Our North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State prediction centers on one of college football’s most storied and intense rivalries: the Dakota Marker game. Unsurprisingly, the 119th edition sees the two teams ranked as the No. 1 and No. 2 programs in the FCS, with more than just rivalry bragging rights at stake. Who wins? Let’s dive into the keys behind the action.
North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State Details
- Date: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
- Game time: 8 PM (ET)
- Location: Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium | Brookings, S.D.
- Predicted weather at kick: Cloudy and high 40s at kickoff
- How to watch: ESPNU/ESPN2
North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State Head-to-Head Record
Last season, the Jackrabbits entered the rivalry riding a five‑game winning streak over the Bison, but North Dakota State snapped that run with a gritty 13‑9 victory in Fargo. The Bison then followed it up with another close win, defeating South Dakota State 28‑21 in the FCS semifinals.
This year’s showdown adds yet another layer of intrigue, as the Jackrabbits put their remarkable 33‑game home winning streak on the line, the longest active streak in the FCS and the fourth‑longest in subdivision history.
With both teams again among the nation’s elite, the latest chapter of this storied rivalry promises to deliver another high‑stakes battle fitting of the Dakota Marker legacy.
Top Players To Watch in North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State
Chase Mason Question
The biggest storyline heading into Saturday centers around the health of SDSU quarterback Chase Mason. The Senior signal-caller has waited his time behind Mark Gronowski and has been the engine of the Jackrabbits’ offense this season, throwing for 1,419 yards, 11 touchdowns, and just one interception, while also adding four rushing scores.
Mason’s dual-threat ability has allowed the Jacks to stay balanced and unpredictable, but his availability remains uncertain. If he can’t go, redshirt freshman transfer Luke Marble would make his first start. Marble is a talented passer with a strong arm.
Still, his limited experience, both at the college level and within SDSU’s system, would make things difficult against a North Dakota State defense that thrives on confusion and pressure.
If Mason does suit up, the Jackrabbits’ offensive line will be key. Ranked No. 9 nationally in PFF’s pass-blocking grades, this unit has done an excellent job protecting Mason all season. If they can give him time, SDSU could find success spreading out the Bison defense and attacking through the air, which in turn would open up running lanes for Julius Loughridge.
Jackrabbits’ Front Seven
While Mason’s status dominates the headlines, the battle up front could define the game. South Dakota State’s defensive line has been among the best in the FCS, both in stopping the run and creating pressure. The linebacker trio of Cullen McShane, Joe Ollman, and Chase Van Tol has been nothing short of elite, combining range, physicality, and high football IQ.
They’ll need to be at their absolute best to slow down a North Dakota State offense that’s averaging 43.6 points per game, the top mark in the FCS.
North Dakota State’s Offensive Explosion
This season, NDSU has been virtually unstoppable. The Bison lead the FCS in offensive success rate (58%), meaning they stay ahead of the chains better than anyone else, and rank first in yards per play (7.77), showing they’re not just efficient but explosively dangerous.
A big reason for that dominance is quarterback Cole Payton, who’s playing at an MVP level. Payton has thrown for 1,565 yards, 11 touchdowns, and one interception, while adding 475 rushing yards and six more scores at 6.7 yards per carry.
He’s also the nation’s most accurate passer, completing 74% of his throws, and he’s been absurdly efficient on deep balls– 22-of-32 (68.7%) for 732 yards on passes traveling 20+ yards downfield, averaging 22.9 yards per attempt. In short, every time Payton airs it out, expect big things to happen.
Key Weapons for the Bison
While Payton is the headline star, the supporting cast has been just as vital. Bryce Lance continues to emerge as one of the premier deep threats in the FCS, averaging 20.5 yards per reception, stretching defenses, and giving Payton the confidence to take shots downfield. His frame gives secondary players fits, and with his elite athleticism, he turns into a nightmare matchup for opposing defensive coordinators.
Another X-factor has been running back Barika Kpeenu, who’s quietly put together a very good season with 601 yards and 11 touchdowns. Kpeenu has come through in the biggest moments, providing NDSU with a physical and reliable option when the passing game softens up the defense.
North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State Prediction
This rivalry rarely disappoints, and both teams are playing championship-level football. If Chase Mason is healthy, SDSU’s experience and defensive strength could make this another classic. But if Mason can’t go, it’s hard to bet against the most explosive offense in the country, led by the best player in the FCS, Cole Payton.
Really hoping Mason can play so we get to see best on best. North Dakota State is the most complete team in the FCS regardless. South Dakota State is a close 1B, but let’s ride with the hot hand and predict the Bison to squeak by with too many question marks for the Jack Rabbits.
Prediction: North Dakota State 31, South Dakota State 27
