Coach Jimmy Rogers: Embracing the Elements for Success
South Dakota State football coach Jimmy Rogers emphasized the importance of practicing in the elements. The team braved negative temperatures on Monday night and -7 degrees on Friday morning. This tough preparation paid off as Saturday's 32 degrees felt relatively warm. As Rogers quipped postgame, "You know, this is sick, but there's a little bit of joy in other people's misery. If we're going to play in the elements, we have to practice in them... And that didn't faze our guys."The Second Quarter Offensive Explosion
After a 7-0 lead in the first quarter, South Dakota State unleashed a 24-point offensive outburst in the second quarter. Quarterback Mark Gronowski threw a spectacular 35-yard touchdown pass to Griffin Wilde, doubling their lead. Moments later, Matthew Durrance intercepted an Incarnate Word pass and ran it to the 15-yard line, setting up a great scoring opportunity. The Cardinals managed to hold off the SDSU running game initially, but Gronowski then powered his way into the end zone from three yards out. He capped off another drive with a one-yard touchdown run and added three more points with a 35-yard field goal in the final seconds of the quarter, taking a 31-point lead into halftime.This offensive explosion was the turning point of the game, as it put Incarnate Word on the back foot and gave the Jackrabbits a commanding lead. It showcased Gronowski's ability to make big plays and the team's offensive firepower.
The second quarter performance demonstrated the Jackrabbits' ability to execute their game plan and take advantage of scoring opportunities. It was a dominant display that set the tone for the rest of the game.
The South Dakota State Defense's Key 4th Down Stops
The South Dakota State defense was crucial in key moments. When Incarnate Word looked dangerous or was in dangerous positions, the defense came through. In the first quarter, the Cardinals punted from a dangerous fourth-down position instead of going for it, which was a missed opportunity.In the second quarter, Incarnate Word was again in a dangerous position near their end zone, but the Jackrabbits stopped them on fourth down. They managed to stop Incarnate Word on fourth down twice in the first half and a total of five times in the game. This defensive prowess changed the momentum of the game and gave the offense more opportunities to score.
Dalys Beanum emphasized the significance of these stops, saying, "That's huge. When a team thinks they can get it on fourth down and the defense ends up stopping them, that's a huge momentum change, especially giving (the ball) to our explosive offense."
Gronowski on the Verge of FCS History
With this win, Mark Gronowski tied North Dakota State's Easton Stick for the most FCS wins by a starting quarterback with 49. He now has the chance to become the sole record holder with a win in the semifinals next week.Gronowski's performance throughout the game was exceptional. His ability to throw touchdown passes and run for touchdowns was a key factor in South Dakota State's victory. His leadership and determination have taken the team to new heights.
The Jackrabbits' journey to the semifinals is a testament to Gronowski's skills and the team's collective effort. If they can continue this form, they have a good chance of achieving great things in the upcoming games.
Next up, South Dakota State will travel to face the winner of the North Dakota State Mercer quarterfinal in next week's semifinal. The team will be looking to build on their recent success and make a deep run in the FCS playoffs.