South Dakota State Defeats Montana, Wins Back-To-Back FCS National Championships

No. 1 South Dakota State (15-0, 8-0 MVFC) defeated No. 2 Montana (13-2, 7-1 Big Sky), 23-3, to win the 2024 FCS National Championship. 

It was another dominant performance on both sides of the ball for the Jackrabbits. Montana's offense finished the game with only 259 total yards and only scored three points. The Grizzlies struggled to run the ball as the Jackrabbits held Montana to 47 rushing yards on 30 carries. 

South Dakota State was led by linebackers Adam Bock (11 Tackles) and Jason Freeman (9 Tackles). The Jackrabbits also forced three turnovers, including an interception by cornerback Dalys Beanum. Clifton McDowell was sacked five times, led by Quinton Hicks and Cade Terveer with 1.5 sacks each. 

Quarterback Mark Gronowski was named the MVP for the second consecutive season. He completed 13-of-21 attempts for 175 passing yards, one passing touchdown, 53 rushing yards, and one rushing touchdown. 

Running back Isaiah Davis led the Jackrabbits with 87 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Wide receivers Jaxon and Jadon Janke combined for nine receptions for 121 receiving yards and one touchdown. 

The Jackrabbits extended their winning streak to 29 games, including back-to-back FCS national title game victories. It was the second national championship in school history.