South Dakota Football vs. Montana State FCS semifinal preview

South Dakota football faces Montana State on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in Bozeman with a trip to the FCS national championship game on the line.

The Coyotes have already had a historic season, winning a share of the Missouri Valley Football Conference title for the first time in program history. They are also playing in the FCS semifinals for the first time.

Here is the story of the bond between the two sides.

No. 4 South Dakota (11-2, 7-1) vs. No. 1 Montana State (14-0, 8-0)

When: Saturday, 2:30 p.m

Where: Bobcat Stadium

TV/Radio: ABC, ESPN+/Coyote Sports Network

What’s at stake: Program history for USD. The Coyotes had a historic season, winning a share of the Missouri Valley Football Conference title for the first time in program history. They are also playing in the FCS semifinals for the first time and advancing to the national championship game would also be a first.

Who is better: Montana State appears to be the better team on paper. They are undefeated and have come through their playoff games well, while South Dakota has had to fight for every postseason win.

The Bobcats lead the nation in total offense and rank in the top 10 in total defense. They average 493.7 yards per game but allow just over 300 yards. Montana State also ranks first in scoring offense and red zone offense, second in rushing offense, top 10 in scoring defense and top 20 in rushing defense.

Matchup to watch: How will South Dakota’s defense withstand an explosive rush? The Coyotes rank 10th in rushing defense, allowing just 107.9 rushing yards per game, but Montana State has proven to be among the best in the FCS when it comes to running the ball. The Bobcats average 307 rushing yards per game.

A large part of their offense relies on the dual-threat ability of their quarterback Tommy Mellott. He is an improved passer, but his true strength lies on the floor. In addition to throwing for 2,430 yards and 28 touchdowns, Mellott also recorded 790 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns. Mellott will be the best quarterback USD has faced this postseason.

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South Dakota Football vs. Montana State FCS semifinal preview

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