Sat Nov 09 18:50:00 UTC 2024: ## UND Faces Two-Time Defending Champs South Dakota State in Homecoming Matchup

**Grand Forks, ND** – The University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks will look to break a two-game road losing streak as they host the two-time defending national champions, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, at the Alerus Center this Saturday.

The matchup will feature a number of familiar faces, as two former UND players – offensive tackle Sam Hagen and wide receiver Marcus Preston – now suit up for SDSU. Hagen, a Fordville, ND native, transferred to SDSU after the 2023 season, following the departure of UND’s offensive line coach and coordinator. Preston, a senior, has one catch this season for the Jacks.

Adding to the intrigue, two former UND coaches – Danny Freund and Robbie Rouse – are now part of the SDSU staff. Freund, a former UND quarterback and assistant coach, now shares offensive coordinator duties, while Rouse coaches running backs for the Jacks.

The Jacks are led by quarterback Mark Gronowski, a dual-threat player who has accounted for 114 career touchdowns. SDSU head coach Jimmy Rogers acknowledged the threat of UND wide receiver Bo Belquist, calling him “arguably the best wide receiver in FCS football.” Belquist has 48 catches for 754 yards and 9 touchdowns this season.

Despite losing key offensive pieces, the Jackrabbits have found success with running back Angel Johnson, who has emerged as a major threat. Johnson recorded a career-high 132 yards on just 7 carries last week and has scored six touchdowns of 50 yards or more this season.

The Jackrabbits are confident, but Rogers recognizes UND’s need for a win. “They need this win, and they know that,” Rogers said. “We have to play with a certain edge.”

This matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle as UND looks to upset the defending champs in front of their home crowd. Kickoff is scheduled for [Time] at the Alerus Center.

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