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South Dakota Coyotes prepare to host Central Connecticut State on Saturday

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 2:38 PM

Last updated Aug 26, 2026

College Sports

Summary

The South Dakota Coyotes will begin their 2026 football season against Central Connecticut State on August 29. This matchup at the DakotaDome in Vermillion marks the first meeting between the programs. Under new head coach Matt Vitzthum, the Coyotes look to continue a trend of success, having achieved three consecutive ten-win seasons. Central Connecticut State enters the game as defending Northeast Conference champions. Both teams aim to set a positive tone for their upcoming seasons.

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By the Numbers

•USD is ranked No. 12 in the FCS.
•The game is set for 1 p.m. at the DakotaDome.
•USD has a 2-2 record against FCS opponents in season openers.
•CCSU has made consecutive FCS playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025.
•USD will start seven true or redshirt freshmen in this game.

Latest Updates

2:38 PMYahoo Sports — Preview: USD set to host Central Connecticut State to begin season

What they're saying

"
Aug. 26—VERMILLION, S.D. — The South Dakota Coyotes will kick off their 2026 football season under first-year head coach Matt Vitzthum on Saturday, welcoming Central Connecticut State to the DakotaDome for a Week 0 clash and the first-ever meeting between the two programs. This matchup also marks just the fifth time that USD has opened with an FCS opponent, being 2-2 in those contests. How to ...
— Yahoo Sports

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