BROOKINGS, SD — South Dakota State University defensive back Will Whiton, a former all-state gridder at Perry, has seen increased playing time as a redshirt freshman this season. On Dec. 3, Whiton will experience postseason football, as SDSU has joined five-time defending champion North Dakota State, New Hampshire and Sam Houston State as the only schools to qualify for the FCS playoffs each of the past five years.
The Jackrabbits (8-3) defeated Northern Iowa, 45-24, last week to earn a split of the Missouri Valley Conference title with NDSU, who SDSU stunned, 19-17, in the Fargo Dome earlier this season. It is the first MVC crown in school history.
The win over the Panthers helped SDSU seal the No. 8 overall seed in the 24-team FCS playoffs, guaranteeing a first round bye. The Jacks will host the winner of Saturday’s game between St. Francis (PA) and Villanova. A win would create a quarterfinal round rematch with the Bison, who are seeking their sixth consecutive national crown. NDSU will host the San Diego vs. Cal Poly victor Dec. 3.
Whiton has seen some time on defense while appearing primarily on special teams. He is credited with an unassisted tackle, one pass broken up and one pass defended this season, and has returned two kickoffs, including a 31-yard run-back against Northern Iowa.
