South Dakota State defeated Montana 35-17 in a complete performance to advance to the FCS quarterfinals. It was the first time in program history that SDSU beat the Grizz in Brookings.
THE Hares were 1-8 all-time against Montana before this game. South Dakota State’s only win in the all-time series came in last year’s FCS national championship game, which SDSU won 23-3.
SDSU’s defense completely stifled Montana’s offense. The Grizz only scored one basket in the first half and rarely found themselves in dangerous positions. South Dakota State consistently held back Montana, totaling five tackles for a loss and also recording two interceptions.
Offensively, quarterback Mark Gronowski and receiver Griffin Wilde were unstoppable in the passing game. Gronowski completed 12 of 16 passes for 151 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also scored two rushing touchdowns. Wilde finished the game with a team-high 114 receiving yards and two touchdowns on seven receptions. He also surpassed the 1,000 receiving yard mark this season in this game.
Here are some takeaways from SDSU’s win over Montana.
South Dakota State’s defense completely stifled Montana
SDSU’s defense was at its best Saturday, opening the door for the Jackrabbits to take control in the first half. South Dakota State’s defense held Montana to just 46 rushing yards in the first two frames. South Dakota State outscored Montana 319-155 in the first half.
SDSU only allowed three points in the first half and, aside from the basket, the Grizz were rarely in scoring position. The only other time Montana was close to its end zone in the first half, Tucker Large caught a pass from Montana quarterback Keali’i Ah Yat. The Grizz looked a little stronger in the second half, adding a few touchdowns late in the game, including one in the final minute of the fourth quarter when the game was already decided.
Adam Bock recorded his second career pick six, returning an interception 40 yards for a touchdown. The defense also constantly pushed the Grizz away, totaling six tackles for a loss. Bryce Hawthorne led the team in TFL with 2.5.
The Griffin Wilde-Mark Gronowski connection was strong today
On the other hand, it seemed like everything was working out for SDSU. The running game has been strong. The Jackrabbits finished the game with 223 rushing yards as Amar Johnson led the way with 103 yards on 16 carries. But South Dakota State was at its best when Gronowski was looking for Wilde.
The duo combined for two touchdown plays of 15+ yards in the second quarter, the second being a 34-yard pass. Wilde was particularly impressive, racking up 110 receiving yards in the first half alone.
Wilde finished the game with 114 receiving yards and two touchdowns on seven receptions. He also surpassed the 1,000 receiving yard mark for the season in this game. Gronowski completed 12 of 16 passes for 151 passing yards and two passing touchdowns.
To be continued
South Dakota State will host the winner of UIW and Villanova next Saturday.
This article was originally published on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: SDSU tops Montana to advance to FCS quarterfinals
