
Charleston, S.C. — For the first time ever, the Citadel is hosting North Dakota State University at Johnson Hagood Stadium. The reigning champion Bison inked a two-year home and home series with the Bulldogs in 2023 that was set to take place between the 2025 and 2027 seasons and it is finally coming to fruition.
“This game is not only big for the Citadel but also for Charleston and the tourism industry,” Head Coach Maurice Drayton said at the Southern Conference’s Media Day.
An army of Bison fans are expected to make the nearly 1,600 mile journey from Fargo to Charleston which could help the Citadel sellout Johnson Hagood. NDSU Head Coach Tim Polasek recently stated that at least 5,000 NDSU fans will be in attendance, marking almost half of the 12,000 seat capacity that Johnson Hagood has to offer.
Despite the large number of Bison fans expected to make the trip, Coach Drayton is strong on Bulldogs fans and cadets alike to show up in a large quantity that will paint Johnson Hagood with an overwhelming blue as compared to the North Dakota green.
Heading into the matchup, Coach Drayton is expected to name his starting quarterback with speculations pointing to Air Force transfer Quinten Hayes as the starter. Running back Corey Ibrahim will be missing the game, which could poise an interesting situation for the Bulldogs, considering the Bison defense returns preseason All-American DE Toby Anene and All-Conference linebacker Logan Kopp.
The Citadel will open as 7.5-point underdogs against NDSU.
More updates will come as starting rosters are announced later this week. Tickets are still available for purchase but less than 2,000 remain. Make sure to grab yours today before it’s too late!