FCS Playoffs: South Dakota State vs Villanova Preview and Prediction

South Dakota State quarterback Mark Gronowski named Walter Payton Award finalist. Coach says he's an unbelievable teammate and leader. SDSU prepares for Villanova.

South Dakota State quarterback Mark Gronowski has been named a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, which is given to the most outstanding offensive player in FCS annually. This is a huge accomplishment for Gronowski, who has been an incredible teammate and leader for the Jackrabbits. His level of consistency and performance throughout his career has been unmatched, and he truly deserves this recognition.

Gronowski led the Jackrabbits to a national championship last season and has continued to play at a high level this year, leading them to the quarterfinals of the FCS Playoffs. They are preparing to face the Villanova Wildcats, a familiar playoff foe, in front of a national TV audience on ESPN.

This game is a big opportunity for South Dakota State to showcase their championship poise and solidify themselves as one of the best programs in the FCS to a wider audience. They will be facing a tough and balanced Villanova team, but if they play to their potential, they have a great chance of coming out on top.

One of the key matchups to watch will be the Villanova wide receivers against the South Dakota State trio of Dalys Beanum, DyShawn Gales, and Tucker Large. Villanova's offense is led by fifth-year quarterback Connor Watkins, and they have some elite wide receivers who will pose a challenge for the Jackrabbits' defense.

Overall, South Dakota State has proven to be the best team in the FCS all season long, and if they continue to play at their best, they should come out on top. My prediction is that they will win 35-14.

This is a big moment for the Jackrabbits, and it will be exciting to see how they perform on the national stage. Stay tuned for what is sure to be an intense and thrilling game.