South Dakota State University faced a tough defeat against North Dakota State, losing 28-21 in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs. The game had several key moments that shifted momentum, particularly a fumble by running back Amar Johnson in the second quarter when SDSU was leading 14-7. This turnover allowed North Dakota State to capitalize and tie the game.
Despite holding a chance to score before halftime, the Jackrabbits decided to take a knee instead of attempting a Hail Mary pass. Head coach Jimmy Rogers explained that this decision was influenced by quarterback Mark Gronowski’s arm injury. Though Gronowski showed resilience, completing 14 of 25 passes for 204 yards and rushing 15 times, his health was a concern for the coaching staff.
Rogers acknowledged that his team’s energy and defensive performance were lacking, allowing North Dakota State to score more points than they had in any game through the season. Gronowski noted that the team failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities during the match.
On the other side, North Dakota State showcased an impressive performance with quarterback Cam Miller completing 13 of 19 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns, while Bryce Lance distinguished himself with three touchdown receptions, including a remarkable one-handed catch.
This game also marked the end of the season for several seniors, including Gronowski, Johnson, and Adam Bock, all of whom expressed deep appreciation for their time at South Dakota State. Bock described his choice to attend the university as the best decision of his life, highlighting the strong bonds formed within the team.
South Dakota State concluded the 2024 season with an impressive record of 12-2, promising a bright future for the program as they look to rebuild and refine their strategy for the next season.
In summary, despite the loss, the Jackrabbits displayed resilience and camaraderie, creating a strong bond that will carry forward into the future. The lessons learned and the experiences shared will certainly help shape a competitive team next season.