South Dakota State Football Suffers Upset Loss to Indiana State

On November 1, 2025, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, ranked 5th in the FCS coaches' poll, faced a shocking 24-12 defeat against the Indiana State Sycamores at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium in Brookings, South Dakota. This loss marked SDSU's second consecutive home defeat, ending a remarkable 33-game home winning streak. The Jackrabbits fell to 7-2 overall and 3-2 in conference play, while Indiana State improved to 3-6, snapping a six-game losing streak and achieving their first win over SDSU since 2011.

SDSU football: Indiana State stuns JackrabbitsArgus LeaderZimmer: No sugarcoating it, this was one of South Dakota State's worst losses in yearsESPNIndiana State stuns South Dakota State in Brookings

The game began with South Dakota State taking an early lead with a 44-yard field goal by Eli Stader. However, Indiana State quickly responded with a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Rashad Rochelle, giving the Sycamores a 7-3 lead that they maintained throughout the game. Despite outgaining Indiana State nearly 2-to-1 in total yardage (441 to 228), SDSU struggled with turnovers and red zone inefficiencies, failing to convert on multiple scoring opportunities.

Rochelle scores three times, defense comes up with three turnovers in win at No. 4/5 South Dakota State

Rochelle was instrumental for Indiana State, scoring three touchdowns, including two receiving touchdowns and the pivotal kickoff return. The Sycamores' defense, led by Kimal Clark and Nic Yatsko, effectively contained the Jackrabbit offense, allowing only one touchdown.

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SDSU head coach Dan Jackson acknowledged the team's mistakes, stating, “Credit to coach [Curt] Mallory and Indiana State. They just made the plays to win the football game. … At the end of the day, the only stat that matters is the score.” He emphasized the need for improvement, particularly in creating explosive plays and maintaining focus during critical moments.

Indiana State stuns South Dakota State in Brookings

Indiana State's coach, Curt Mallory, celebrated the victory, noting it as a significant achievement for the program, especially against a ranked opponent.

Rochelle scores three times, defense comes up with three turnovers in win at No. 4/5 South Dakota State

The loss has drawn criticism from fans and analysts alike, with many labeling it one of the worst defeats in SDSU's Division I history. The Jackrabbits were expected to dominate against a team that had struggled in conference play, and the failure to capitalize on scoring opportunities has raised concerns about the team's direction as they approach the final stretch of the season.

Zimmer: No sugarcoating it, this was one of South Dakota State's worst losses in years

Looking ahead, South Dakota State will face the University of South Dakota on November 8, 2025, followed by a home game against Illinois State and a road matchup against North Dakota. The Jackrabbits must win at least one of these games to secure a playoff spot, as their recent performance has jeopardized their postseason aspirations.

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• “I think we need to have some urgency going into next week.” — Joe Ollman, SDSU Linebacker

Indiana State stuns South Dakota State in Brookings

• “I think we need to take a deep dive [into the offensive struggles] even more.” — Dan Jackson, SDSU Head Coach

Indiana State stuns South Dakota State in Brookings

The Jackrabbits' path forward will require a reassessment of their strategies and a renewed focus on execution to avoid further setbacks in their quest for a successful season.

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