USD to host Northern State in season opener

VERMILLION, S.D. (KELO) — College football returns to the area on Thursday as several schools will kick-off their seasons.

That includes an FCS vs. Division II matchup in Vermillion. Fifth-ranked USD is set to host in-state opponent, Northern State in the DakotaDome.

The two teams have played eight times, with the most recent matchup happening 27 years ago. The Coyotes are a perfect 8-0 against the Wolves and they’ll look to keep that streak going, while also starting the season on the right note.

“They’ve got experience at all three levels defensively. They’ve got a lot of experience up front. Offensively, they’ve got some newer players at their skill positions, that they feel really good about,” USD head coach Bob Nielson said.

“They’re really, really good. Coach Nielson and that team is really, really good. We know what we’re getting into with that, we understand what’s going on, but our team has nothing to lose. We’re going to go out and play really hard and get exposed where we’re weak,” Northern State head coach Mike Schmidt said.

USD and Northern State will cross paths at 7 p.m. on Thursday.

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