State
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits have done it again! On Saturday, the Jackrabbits won their second consecutive FCS Championship with a 23-3 victory over the Montana State Bobcats. It was a dominant performance by South Dakota State, who outgained Montana State 439-181 in total yards and held the Bobcats to just three points.
The Jackrabbits were led by quarterback Mark Gronowski, who threw for two touchdowns and ran for another. Gronowski was named the Most Outstanding Player of the game, as he completed 22 of his 29 passes for 316 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 73 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
The Jackrabbits defense was also stellar, as they held Montana State to just 181 total yards and forced three turnovers. Linebacker Logan Backhaus was named the Defensive Player of the Game for his performance, as he had six tackles, two sacks, and an interception.
The win marked the Jackrabbits’ second consecutive FCS Championship and their third overall. It was also the first time in school history that South Dakota State has won back-to-back FCS Championships.
South Dakota State head coach John Stiegelmeier was ecstatic after the game, saying, “This is a special group of players and coaches. I’m so proud of them and what they have accomplished. They worked hard all season and it paid off with this championship.”
The Jackrabbits will now look to defend their title next season, as they look to become the first team to win three consecutive FCS Championships. It will be a tough task, but with Gronowski leading the way, anything is possible.
