College football season officially arrived in South Dakota on August 27, 2026, with multiple programs across different divisions taking the field. Thursday’s slate included matchups featuring the state’s Division II and NAIA teams, while the majority of South Dakota’s collegiate programs began their campaigns on Saturday, highlighted by marquee contests in Brookings and Vermillion.
The University of South Dakota Coyotes and South Dakota State University Jackrabbits have emerged as premier programs within the FCS ranks. SDSU captured national championships in 2022 and 2023 and remains a national title contender, while USD has qualified for the playoffs in three consecutive seasons and possesses the talent to compete for a national championship. The rivalry between these two powerhouses, scheduled for Halloween in Brookings, will air on national television and showcase exciting talent including SDSU quarterback Chase Mason and USD running back Charles Pierre, both potential NFL prospects.
Beyond the FCS level, Augustana, Northern State, and the University of Sioux Falls field competitive Division II rosters within the NSIC, while Dakota State and Dakota Wesleyan compete in NAIA. The athletic development across South Dakota has transformed dramatically over three decades. The state now boasts modern, multi-million dollar facilities, multiple programs competing into December, and dozens of native athletes playing professional football each week.
From high school-caliber stadiums to nationally televised games, South Dakota’s football landscape has undergone remarkable expansion since USD and SDSU were Division II institutions toiling in the ultra-tough North Central Conference three decades ago.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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