The highly anticipated 22nd Annual Dakota Marker Game is set to take place on Saturday, October 25, at 7 p.m. at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota. This rivalry features the top two ranked teams in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision, with No. 1 North Dakota State (NDSU) and No. 2 South Dakota State (SDSU) both holding impressive 7-0 records. The stadium will host an excited crowd of 19,300 fans, eager to witness SDSU’s 33-game home winning streak.
Ticket and Tailgating Information
While tickets are sold out at the SDSU box office, they are still available through Seat Geek, the official ticket partner. Fans planning to tailgate can find spaces for $10 per car and $50 per RV or truck at the corner of Medary Avenue and 11th Street. SDSU’s tailgating policy prohibits hard liquor and glass bottles, but wristbands from the tailgating tent will be valid inside the stadium. Tailgating areas will open at 2 p.m.
Television and Radio Coverage
The game will be broadcast live on ESPNU, featuring play-by-play commentator Richard Cross, analyst Taylor McHargue, and reporter Tori Petry. Additionally, fans can tune in to the Pioneer Seeds Bison Sports Network, starting at 6 p.m. with Sam Neidermann, Phil Hansen, and Noah Gindorff providing the coverage.
A Historic Rivalry
This upcoming match marks the 118th meeting between NDSU and SDSU, making it the 10th most-played rivalry in FCS history. NDSU leads the series with a record of 65 wins, 47 losses, and 5 ties. Notably, the Bison defeated the Jackrabbits 13-9 in the last encounter, which took place in Fargo last October.
Stats and Recent Performance
- NDSU has won four consecutive games on the road.
- SDSU’s current home winning streak stands at 33 games, the fourth-longest in FCS history.
Recent Game Highlights
Last week, North Dakota State outperformed Indiana State, scoring 38 unanswered points for a decisive 38-7 victory. The Bison’s defense was a strong highlight, shutting out the Sycamores in the second half.
Player Highlights and Rankings
Quarterback Cole Payton of NDSU currently leads the FCS in several statistical categories, including passing efficiency and completion percentage. Running back Barika Kpeenu ranks high in scoring and rushing touchdowns, showcasing NDSU’s offensive strength.
National Impact
This matchup holds significant importance, not only as a rivalry game but also as the first in Missouri Valley Football Conference history between teams both holding a 7-0 record. The outcome could significantly impact playoff seeding and national recognition.
The Dakota Marker, a 75-pound replica of historical quartzite monuments, symbolizes the fierce competition between these programs since they began their Division I journey. As fans gear up for this crucial showdown, the atmosphere promises to be electric.
