In a display of college football prowess, South Dakota State University has been named the top team in the preseason FCS Coaches’ Poll for the upcoming 2024 season. The Jackrabbits, who have won back-to-back national championships, received all but one first-place vote, showcasing their dominance heading into the new season. They are currently riding a remarkable 29-game win streak.
Joining South Dakota State in the top five are North Dakota State, Montana, Montana State, and South Dakota. Notably, North Dakota State and Montana are returning powerhouses, representing three of last year’s four FCS semifinalists in the upper ranks. The complete top five includes:
- 1. South Dakota State
- 2. North Dakota State
- 3. Montana
- 4. Montana State
- 5. South Dakota
As the season unfolds, South Dakota State will face a tough schedule that includes six ranked opponents, challenging their winning streak. Among these are No. 15 UIW in Week 2 and a critical stretch in October that features No. 23 Youngstown State, No. 2 North Dakota State, and No. 5 South Dakota.
The Big Sky Conference is also making headlines, boasting four teams in the top 10, including No. 3 Montana and No. 4 Montana State, promising an exciting rivalry dubbed the Brawl of the Wild at the end of the season. Also in the top ten are conference champions No. 6 Villanova and No. 9 Furman, with an interesting placement seeing No. 8 Chattanooga outrank Furman despite the latter’s conference championship last year.
Another noteworthy mention is Florida A&M, the only HBCU represented in the top 25, successfully securing a lone first-place vote. The Rattlers won the Celebration Bowl last season, making them a team to watch as the season progresses. With new matchups and potential upsets on the horizon, fans can expect a thrilling year as FCS football kicks off.
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
