The North Dakota State Bison football team celebrated another significant victory this past Saturday, defeating their long-time rivals, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, with a score of 28-21. This dramatic win earned the Bison their 11th trip to the FCS national championship game scheduled against Montana State on January 6.
The game, played at NDSU's home field, showcased the competitive spirit and rich history of rivalry between the two teams. The Bison, known for their strong defensive line, maintained this reputation with the 588th quarterback sack recorded since defensive coach Nick Goeser joined the staff way back in 2010. The final highlight of the game came on fourth-and-17 when Jaxon Duttenhefer and Loshiaka Roques combined efforts to take down Jackrabbits quarterback Mark Gronowski, effectively ending South Dakota State's season.
Goeser shared his excitement about heading back to the championship: "Never gets old. It’s such a great venue and spectacle; everything about it is just a phenomenal experience. I’m excited this team and this group of guys can experience what this game is all about." This sentiment echoed among the coaching staff, as head coach David Polasek praised Goeser’s contributions, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to developing players over the years.
The game was memorable not just for the outcome but also for the performances on the field. Bison quarterback Cam Miller played efficiently, and wide receiver Bryce Lance made headlines by pulling off an impressive one-handed catch for the game-winning touchdown. This remarkable play highlighted Lance’s potential as he finished the game with three touchdowns and 125 receiving yards.
"The catch was something special, and I’m just glad I could help my team win," Lance said, demonstrating the teamwork and determination embedded within the Bison culture.
The dramatic win against South Dakota State wasn't just about student-athletes; it was equally about the tradition and dedication from the coaching staff at NDSU, including dynamic new hires like safeties coach Devin Klieman. Klieman's mentorship has significantly impacted players like junior Ryan Jones, who has seen his role expand this season. "He’s been coming on the last three, four weeks; that's coaching, inspiring them to be the best they can be," Polasek remarked.
Despite the heartbreak for the opposing side, South Dakota State recognized the fierce nature of the rivalry. Quarterback Mark Gronowski reflected, "Every single game we played against them was always back and forth, always hard-fought and physical." This acknowledgment of mutual respect highlights the essence of college football rivalries.
With their impressive performance this season, the Bison ended the campaign with significant achievements and were well-prepared as they gear up for their national championship showdown against Montana State. The players are set to resume practice shortly after taking some time off around the Christmas holiday.
Goeser reiterated the need for focus as they transition to preparations for their next game. "We're going 100 miles per hour leading up to the championship game,” he stated, demonstrating the unwavering resolve the Bison embody as they seek their 10th national title since 2011. The upcoming matchup against Montana State is more than just another game; it is another opportunity for the Bison to cement their legacy within college football.
