On December 14, 2024, the UC Davis Aggies and South Dakota Coyotes will clash at the DakotaDome as part of the NCAA FCS playoffs quarterfinals, with kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m. CT. This thrilling matchup pits the No. 5 ranked UC Davis (11-2) against No. 4 South Dakota (10-2), marking their fifth face-off since 2009 and the Aggies' hope to break their three-game losing streak to the Coyotes.
Both teams come to the showdown with explosive offenses and stout defenses, making it hard to predict the outcome. South Dakota leads the all-time series 4-2, but the Aggies are optimistic, especially with their powerful playmakers. UC Davis features their standout quarterback Miles Hastings, who has tallied over 4,100 passing yards and 35 touchdowns this season, creating one of the most potent passing games in FCS.
"The Aggies will succeed by getting their playmakers... " according to the College Football Network, highlighting Hastings’ ability to excel in pressing situations. The Aggies average 330.6 passing yards per game, ranking No. 3 among FCS teams, thanks to Hastings and versatile running back Lan Larison, who has combined over 2,200 rushing and receiving yards this season.
On the defensive side, UC Davis has shown significant improvement; their defense has limited recent opponents to under 150 rushing yards four times during the last six games. Linebacker David Meyer plays a pivotal role, leading his team with 113 tackles and showing prowess both on the field and statistically.
For South Dakota, quarterback Aidan Bouman stands at the helm of their offense, boasting impressive statistics: 2,470 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and only two interceptions. Bouman is supported by the dynamic running back duo of Charles Pierre Jr. and Travis Theis, who have accumulated over 2,000 rushing yards combined and 31 touchdowns between them. This backfield is complemented by tight end Carter Bell, who provides safety valves for Bouman on challenging passing downs.
Interestingly, the Coyotes have implemented physicality and style. According to the College Football Network, "The physicality of South Dakota's rushing attack... " is anticipated to challenge the Aggies' defensive front, which has struggled to keep running games at bay throughout the season.
Both teams focus heavily on third downs, with South Dakota converting about 45% of their attempts this season. Meanwhile, UC Davis maintains similar success, indicating which team can bolster their offensive momentum will critically impact the game.
Betting lines currently favor South Dakota (-5.5), and they are 5-0 against the spread over their last five games, maximizing their chances of winning. The total points for the game are set at 57.5, which raises expectations for high-scoring play. The over has hit four of South Dakota's last five games and three of UC Davis’ recent five, pointing to two high-powered offenses ready to clash.
Looking at weather conditions, temperatures are expected to hover around 32 degrees with potential rain and snow, adding another layer of complexity for the players. Will the frigid weather impact their performances or find them favorably adapting to the conditions?
Analysts speculate the winner of this matchup could likely head to the semifinals to face undefeated No. 1 Montana State on December 21. The stage is set for what promises to be not just another chapter, but possibly one of the most memorable games of the FCS playoffs.
With stakes like these, both teams are ensuring they come prepared. "It all starts with... " the surge of their top offensive leaders and how the defenses can handle pressure throughout the match. Expect to see unyielding efforts as they battle for their spot to move forward.
College football fans are gearing up for this electrifying quarterfinal as both teams chase glory. Which streak will be broken: A UC Davis victory ending their rough patch against South Dakota? Tune in at 2 PM CT on ESPN+ to witness the outcome of this highly anticipated clash.
