USD rivalry game just like any other for SDSU’s Sumner
EDITOR’S NOTE: This week The Volante chose to do something different in respect to the upcoming USD football game against SDSU. We interviewed both opposing quarterbacks in order to get an inside look on each player and their team in preparation for Saturday’s game.
Austin Ashlock: What makes a rivalry game different than every other game?
Austin Sumner: I think the tradition behind this game alone makes it important. These two schools have been doing this for over 100 years, so seeing the rebirth of this is really something else.
AA: How does it feel to be leading South Dakota State against the University of South Dakota for the first time since 2003?
AS: For me, this game is just like any other. The whole rivalry thing has been a distraction to be honest. I am just going to approach it mentally like I have everything other game this year.
AA: What’s the difference between a high school rivalry and a college rivalry?
AS: Obviously, the number of people following this game is substantially larger, and it creates more excitement, but this is just another game for me.
AA: What kind of things as a whole team do you need to do differently?
AS: We’re going to just do what we do. That’s something we have preached all year. We will try to work off of our strengths and prepare for this game just like we have every week.
AA: How does having to play in front of a sold-out crowd affect things on the field?
AS: I think it forces us to rise to the occasion. Playing at home in front of our fans will boost us, but I am sure USD will bring a good showing and will add to an already awesome atmosphere.
AA: USD holds a 52-48-7 record all-time against SDSU. Do you think you’ll make it 49 on Saturday?
AS: I am confident every week that our team will come out on top, and this week is no different. So, yes, I think we can come out on top this time.
AA: The state of South Dakota wakes up Sunday morning, what do you expect people to be saying about the game?
AS: They will say that the rivalry is a good thing for the state of South Dakota and that the two teams still have that competitive drive against each other. I don’t think they will be disappointed.
