USD vs Montana: Fan torn between two teams

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The Montana Grizzlies and the University of South Dakota Coyotes are facing off in the FCS Playoff quarterfinal game Saturday. The game takes place in Missoula.

A Sioux Falls couple will be on the edge of their seats for all four quarters. Like thousands of fans, Tom Johnson, a longtime Sioux Falls lawyer, and his wife, Sue, will be glued to the TV Saturday afternoon at 2:30 for the kickoff.

One thing is for sure: Tom’s alma mater will win.

How can we predict that? If you look closely, you will notice two hats on the table, one USD and one UM. That’s because Tom graduated from both schools. A 4-year degree from Montana and a Law degree from USD. He says the game will be a challenge for the Coyotes because of the venue.

“In Washington Stadium in Missoula, it’s an open-air stadium, and it’s kind of a bowl, and it’s in the mountains, and it just roars when they start cheering. Things just literally shake,” said Tom.

Tom says the stadium is a lot different than the Dakota Dome.

“Missoula is a great team, but I think USD has some momentum. I think it’s going to be a great game,” said Tom

Sue grew up in Vermillion, but has grown fond of UM and its fans.

“Probably USD, maybe Montana. I thought about putting my Griz shirt on with my USD vest over it,” said Sue.

“Shouldn’t it be the other way?” Tom asked.

“No,” said Sue

“It’s going to be a fun game, I’m positive of it, positive it is going to be very competitive, I think the chances are very good for each team,” said Tom.

Tom has a plan for watching the game with friends, and it involves wearing two hats, just one at a time.

“I plan to change for whoever is on the offense, and I hope the time is evenly divided over the two hats,” said Tom.

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