The Incarnate Word Cardinals and South Dakota State Jackrabbits have already clashed once this season, but the playoffs are a different ballgame where anything can happen.
Who will rise to the occasion? Our Incarnate Word vs. South Dakota State prediction covers it all — from the latest betting odds to what’s on the line for both teams as they battle through the FCS quarterfinals.
Incarnate Word vs. South Dakota State FCS Quarterfinals Betting Preview
All Incarnate Word vs. South Dakota State odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024.
- Spread
South Dakota State -20.5 - Moneyline
South Dakota State -1150, Incarnate Word +700 - Over/Under
54.5 points - Game Time
Noon ET, Saturday, Dec. 14 - Location
Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium | Brookings, S. Dak. - Predicted Weather at Kick
27 degrees, 7 mph winds, cloudy - How To Watch
ESPN/ESPN+
The Cardinals have struggled against the spread on the road, going 1-4 in their last five. Meanwhile, the. Jackrabbits have thrived as 15+ point favorites, covering the spread in six of eight contests.
MORE: CFN Betting Parlay Calculator
As for the total, recent trends point to the over:
- Cardinals games have gone over in three of the last five.
- Jackrabbits games have gone over in four of the last five at home.
Prediction for Incarnate Word vs. South Dakota State
UIW gave South Dakota State a run earlier this season, narrowing the deficit to just a touchdown in the fourth quarter before the Jackrabbits pulled away for a decisive 45-24 win. That prior meeting could work in SDSU’s favor, helping them stay sharp and avoid a letdown—especially with a likely semifinal clash in Fargo looming on the horizon.
The weather in Brookings should cooperate for December football, though the early kickoff promises to be brisk. While UIW managed last week’s rain well, the cold presents a new and potentially significant challenge.
SDSU has been nothing short of dominant in recent weeks, living up to their billing as historic three-peat contenders. The offense is firing on all cylinders, powered by a commanding offensive line, a deep and talented backfield, and a rejuvenated Mark Gronowski. Meanwhile, the defense continues to perform at an elite level, nearly matching last year’s high standard.
MORE: Simulate the College Football Season With CFN’s College Football Playoff Predictor
Unless the Jackrabbits succumb to uncharacteristic mistakes, it’s hard to envision the Cardinals staying within striking distance.
To their credit, UIW boasts one of the top quarterbacks in FCS, Zach Calzada. But if SDSU can force their offense into a one-dimensional attack—similar to the last matchup, where UIW mustered just 20 carries for 68 yards—Calzada’s ability to make a significant impact on the scoreboard will be limited.
Expect South Dakota State to control the tempo, secure a comfortable victory, and move one step closer to a likely semifinal rematch with the North Dakota State Bison.
Prediction: South Dakota State 41, Incarnate Word 20
College Football Network has you covered with the latest from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC, and every Group of Five conference and FBS Independent program.
