South Dakota State University (SDSU) is a public research university located in Brookings, South Dakota. The university’s football team, the Jackrabbits, competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level as a member of the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC). The Jackrabbits have a rich history of success, having won multiple conference titles and made numerous appearances in the FCS playoffs.
As a passionate fan of SDSU football, you’ll want to stay up-to-date on the team’s upcoming schedule. This comprehensive guide will provide you with an in-depth look at the Jackrabbits’ 2023 football schedule, highlighting key matchups, rivalries, and potential impacts on the conference standings.
Overview of the South Dakota State Football Schedule
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits will embark on a challenging 2023 football schedule, facing a mix of conference opponents and non-conference foes. Here’s a quick overview of the upcoming season:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| September 2 | Butler | Brookings, SD |
| September 9 | North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND |
| September 16 | Illinois State | Brookings, SD |
| September 23 | Southern Illinois | Carbondale, IL |
| September 30 | North Dakota State | Fargo, ND |
| October 7 | Missouri State | Brookings, SD |
| October 14 | Western Illinois | Macomb, IL |
| October 21 | Youngstown State | Brookings, SD |
| October 28 | Indiana State | Terre Haute, IN |
| November 4 | South Dakota | Brookings, SD |
| November 11 | Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls, IA |
As you can see, the Jackrabbits will face a mix of conference opponents, including perennial powerhouses like North Dakota State and Northern Iowa, as well as non-conference matchups against Butler and North Dakota.
Key Matchups and Rivalries
Among the key matchups on the Jackrabbits’ schedule, the following stand out:
- North Dakota State (September 30): This in-state rivalry game against the Bison is always a highly anticipated contest. NDSU has been a dominant force in the FCS, and the Jackrabbits will be looking to upset their conference foe on the road.
- South Dakota (November 4): The “Dakota Marker” rivalry game between SDSU and the University of South Dakota is another must-watch event. These two schools have a long-standing rivalry, and the game often has significant implications for conference standings and playoff positioning.
- Northern Iowa (November 11): The Jackrabbits will travel to Cedar Falls to face the Panthers, who are consistently one of the top teams in the MVFC. This late-season matchup could have a significant impact on the conference title race.
Home and Away Games
The Jackrabbits will host five home games at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota, and play six away games throughout the 2023 season. The home games provide an excellent opportunity for fans to show their support and create a lively atmosphere, while the away games will test the team’s resilience and ability to perform on the road.
Notable Opponents
In addition to the key rivalries, the Jackrabbits will face several other notable opponents throughout the season:
- Butler (September 2): The Bulldogs are a non-conference opponent, and this game will serve as the season opener for the Jackrabbits.
- Illinois State (September 16): The Redbirds are a perennial contender in the MVFC and will provide a tough challenge for the Jackrabbits at home.
- Southern Illinois (September 23): The Salukis are another strong MVFC team, and this road game will test the Jackrabbits’ ability to win away from Brookings.
- Missouri State (October 7): The Bears are an up-and-coming program in the MVFC, and this home game will be an important conference matchup for the Jackrabbits.
Potential Impact on Conference Standings
The Jackrabbits’ performance in these key matchups will have a significant impact on their standing within the MVFC. A successful season could propel them to the top of the conference and secure a high seed in the FCS playoffs. Conversely, a few tough losses could make it more challenging to earn a postseason berth.
Travel Tips for Fans
If you’re planning to attend any of the Jackrabbits’ away games, here are some travel tips to consider:
- Transportation: Research transportation options, such as renting a car or utilizing public transportation, to get to the game locations.
- Accommodations: Book your hotel or other lodging well in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
- Game-day Preparations: Familiarize yourself with the opponent’s stadium and plan your arrival and tailgating activities accordingly.
- Fan Gear: Pack your SDSU gear and show your Jackrabbit pride at the away games.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Tickets for the Jackrabbits’ home games can be purchased through the SDSU Athletics Ticket Office. Prices vary depending on the opponent and seating location, but generally range from $20 to $40 for adult tickets.
For away games, you can purchase tickets through the opposing team’s ticket office or explore options for group tickets and travel packages. Be sure to check the opponent’s website for the most up-to-date ticket information and pricing.
Conclusion
The 2023 South Dakota State Jackrabbits football schedule promises to be an exciting and challenging one. With key matchups against conference rivals, non-conference opponents, and the potential for a deep playoff run, this season is sure to be one that SDSU fans won’t want to miss.
