Illinois State. That game saw the Jacks score the final 21 points to threaten a comeback. Coaches and players at the time credited that resilience for helping them overcome a 14-0 deficit against North Dakota the following week. The current trajectory suggests a similar dynamic is at play in the 2026 season.

South Dakota remains in contention for a home playoff game, though its chances likely rely on securing a specific result in its remaining schedule. South Dakota State is positioned for a top-four seed, a placement that could force a rematch in the postseason. If the bracket aligns, the game would be played in Brookings, where the Jacks have lost only one home playoff game since 2019.

The rivalry has taken on a personal tone since the final whistle. South Dakota State players attended the postgame press conference wearing coyote pelts, and team social media accounts shared videos of the squad holding up stuffed animals. These actions serve as bulletin board material for the Coyotes, who are now focused on their upcoming travel game.

"Absolutely," said South Dakota linebacker Wade Abrams regarding the prospect of a rematch. "I mean, this rivalry means a lot in the state of South Dakota. If we don't want to play them, I think it's an issue. We showed it in the second half that we can absolutely play these guys. And yeah, I'd love another shot at these guys."

South Dakota head coach Matt Vitzthum addressed the external perception of his team's standing. He acknowledged that many observers are counting his squad out of the championship race but urged them to let that doubt fuel their preparation. "Tighter than ever," Vitzthum said of the team's response. "I know everybody's gonna count our team out. That's fine, count us out. Count us out. We'll be right here where we're supposed to be, playing the game the way it's supposed to be played."

The conference standings after Week 10 show Youngstown State and South Dakota State both at 7-2 overall. South Dakota sits at 7-3, while Illinois State is 7-2. Northern Iowa trails at 4-4, and North Dakota is 6-4. Southern Illinois is 4-5, Indiana State is 2-7, and Murray State is 1-8.

Week 11 action begins with South Dakota State traveling to play Northern Iowa. Illinois State will face North Dakota, Southern Illinois will play Indiana State, and Youngstown State will take on Murray State. These results will determine the final seeding positions for the FCS playoff field.

The outcome of the remaining games will solidify the bracket. A South Dakota victory over Illinois State is critical for its home game hopes, while a South Dakota State win at Northern Iowa keeps its top-four seed within reach. The path to a potential Round 2 meeting in Brookings depends on these specific results.