Full Breakdown
South Dakota State Dominates Northern Iowa on Hobo Day
10/12/2025, 12:53:32 PM
Game Overview and Key Performances
On October 11, 2025, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits (SDSU) secured a decisive 31-3 victory over the Northern Iowa Panthers (UNI) at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota. The game, played in front of a season-high crowd of 19,342, marked SDSU's sixth consecutive win, improving their record to 6-0 overall and 2-0 in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC). Meanwhile, UNI fell to 2-4 overall and 0-2 in league play.
Quarterback Chase Mason was instrumental in the Jackrabbits' success, accounting for all four touchdowns—two rushing and two passing. He completed 18 of 30 passes for 249 yards, while the Jackrabbit defense showcased a formidable performance, forcing five turnovers, including four interceptions.
Scoring Breakdown
SDSU took an early lead with Mason's two-yard touchdown run, following an interception by Isaiah Johnson that set up a short field. After UNI managed a field goal, the Jackrabbits responded with another touchdown drive, culminating in another two-yard run by Mason. The first half ended with SDSU leading 14-3.
In the second half, after a brief lull in offensive production, the Jackrabbits regained momentum. Mason connected with Greyton Gannon for a 22-yard touchdown pass and later found Andrew Gustad for an 11-yard score, extending the lead to 28-3. Eli Stader capped the scoring with a 30-yard field goal, bringing the final score to 31-3.
Defensive Dominance
The Jackrabbit defense was a standout, limiting UNI to just 221 total yards and preventing them from reaching the end zone for the third consecutive game in their series. Chase Van Tol led the defensive charge with two sacks and an interception, while Joe Ollman recorded a team-high eight tackles. The defense's ability to capitalize on UNI's mistakes was crucial, as they intercepted quarterback Matthew Schecklman twice and forced a fumble.
Official Statements & Responses
SDSU head coach Dan Jackson praised his team's performance, stating, "It wasn’t perfect, but it was us. We need to continue to get better, but I love how we find ways to get it done." Mason echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of starting strong and maintaining focus throughout the game.
In contrast, UNI head coach Todd Stepsis acknowledged the challenges his team faced, particularly in the wake of injuries to key players. He noted, "We have some more guys that are left in the tank, and it’s just a matter of making sure that we’re getting them into positions where they’re comfortable and can be successful."
What's Next
Following this victory, South Dakota State will travel to Murray State for their next matchup on October 18, 2025. UNI will look to regroup as they prepare to host the University of South Dakota on the same day.
This game not only solidified SDSU's position as a top contender in the FCS but also highlighted the ongoing struggles for UNI, who will need to address their offensive inefficiencies moving forward.