South Dakota Aims for Fourth Consecutive 10‑Win Season

Quarterback Competition Kicks Off

The Coyotes have moved into a wide‑open quarterback race after All‑American Aidan Bouman graduated. Head coach Matt Vitzthum says the battle will continue into fall camp among three contenders: Nevan Cremascoli, Austyn Modrzewski, and Jackson Proctor. The coach emphasized that the entire staff will back whatever decision is made, and receiver Tysen Boze praised the mobility of all three signal‑callers compared with the previous quarterback.

Boze added that this year’s quarterbacks will likely rely on their legs more than in past seasons, hinting at a potentially faster, more dynamic offense. The competition is expected to sharpen each player as the team looks to maintain the momentum from the recent string of winning campaigns.

Running Back Returns to Fuel the Ground Game

Charles Pierre Jr. is set to rejoin the lineup after missing the 2025 season with a knee injury. Vitzthum highlighted Pierre’s eagerness to prove himself, noting the back’s determination to be a clear threat at the start of the year. Boze described Pierre as a “machine” and a hard worker who will make the receiving corps’s job easier. With teams likely to load the box, Pierre’s presence adds a critical element to South Dakota’s offensive attack.

The return of the former starter not only restores depth but also gives the offense a proven capace to balance passes and runs, a challenge the Coyotes have yet to fully address.

Defense Positioned as Anchor of the Season

Defensive lineman Nathan Laperi says South Dakota’s philosophy is built around physicality, with solid linebackers and depth at every spot. The unit is viewed as the backbone that will offset any offensive uncertainty. Coach Vitzthum praised the defensive effort, indicating confidence that the squad can hold its own against MVFC foes. This emphasis on a rugged, hard‑hitting defense is intended to keep the Coyotes competitive even if the passing game fluctuates.

The defensive strength also aligns with the team’s recent success, as consistent play on that side of the ball has been a key factor in the recent 10‑win streaks.

Preseason Poll Shows High Expectations

South Dakota enters the new campaign ranked fifth in the MVFC preseason poll, reflecting high expectations from analysts. That placement signals confidence that the program can repeat or improve upon the three consecutive 10‑win seasons it has just completed. The ranking also sets a clear target for the coaching staff and players as they prepare for a challenging schedule.

Maintaining or climbing in the poll will depend on how the quarterback battle resolves, how Pierre’s comeback unfolds, and whether the defense lives up to its reputation.

Overall, the Coyotes possess the pieces—new arms, a returning back, a physical defense, and a solid preseason ranking—to pursue another winning year under Matt Vitzthum’s direction.