Pierre and Bryant each score in the 4th to help South Dakota beat Southern Illinois 31-10

VERMILLION, S.D. (AP) — In a game that showcased strong performances from multiple players, South Dakota emerged victorious over Southern Illinois with a final score of 31-10 on Saturday. Charles Pierre Jr. played a pivotal role in the win, rushing for 138 yards and contributing to one of the Coyotes' two fourth-quarter touchdowns.

His 12-yard touchdown run sealed the score with 8:31 remaining on the clock. Wide receiver Tennel Bryant added to the team's lead early in the fourth quarter with a 44-yard touchdown run, extending the South Dakota advantage to 24-10. Quarterback Austyn Modrzewski's impressive performance, completing 16 of 20 passes for 268 yards, including a crucial 56-yard touchdown pass to Bryant in the second quarter, further solidified the Coyotes' lead.

South Dakota's quarterback, Jackson Proctor, demonstrated his all-around skills by also rushing for a touchdown. Southern Illinois' DJ Williams contributed 179 passing yards and scored a touchdown, while Chandler Chapman ran for 86 yards on 21 carries. The Coyotes, currently ranked tenth in the Stats Perform poll, secured their second win in conference play this season.

Southern Illinois, who will face Illinois State in their next game, will be looking to bounce back from their 3-4 record.