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Case makes a splash for Coyotes

—Photo by Bryan Boettcher South Dakota SID South Central Calhoun graduate Kody Case catches a touchdown for the South Dakota. Case was named to the Missiouri Valley Football Conference all-newcomer team.

VERMILLION, S.D. — For the first time in program history, the University of South Dakota competed in the FCS Playoffs.

The season ended for the Coyotes last weekend, as Sam Houston State claimed a 54-42 victory in second-round action.

For South Central Calhoun graduate and USD true freshman Kody Case, the thrill of competing in the postseason was one like nothing he’s ever felt before.

“The playoffs were an entirely different experience,” said Case, a two-time all-state selection for SCC. “It was definitely the most rewarding part of the season, especially considering it was the first time the school has qualified.”

Case, a freshman wide receiver and return specialist, earned a spot on the Missouri Valley Football Conference all-newcomer team. He was the fifth-leading receiver for South Dakota, catching 25 passes for 430 yards. Case’s five touchdown catches tied for second-most on the team.

Along with his plays with the offense, Case also returned 15 punts for 136 yards and 13 kickoffs for 230 more yards.

Case started three games during the year and saw action in 12. Against FBS program Bowling Green, he had three catches for 130 yards and a touchdown, hauling in three passes for 62 yards and two scores against Indiana State.

In the playoffs against Sam Houston State, Case recorded four receptions for 62 yards and a score. His touchdown came in the second quarter and helped get the Coyotes within a score of the BearKats.

“The atmosphere is electric wherever you go,” Case said. “I always remember watching Sam Houston State on TV and seeing how good they were year in and year out.

“It was surreal to actually be there and playing a team like that.”

South Dakota was ranked 18th in the final regular season poll. They went 8-5 this year, including a 4-4 mark in the conference and a 4-1 record at home.

The Coyotes lose quarterback Chris Streveler, but return plenty of firepower alongside Case to expect another strong season next year.

“Our coaching staff is the best in the country and will have us ready to go,” Case said. “We were a young team, so we just need to build on what we have done to this point.

“Personally, I plan on putting on a few pounds but maintaining my speed. I’m going to work on things like press releases and route running during the offseason.”

The South Dakota roster also features former Newell-Fonda all-stater Mason Scheidegger, who is a redshirt freshman offensive lineman.

KODY CASE BY THE NUMBERS

Drake 3-40-1

Bowling Green 3-130-1

North Dakota 0-0-0

Western Illinois 1-28-0

Youngstown State 0-0-0

Indiana State 3-62-2

Illinois State 4-43-0

Northern Iowa 2-25-0

North Dakota State 5-40-0

South Dakota State 0-0-0

Nicholls State 0-0-0

Sam Houston State 4-62-1

Totals: 25-430-5

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