The UC Davis Aggies have matched up against the South Dakota Cyclones four times (2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015) — and are currently riding a three-game losing streak. Can they finally break the drought in the FCS quarterfinals?
Our UC Davis vs. South Dakota preview dives into everything you need to know — from the latest betting odds to what’s on the line for both teams in this high-stakes matchup.
UC Davis vs. South Dakota FCS Quarterfinals Betting Preview
All UC Davis vs. South Dakota odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024.
- Spread
South Dakota -5.5 - Moneyline
South Dakota -210, UC Davis +175 - Over/Under
57.5 points - Game Time
3 p.m. ET, Saturday, Dec. 14 - Location
The DakotaDome | Vermillion, S. Dak. - Predicted Weather at Kick
32 degrees, 5 mph winds, rain and snow - How To Watch
ESPN+
The Coyotes are 5-0 against the spread in their last five contests. The Aggies are 3-0 ATS as underdogs on the year. Which streak will snap on Saturday?
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The total is a bit more straightforward according to recent trends:
- The over has hit in four of South Dakota’s last five games overall and its last five home bouts.
- The over has cashed in three of UC Davis’ past five outings.
Prediction for UC Davis vs. South Dakota
This matchup feels like a chess match between two evenly matched teams, each boasting dynamic backfields, elite playmakers, and stingy defenses. The deciding factor might come down to which quarterback steps up in high-pressure moments.
Both offenses thrive on third down, converting around 45% of their opportunities, making those critical situations pivotal. However, South Dakota’s defense has shown some vulnerabilities lately, allowing North Dakota, North Dakota State, and Tarleton to score roughly 30 points apiece.
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South Dakota’s offense is led by a formidable quartet: QB Aidan Bouman (69% completion rate, 9.5 YPA, 16 TDs, 2 INTs), RBs Charles Pierre Jr. (151-1,154-15 rushing) and Travis Theis (155-976-16 rushing), and WR Carter Bell (46-685-3 receiving).
UC Davis counters with its own four-player attack, anchored by do-it-all back Lan Larison (277-1,425-17 rushing, 61-842-6 receiving) and QB Miles Hastings (70.2% completion rate, 8.9 YPA, 35 TDs, 8 INTs).
Ultimately, the Coyotes’ strength in the trenches might be the difference, giving them the edge to push through to the semifinals. The Aggies are known for taking risks (13 fourth-down attempts this season), but their struggles to capitalize (just three conversions) could prove costly in a tight battle.
Prediction: South Dakota 34, UC Davis 31
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