South Dakota State routs Eastern Illinois behind dominant rushing attack

South Dakota State University secured a 42-7 victory over Eastern Illinois, driven by a dominant rushing performance. Despite starting quarterback Chase Mason being sidelined with a leg injury, the Jackrabbits' ground game produced 408 rushing yards, the highest in a single game for the program since 2021.

Running backs Josiah Johnson and James Basinger led the effort, with Johnson recording 121 yards and two touchdowns, while Basinger contributed 118 yards and two touchdowns. Redshirt freshman Corey Blair Jr. also added an 80-yard performance. The team currently leads the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) in rushing yards per game, averaging 302.4 yards.

Head coach Dan Jackson noted that while the first half was slow and the energy was lacking, the team responded strongly after halftime. The Jackrabbits scored on every first possession of the second half this season, including two quick touchdowns at the start of the third quarter to extend their lead.