The enduring resilience of a century-old football rivalry
In short: Since 1889, the South Dakota Coyotes have navigated conference shifts, wartime hiatuses, and a massive leap in division. Now a force in the Missouri Valley, they are proving that even the oldest rivalries can find a powerful second act.
The University of South Dakota football program is a study in institutional endurance. Founded in 1889, the Coyotes were charter members of the North Central Conference in 1922, a home that lasted 86 years. Their history is marked by significant transitions, including a two-year hiatus in 1943 and 1944 due to World War II, and a major structural move in 2008 when they ascended to the NCAA Division I FCS level.
While the program has navigated various conferences—including the Great West and now the Missouri Valley Football Conference—their most storied connection remains with the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Few college football matchups are as ancient, particularly regarding two public universities within the FCS. Although the series paused between 2003 and 2012 when the Jackrabbits moved to Division I, the competition resumed in 2012, with the Jackrabbits currently leading the all-time series 58–53–7.
The program's recent trajectory suggests a period of significant ascent. Under the leadership of ex-coach Bob Nielson, the squad overcame early Missouri Valley difficulties to qualify for four FCS postseasons from 2017 to 2024. The 2024 campaign marked a milestone, as the Coyotes clinched their inaugural Missouri Valley championship and advanced to their first FCS playoff semi-final. This modern success follows a long legacy of talent, with 18 former players drafted into the NFL, including Super Bowl champion linebacker Jack Cochrane.
Home games are held at the 9,100-seat DakotaDome, which has hosted the team since 1979. The facility has undergone significant investment, most notably a $26 million renovation between 2019 and 2021 that rebuilt the west side with new suites and expanded locker rooms. As of 2025, further plans are already in motion to continue renovating the stadium's west side.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: South Dakota Coyotes football
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