VERMILLION, S.D. — In a thrilling finish, Aidan Bouman connected with Javion Phelps on a 25-yard touchdown pass with just 12 seconds remaining, leading South Dakota to a narrow 29-28 victory over the top-ranked North Dakota State in an unforgettable matchup. This victory not only marks a significant win but also secures South Dakota’s first Missouri Valley Football Conference championship.

The Coyotes, who improved to a record of 9-2 and 7-1 in conference play, found themselves trailing 28-17 late in the game. However, Bouman initiated a comeback with a remarkable 40-yard touchdown pass to Jack Martens with 3:22 left on the clock. After regaining possession with 1:16 to go, the Coyotes faced a setback when Bouman was sacked. Undeterred, they quickly regrouped, and Bouman spotted Phelps along the left sideline, who was just shy of the end zone, allowing him to score easily.

This victory is historic for the Coyotes as it is their first win against the Bison in Vermillion since an epic four-overtime game in 2002. Moreover, the Bison had dominated the last five encounters held at the DakotaDome.

Initially, South Dakota surged to a 14-0 lead, powered by two rushing touchdowns from Travis Theis. North Dakota State (10-2, 7-1) managed to equalize the score by the end of the first half, thanks to a 23-yard touchdown pass from Cam Miller to Braylon Henderson followed by a 3-yard rushing touchdown from Miller.

As the third quarter progressed, Miller added a 2-yard touchdown to put the Bison ahead once again, and CharMar Brown capped an impressive 20-play, 99-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown, extending the Bison’s lead to 28-17 with just over four minutes remaining in the game.

In terms of performance, Bouman completed 18 of his 30 passes, gathering 271 yards alongside two touchdown throws. Meanwhile, Miller was 9-for-21 passing with one touchdown and also contributed on the ground, rushing for 82 yards and an additional score.