The 2024 college football season kicked off for the Oklahoma State football team with a challenging test against the two-time reigning FCS national champion, South Dakota State. The Cowboys took on the Jackrabbits in their season opener at Boone Pickens Stadium on Saturday.

The anticipation was high as both teams showcased their top players. Oklahoma State boasted Heisman Trophy hopeful, running back Ollie Gordon II, while South Dakota State featured quarterback Mark Gronowski, the recipient of the Walter Payton Award last year, given to the top player in the FCS.

It was a historic first meeting between the Cowboys and Jackrabbits. The game displayed intense competition right from the start. Ollie Gordon II set the tone for Oklahoma State with a touchdown that capped off a long drive. However, South Dakota State swiftly responded with a touchdown of their own, as Mark Gronowski connected with Grahm Goering for a 21-yard strike. This cut the Cowboys' lead to 24-13 with 9:10 left in the third quarter.

Gronowski showcased his prowess, accumulating 154 passing yards on 13-of-19 completions. Meanwhile, Ollie Gordon II continued to shine for the Cowboys, scoring his second touchdown of the game on a pass out of the backfield. Breaking tackles and displaying his agility, Gordon's 22-yard touchdown reception extended Oklahoma State's lead to 24-6 with 10:46 remaining in the first quarter.

At halftime, Oklahoma State held a 17-6 advantage over FCS No. 1 South Dakota State. Quarterback Alan Bowman displayed accuracy, completing 16-of-19 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown. Ollie Gordon II contributed with 47 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Brennan Presley led the receiving corps with six catches for 25 yards.

The game was closely contested, with South Dakota State accumulating more yardage than Oklahoma State in the first half. However, the Cowboys' defense held up admirably, limiting the Jackrabbits to a pair of field goals.

Despite several drives into South Dakota State territory, Oklahoma State failed to score on one occasion, maintaining their 17-6 lead. On the flip side, the Jackrabbits also saw a promising drive stall in field goal territory, resulting in a 48-yard field goal by Hunter Dustman.

As the first half concluded, Oklahoma State's offense had outgained South Dakota State by a narrow margin of 141-117 yards. Both teams showed resilience and determination as they battled for supremacy on the field.

The outcome of this challenging season opener will serve as a testament to the strength and competitiveness of both the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Fans eagerly anticipate the rest of the 2024 college football season and how these teams will fare in their respective campaigns.