FCS Playoffs 2018: Underdogs steal show in quarterfinals
By Zach Bigalke
No. 5 South Dakota State Jackrabbits best No. 4 Kennesaw State Owls
If any team has a shot to take down North Dakota State this year, it could just be No. 5 South Dakota State. The Jackrabbits downed No. 4 Kennesaw State on the road 27-17 to advance to the semifinals. The result is a clash with their Missouri Valley rival for a spot in Frisco in the NCAA Division I championship game.
Kennesaw State made a furious comeback bid at the end, but they fell short as the Jackrabbits scored a late insurance touchdown to ensure another playoff clash against their rivals. The Owls racked up 312 rushing yards against South Dakota State, but it wasn’t enough after spotting the Jackrabbits a 20-3 lead through the first three quarters.
Taryn Christion went 12-of-18 for 147 yards with a touchdown and a pick, while adding another 37 yards and a score on nine rushing attempts. Pierre Strong Jr. led the way on the ground for the Jackrabbits, piling on 112 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries.