Preseason nsIC Football CoaChes Poll
Preseason Release For Immediate Release
August 3, 2016 www.northernsun.org
#NSICFB
Nick Kornder • Asst. Commissioner for Media Relations • 2999 County Road 42 West • Burnsville, MN 55306 • P: 651.288.4017 • [email protected]
Minnesota State University, Mankato Tabbed NSIC Preseason Coaches’ Favorite
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
BURNSVILLE, Minn. - Minnesota State University, Mankato was selected by the league coaches as the overall and south division preseason favorite in the NSIC for 2016. The Mavericks received 11 first place votes and amassed 216 points, 18 points ahead of Augustana (198) and 22 points ahead of Minnesota Duluth (194), which garnered a first place vote and was the coaches’ top choice in the north division. Sioux Falls was picked fourth overall (192) and received two first place votes. Northern State and SMSU also received first place nods in the preseason poll. The NSIC football schedule will be broken into two divisions (north/ south). Each team will play 11 conference games that will count towards the NSIC Overall Championship as well as seven divisional games that will count towards the NSIC North/South Division Championships. In all, three league champions will be awarded (Overall Champion, North Division Champion, South Division Champion). Ties will not be broken for overall or division champions.
Overall Points 1. Minnesota State (11)....................... 216 2. Augustana ...................................... 198 3. Minnesota Duluth (1)..................... 194 4. Sioux Falls (2)................................ 192 5. Bemidji State ................................ 153 6. Northern State (1)........................... 143 7. Southwest Minnesota State (1) ...... 140 8. Winona State .................................. 139 9. St. Cloud State ............................... 132 10. MSU Moorhead............................. 97 11. Upper Iowa ................................... 88 12. Wayne State .................................. 71 13. Concordia-St. Paul......................... 52 14. Minot State ................................... 44 15. University of Mary........................ 40 16. Minnesota Crookston.................... 21 first place votes in ( )
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
North Division Points 1 Minnesota Duluth (6)....................... 47 2. Bemidji State (1)............................. 42 3. Northern State (1) ........................... 35 4. St. Cloud State................................. 31 5. MSU Moorhead............................... 28 6. Minot State...................................... 19 7. University of Mary.......................... 12 8. Minnesota Crookston...................... 10 first place votes in ( )
South Division Points 1. Minnesota State (6).........................47 2. Augustana .......................................40 Sioux Falls (1).................................40 4. Southwest Minnesota State (1)........30 5. Winona State....................................27 6. Upper Iowa......................................18 7. Wayne State.....................................14 8. Concordia-St. Paul............................8 first place votes in ( )
The NSIC is a 16-team, 18-sport, NCAA Division II Conference with teams located in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Players of the Year
#7 Jordan Hein (QB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Perham, Minn. / Perham HS)
#97 Chad Stoterau (DL, 6-4, 285, Sr., Garretson, S.D. / Garretson HS) - 2015 All-NSIC First Team - Started all 11 games for the Wolves - Recorded 51 tackles, 25 unassisted and 26 assisted - Second on the team with 6.0 tackles for a total loss of 28 yards - Added 3.5 sacks for a total loss of 22 yards - Anchored the NSU defense which led the NSIC in red zone defense - Notched a season high nine tackles and two sacks versus BSU on Nov. 14
#2 Trey Heid (QB, 6-2, 195, Sr., Lakeville, Minn. / North HS)
#48 Marcus Gooden (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., Belvidere, Ill. / Belvidere HS) - Finished the 2015 season second on the team in tackles with 58 - Tallied a season-high eight tackles in wins over UMD and UMC - Recorded three interceptions, tied for second best in south division - Started in seven games last season, including final six games of the season - Recorded at least five tackles in seven games last season. - Returned an interception against Winona State 32 yards, which led to an MSU touchdown on the next play
- 2015 All-NSIC First Team - Led all NSIC starting quarterbacks with four interceptions - Ranked in the top 10 in seven BSU all-time single-season categories - Set BSU single-season records for attempts, completed passes and total offense - Finished fifth in the NSIC in touchdown passes with 22 - Ranked sixth in the NSIC in total offense (270.6) and passing yards (218.8) - Rushed for 570 yards and eight TDs to rank second and first on BSU - Converted a career-high five passing touchdowns Oct. 17 at MSU Moorhead - Threw for 250+ yards in five games and 200+ yards in eight - Twenty-six touchdown passes shy of setting the BSU career record
- 2015 NSIC Offensive Player of the Year - Led the NSIC in total offense, averaging 338.6 yards per NSIC game - Ranked second in the NSIC in passing yards with 301.5 ypg - Set the Augustana single season record with 3,493 passing yards - Finished second in the NSIC tossing a career-high 29 touchdowns - Led the NSIC and was second in nation with a 171.2 passer efficiency - Rushed for 408 yards and five touchdowns in NSIC play - Threw a season-high five touchdowns against Concordia-St. Paul - Led the nation averaging 10.18 yards per completion - His 63 career touchdowns are 10 shy of the career record at Augie
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews Augustana University Vikings
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners Standings 9-3, 9-2, 6-1 South 10 Off / 6 Def 28 Off / 28 Def t-2nd Overall t-1st South Team Preview Augustana is coming off a 9-3 season in 2015, marking just the second season in program history with nine or more wins. The Vikings made their fourth NCAA Playoff appearance in program history and earned a share of the NSIC South Division Championship with a 6-1 record in divisional play. Augustana ended the season ranked in the top 25 of two national polls. The Vikings were ranked No. 24 in the AFCA Top 25 Poll and No. 20 in the final D2football.com poll. Augustana returns 10 starters from an offense which set single season records for total offense (5,527 yards), passing yards (3,603), points scored (494), and touchdowns (64) in 2016. Leading the offensive charge will be NSIC South Division Preseason Offensive Player of the Year Trey Heid. Heid was named the offensive player of the year in 2015 in the NSIC after throwing for a career-high 29 touchdowns and a single season record 3,493 yards. Heid’s top two targets, Charlie Hayes and Matt Heller, return in 2015. Hayes hauled in 73 passes for 1,127 yards and 12 touchdowns and Heller caught 53 passes for 1,089 yards and 10 scores. On the defensive side of the ball, Augustana returns six starters, including 2015 All-NSIC First Team selection Bryson Hamilton. Augustana’s defense forced 23 turnovers last season, ranking fifth in the NSIC with 13 interceptions. The Vikings allowed just 146.8 rushing yards per game and finished the year with 24 sacks. Players to Watch #2 Trey Heid (QB, 6-2, 195, Sr., Lakeville, Minn. / North HS) #94 Bryson Hamilton (DE, 6-4, 225, Sr., Clear Lake, Iowa / Clear Lake HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 vs. Northern State – 1 p.m.
CONCORDIA University, St. Paul Golden Bears
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners Standings 1-10, 0-7 South 8 Off / 6 Def 21 Off / 16 Def t-13th Overall 8th South Team Preview Concordia embarks on a new (and old) era in 2016 with the return of 2003 NSIC Coach of the Year Shannon Currier to the CSP sidelines. Currier led the Golden Bears for four years from 2000-03 and is the only coach in program history to produce four consecutive winning campaigns. He also led Concordia to its first NSIC football championship in 2003 which led to the program’s first-ever postseason game, the first of three trips to the Mineral Water Bowl (2003, 2005, 2010). His 32-12 record at CSP places him eight wins shy of the program record while his .727 winning percentage ranks first. In year one in his return to the program, Currier has welcomed three new full time assistant coaches with Mike McElroy tabbed as defensive coordinator from the University of Minnesota. Offensive assistants are Jon Medlo (OL), a 2000 CSP graduate who had been on the Hamline staff and Houston Jones (WR) who joins the program from Dakota Wesleyan. The full time staff is rounded out on the defensive side by retaining defensive line coach Joe Lardinois. Between the lines, sophomore Alquawn Vickers has received preseason All-America recognition (Lindy’s) and was a third team All-America pick last year as a redshirt freshman (Don Hansen) when he was among the nation’s top return specialists (11.0 PR, 25.6 KR, 2 TD) while also being a threat on offense (37-463, 3 TD). Sophomore Terrell Taylor anchors the offensive line as a returning starting tackle while Bruce Russell adds impact as a returning skill player. On defense, Sam Johnson and Dominic Nabak bring the right blend of experience and mentality to be leaders on McElroy’s unit. Players to Watch #5 Alquawn Vickers (WR/RS, 5-8, 168, So., Ft. Pierce, Fla. / Central HS) #33 Sam Johnson (LB, 6-2, 218, Sr., Appleton, Wis. / Appleton East HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 vs. UMary - 6 p.m.
Last Year
Bemidji State University Beavers Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
7-4, 6-1 North 11 Off / 8 Def 26 Off / 22 Def 6th Overall t-1st North Team Preview Bemidji State completed the 2015 season in a tie for the NSIC North Division Championship and sixth in the overall standings. The Beavers tied a program record with six consecutive wins between Sept. 26-Oct. 31. BSU snapped Northern State’s own six-game winning streak on Nov. 14 with a 41-24 win to secure a share of the north division title. The entire Beavers’ starting offense, including six All-NSIC members, returns from a season that was the program’s most productive since 2006. Quarterback Jordan Hein enters his junior season as NSIC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, climbing his way up the all-time program charts in his first season as the full-time starter. He finished with 30 total touchdowns, which ranks second all-time in BSU’s single-season record book, and just four interceptions for the fewest in the NSIC. Also returning is the NSIC Defensive Newcomer of the Year Gunner Olszewski at defensive back. The sophomore nabbed seven interceptions to rank second in the conference, including tying a BSU single-game record with three against Minot State Oct. 31, and led the Beavers with 85 total tackles. Bemidji State will replace just three starters on defense that returns three All-NSIC members. The “Gang Green” defense finished third in the NSIC allowing 348.5 yards and 19.1 points per game. Head Coach Jeff Tesch enters his 21st season with the Beavers after leading the team to its second division title in four seasons. Players to Watch #7 Jordan Hein (QB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Perham, Minn. / Perham HS) #36 Gunner Olszewski (DB, 6-0, 170, So., Alvin, Texas / Alvin HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Upper Iowa – 6 p.m.
University of Mary Marauders
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners 1-10, 1-6 North 7 Off / 6 Def 20 Off / 20 Def Team Preview
Standings t-12 Overall t-6th North
While wins may have been a struggle to find last season for the University of Mary, the year allowed the Marauders coaching staff to provide valuable playing experience to its young roster. The Marauders can count on 40 players with collegiate experience entering the 2016 season, including 20 on each side of the ball. Led by 13 seniors, including FB Zach Podoll, the team also returns 12 juniors and 16 sophomores. A two-year starter at tight end, Podoll switches to fullback this season in a new-look offense for UMary. The All-NSIC North performer caught 37 passes for 313 yards and a touchdown last year. SR RB Zach Graves is a multi-purpose back that collected over 1,000 yards in all-purpose yardage, running for 341 yards, catching passes for 348 and returning kicks for 340. JR WR Brennan Doan caught a team-leading 42 passes for 377 yards. SO Nick Benshetler started all season on the offensive line last year as a true freshman. SR Landon Smith was a stalwart defensively for the Marauders in 2015. The defensive end from Stanley, N.D., was among the NSIC leaders last season with 12 tackles for loss. SR LB Austin Bolton was second on the team with 81 tackles and third with 6.0 tackles for loss. SR DB Danielle Whitaker posted four interceptions while JR CB Jacob Parker had 13 pass breakups. Parker also had 44 tackles, including 3.0 for loss, and two interceptions. Players to Watch #22 Zach Podoll (FB, 6-3, 235, Sr., Velva, N.D. / Velva HS) #10 Jacob Parker (DB, 6-1, 190, Jr., Las Vegas, Nev. / Arbor View HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 at Concordia-St. Paul - 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews University of Minnesota Crookston Golden Eagles
Last Year 1-10, 1-6 North
Returning Starters Letterwinners 7 Off / 6 Def 15 Off / 20 Def
Standings
t-13th Overall
t-6th North Team Preview Minnesota Crookston will look to improve on a 1-10 season in 2015 as they head into the 2016 campaign, their fourth under Head Coach Mike Fritze. The Golden Eagles return one of their most experienced teams in recent years as they look to move up the standings in 2016. Minnesota Crookston returns seven starters on offense. The Golden Eagles are led by 2015 All-NSIC North Second Team pick Dre Person, who rushed for over 750 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior. In addition, UMC returns Adam Connette at wide receiver and four starters on the offensive line. Defensively, the Golden Eagles return six starters from last season. Minnesota Crookston is spearheaded by its secondary, led by Dion Wallisch, Jake Newman and Ali Alkhatib. In addition, the Golden Eagles return Bubba Cook, Jake Christopherson and Isaiah Armstrong on the line and Chuck Lofquist at the linebacker spot. Players to Watch #30 Dre Person (RB, 6-0 205, Sr., Detroit, Mich. / Detroit Central HS) #20 Dion Wallisch (DB, 5-11 185, So., Oakdale, Minn. / Tartan HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Winona State - 6 p.m.
Letter winners 19 Off / 18 Def
Team Preview
Standings 4th Overall t-1st North
A 9-3 season would be considered a rousing success for many collegiate programs, but that’s not the case for UMD. The Bulldogs posted that mark last fall and did manage to claim a share of their eighth consecutive NSIC North title along the way. They even ended the year with a 30-22 victory over Fort Hays State in the Mineral Water Bowl and were ranked 23rd in the final 2015 d2football.com poll. Still, UMD failed to do something which it had done every year since 2008, secure a NCAA II playoff bid, and the Bulldogs are fully determined that does not happen again in 2016. UMD, which is under the direction of fourth-year head coach Curt Wiese, welcomes back 52 lettermen from a year ago, including 10 starters on offense and five on defense. Headlining the list of holdovers is senior quarterback Drew Bauer, who suffered a season-ending injury last October but still wound up sporting the 11th best pass efficiency rating in the country (155.5). He’ll enter his final collegiate goaround having generated both the fourth most all-time total yards (8,086) and passing yards (5,640) in team history. Peter Bateman, a three-time All-NSIC tackle, anchors an offensive line that didn’t lose a starter from 2015 while Beau Bofferding, who paced the 2015 Bulldogs in receptions (30) and all-purpose yards (1,025) and junior Nate Ricci (17 receptions) are expected to be among Bauer’s primary go-to guys. Senior inside linebacker Beau Bates, one of four returning 2015 All- NSIC first team picks (along with Bateman, Bofferding and defensive end Karl Finkel), reigned as UMD’s leading tackler last fall and will be a main cog in the Bulldog ball-stopping efforts again this season.
Players to Watch #9 Drew Bauer (QB, 6-2, 215, Sr., Inver Grove Heights, Minn. / Eagan HS) #43 Beau Bates (LB, 6-0, 230, Sr., Excelsior, Minn. / Minnetonka HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Southwest Minnesota State - 7 p.m.
Minnesota State University, Mankato Mavericks
Last Year Returning Starters 10-2, 10-1, 6-1 South 5 Off / 5 Def
University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners 9-3, 8-3, 6-1 North 10 Off / 5 Def 27 Off / 25 Def
Standings 1st Overall t-1st South
Team Preview Minnesota State claimed its third NSIC Championship in the last four seasons as it went on to finish the 2015 season with a 10-2 overall record. The Mavericks, who saw their 40-game NSIC winning streak end last season, made their fourth straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament where it fell to Emporia State 51-49 at Blakeslee Stadium. Despite seeing their conference winning streak snapped last season, the Mavericks will carry a 22-game road winning streak into the 2016 season, which dates back to week one of the 2012 season. The MSU offense will see a pair of wide receivers return who topped 500 receiving yards a season ago in seniors Ty Dennis and Brent Esser. Dennis, who garnered All-NSIC Second Team honors last year, led the Mavericks with 793 receiving yards and six touchdown catches, while Esser notched 523 receiving yards and five touchdown catches. On defense, the Mavericks return senior linebacker Marcus Gooden, who finished second on the team in tackles with 58 last season. Gooden also hauled in three interceptions. Junior defensive end Evan Perrizo also returns for the Purple and Gold after finishing second on the team in tackles for loss last season with nine. Perrizo, who also tallied 4.5 sacks last season, recorded a team-high three fumble recoveries. Defensive back Jared Gillespie, who claimed All-NSIC First Team honors, returns for his senior season after posting 24 tackles and an interception last season. Players to Watch #85 Ty Dennis (WR, 6-3, 220, Jr., Burlington, Wis. / Burlington HS) #48 Marcus Gooden (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., Belvidere, Ill. / Belvidere HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Minot State – 6 p.m.
Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons
Last Year 6-5, 3-4 North
Returning Starters 7 Off / 7 Def
Letter winners 15 Off / 17 Def
Standings t-7th Overall 5th North
Team Preview MSU Moorhead finished 6-5 overall in 2015, marking the Dragons’ first winning record since 2006. MSUM ended the 2015 season with two consecutive wins to secure the winning record. MSUM opened the season at 3-0, marking the Dragons’ first 3-0 start since 1987. Included in that start was a thrilling 35-34 win over Augustana, which qualified for the playoffs. The Dragons return two quarterbacks with starting experience, senior Jake Hodge and junior Demetrius Carr. Hodge went down with a season-ending injury after Week 2 in 2015 with Carr taking over for the rest of the season. Senior Cory Ambrose and junior Damon Gibson return to anchor the receiving corps. Sophomore Herman Gray is the top returner at running back. On the offensive line, senior Jack Bixler. junior Damien Crawford and sophomore Andrew Erickson provide the Dragons with an experienced nucleus. On defense MSUM also returns seven starters, led by senior defensive lineman Ryan Dahleen and senior linebacker Aaron Bohl. Junior defensive lineman Jake Busse was named to the All-NSIC North Division Second Team while Gibson, junior linebacker Abe Roehrich and sophomore Joe Rademacher were honorable mention selections in the north division. MSUM is entering its sixth season under the direction of Head Coach Steve Laqua. Players to Watch #9 Damon Gibson (WR, 6-4, 220, Jr., Beardsley, Minn./Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley HS) #95 Ryan Dahleen (DL, 6-2, 247, Sr., Palos Hills, Ill./Stagg HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Wayne State - 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews Last Year
Minot State University Beavers Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
1-10, 1-6 North 8 Off / 7 Def 15 Off / 12 Def t-13th Overall t-6th North Team Preview Minot State finished tied for 13th overall in the NSIC in 2015 and tied for 6th in the NSIC North. The Beavers will be bolstered by two returning starters who sat out in 2015 due to injury, senior quarterback Zac Cunha and junior defensive back Bryce Broome. Cunha played just three plays in the opener last season before an injury and will be back for a fifth season. He was 2-for-2 passing for 32 yards on that series and has thrown for 6,232 yards and 41 touchdowns in four years. Broome has 58 career tackles and two career interceptions. MISU’s defensive unit returns its top tackler from 2015 in senior linebacker Trevin Swensen. Swensen finished with 101 tackles with 6.5 for loss and a sack. MISU also returns its top rusher for the past three seasons in senior Jarvis Mustipher. He has 1,797 yards and eight touchdowns in his career. Minot State will have some depth at quarterback this season as the injury to Cunha last season forced the Beavers to use multiple signal callers with senior Jose Escobar throwing for 631 yards and six touchdowns and sophomore Isaiah Weed finishing with 346 yards and two scores. The Beavers also return all-conference punter senior Aaron La Deaux, who was second in the NSIC with a 40.6 punting average. MISU will look to continue to be stingy in the pass game as the Beavers finished second in the NSIC in 2015, allowing just 182.8 yards passing. Players to Watch #16 Zac Cunha (QB, 6-3, 230, Sr., Rocklin, Calif. / Roseville HS) #5 Trevin Swensen (LB, 6-0, 213, Sr., Shelley, Idaho / Shelley HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota State - 6 p.m.
University of Sioux Falls Cougars
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners Standings 9-3, 9-2, 5-2 South 11 Off / 5 Def 24 Off / 24 Def t-2nd Overall 3rd South Team Preview Sioux Falls has made two consecutive postseason appearances and will go for a third in 2016. The Cougars will try for a 23rd consecutive winning season, which is unmatched in NCAA DII and 5th best active streak across all divisions. Led by Jed Stugart (53-16), USF has had nine or more win in three of four season, at DII where USF is 35-11. It is an experienced squad that will be led on offense by the league’s only two-time Harlon Hill candidate Luke Papilion, who is on the verge of cracking all of USF’s all-time passing marks. Arguably the NSIC’s top dual threat, Papilion led all NSIC QBs in rushing yards with 854, he threw for 3K and had a league-high 30 TD passes as he is a two-time total offense leader in the NSIC. The Cougars, which averaged 472.1 ypg, also return nearly their entire offensive front, led by AllNSIC center Trevor Wescott and All-American Antonio Green. It is a group that led the NSIC and DII in sacks allowed with five. The tight end corps is led by All-NSIC Nicholas Stanke with all-league HB Brady Rose and HM All-league WR Josh Angulo leading the receiving corps. On defense, USF, which led the league with 39 sacks and 20 int., returns HM All-league DE Westly Johnson, who was second in the NSIC with 11.5 sacks, and had 16 TFLs. Also back will be All-league DE Evan Gentry (5.5 sacks, has five sacks three straight years) with the secondary led by strong safety Josh Butler, who was All-NSIC and had the most tackles (104) by a USF player in D2 era. Players to Watch #15 Luke Papilion (QB, 6-5, 225, Sr., Denver, Colo. / Cherry Creek HS) #44 Westly Johnson (DE, 6-5, 225, Sr., Grand Rapids, Mich. / Grand Rapids HS)
First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at St. Cloud State - 6 p.m.
Last Year
Northern State University Wolves Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
6-5, 6-1 North 10 Off / 8 Def 20 Off / 25 Def 9th Overall T-1st North Team Preview Northern State opens the 2016 season after a co-NSIC North Division crown in 2015. NSU went 6-5 overall and 6-1 in North Division play after defeating No. 18 Minnesota Duluth, 23-15, in late October. The win snapped a previous 26-game loss streak to the Bulldogs. The Wolves return a multitude of talent in All-Conference performers Conner Doherty, Tyler Robel, Channing Barber, Chad Stoterau, Taylor Zemlicka, Joe Parsley, and Nick Murphy; as well as Don Hansen All-Americans Doherty and Barber. Doherty was second on the team in 2015 with 514 yards receiving, tallying 41 catches and three touchdowns, while averaging 12.5 yards per catch and 46.7 yards per game. Barber led the team in 2015 with five interceptions and 74 return yards. He was third on the team with 65 total tackles and added 2.5 tackles for a loss, 18 pass break-ups and 23 pass deflections. NSU was second in the league in fourth down conversions and led the NSIC in red zone defense. Northern State seniors Conner Doherty and Chad Stoterau was tabbed as the NSIC Players to Watch in 2016. Doherty is a 3-year starter for the Wolves, as well as a 3-year All-NSIC First Team performer. Stoterau is a 2-year starter for NSU and a 2-year All-NSIC First Team performer. Northern State opens the 2016 season on the road versus Augustana, and will return home to face Southwest Minnesota State in the 2nd Annual Ag Bowl on September 10th. The match-up with the Mustangs will be featured on ESPN3 and the Watch ESPN App. Players to Watch #85 Conner Doherty (TE, 6-3, 250, Sr., Brookings, S.D. / Brookings HS) #97 Chad Stoterau (DL, 6-4, 285, Sr., Garretson, S.D. / Garretson HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 at Augustana - 1 p.m.
Southwest Minnesota State University Mustangs
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners 8-3, 4-3 South 7 Off / 6 Def 25 Off / 18 Def
Standings T-4th Overall 4th South
Team Preview SMSU had one of its best seasons in school history in 2015 compiling a record of 8-3. The eight victories were the highest in school history at the Division II level and are tied for second most overall in program history SMSU returns junior starting quarterback Blake Gimbel, who garnered All-NSIC South honorable mention honors a season ago during his first year as a starter. Gimbel set a school single-season record, completing 66.4 percent of his passes for 3,053 yards and 26 touchdowns with seven interceptions. Senior running back Ashanti Payne is the team’s top returning rusher after amassing 771 yards and five touchdowns on 153 carries. He finished the season with four 100yard rushing games. SMSU returns its top seven receivers from last season, including junior wide receiver Nate Huot, who has earned All-NSIC South honorable mention accolades last season. He led the Mustangs in receptions (63), yards (830) and touchdowns (nine) last season. Senior left tackle Grant Greenfield—a 2016 preseason second team All-American—leads the offensive line having played in every game the past three years. He was named AllNSIC South first team and CCA All-Super Region 3 second team in 2015. On defense, SMSU returns its top two tacklers and the team’s leader in interceptions. Senior linebacker Tyler Flud earned All-NSIC South first team honors after registering a team-high 85 tackles and five sacks. Senior safety Caleb Leichtnam recorded a team-leading four interceptions and finished second on the team with 77 tackles. Players to Watch #14 Blake Gimbel (QB, 6-4, 215, Jr., Marshalltown, Iowa / Marshalltown HS) #27 Tyler Flud (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin Derham Hall HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota Duluth - 7 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews St. Cloud State University Huskies
Last Year 6-5, 4-3 North
Returning Starters Letter winners 6 Off / 7 Def 15 Off / 19 Def
Team Preview
Standings t-7th Overall 4th North
St. Cloud State brings back several of its key offensive skill position players in quarterback Nate Meyer, wide receiver Jameson Parsons and running back Jaden Huff for the 2016 season. Parsons is coming off a historic season where he led the NSIC in receiving yards (1,272) and became just the fifth player in school history to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a season. He already has received some preseason accolades and was selected to Lindy’s First Team 2016 Division II Preseason All-American Team. Meyer became just the fifth player in school history to throw 20+ touchdowns in a season with his 22 TD tosses last year. Huff ranked second in the conference with his 13 rushing scores. The team will rely heavily on the trio while breaking in three new starters along the offensive line. The team also returns seven defensive starters led by the dynamic outside linebacker duo of Brady Westart and Craig Szymanski. Westart led the team in tackles (79) and sacks (7.5), while placing second in tackles for loss (10.5). Szymanski was the squad’s leader in tackles for loss (12) while totaling 65 tackles and 4.5 sacks. Huff, Westart, Meyer and Mitch Knutson have also taken on additional leadership responsibilities as the team captains this season. Head Coach Scott Underwood returns for his ninth year leading the program. He has produced a winning record in each of his first eight seasons and has the second-most wins in school history with his 64 victories.
Players to Watch #11 Jameson Parsons (WR, 6-2, 205, Sr., Eagan, Minn. / Eagan HS) #44 Craig Szymanski (LB, 6-3, 235, Jr., Farmington, Minn. / Rosemount HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Sioux Falls – 6 p.m.
WAYNE STATE COLLEGE Wildcats
Last Year 4-7, 1-6 South
Returning Starters Letter winners 7 Off / 6 Def 30 Off / 23 Def
Standings 12th Overall 7th South
Team Preview Wayne State is looking to stay healthy entering the 2016 season. The Wildcats went through three quarterbacks and battled numerous injuries throughout the second half of last season, resulting in a 4-7 record after starting the year 3-1. Seven starters return on offense led by junior quarterback Zach Osborn, who broke his thumb on his throwing hand in the second game last year at Minnesota Duluth after throwing for 5,440 yards in his first two years in a Wildcat uniform. WSC returns its top wide receiver in junior Marcel Dunson, who hauled in 45 catches for 544 yards and six TD’s. The Wildcats need to replace 1,000 yard rusher Ryan Ludlow (graduated) from last season, who ranked third in the NSIC with 1,039 yards and seven TD’s. Senior right tackle Shane Finley, a 2015 All-NSIC South Division First Team selection, returns to anchor the Wildcat offensive line. On defense, the Wildcats return six starters but lost their top two tacklers (Jon Davis and Nate Kroupa) to graduation. Sophomore defensive end Logan Weinandt had a strong second half last season and ranked third on the team in tackles for loss and sixth in total tackles. The top returning tackler is junior linebacker DeWayne Scott, who had 47 tackles and 7.0 tackles. The Wayne State secondary returns three starters, led by sophomore cornerback Jamaal Conway-Smith, tied for fourth last season in the NSIC in passes defended with 15 to go with a team-high three interceptions. Players to Watch #10 Zach Osborn (QB, 6-0, 185, Jr., Harlan, Iowa / Harlan HS) #95 Logan Weinandt (DE, 6-5, 255, So., Wynot, Neb. / Hartington Cedar Catholic HS)
First game Thursday, September 1 at MSU Moorhead – 6 p.m.
Upper Iowa University Peacocks
Last Year 6-5, 3-4 South
Returning Starters Letter winners 8 Off / 6 Def 47 Off / 14 Def
Team Preview
Standings t-7th Overall t-5th South
Dimitri Morales (QB) returns for his second season with the Peacocks after suffering a season-ending injury during Upper Iowa’s first-ever win over Winona State. Morales was named the NSIC Player of the Week after the victory with 378 passing yards and three touchdowns, as well as 39 yards rushing and two touchdowns. In his seven games, Morales threw for 2,244 yards (320.6 ypg) and 16 touchdowns and rushed for 180 yards and 6 scores. Tate Thompson will return for his final season with UIU and anchor the defense from his safety position. Thompson was third on the team in total tackles with 68 including 38 solo stops and recorded two interceptions. The Forest City, Iowa product also returned 17 punts including a 44-yard touchdown return against Minnesota Crookston. The Peacocks also return four All-NSIC performers from last year’s squad in the form of seniors Jalen Chambers (2nd Team OL), Jalen Amis (Hon. Mention WR) and Trey MacTaggart (Hon. Mention WR), as well as junior punter Nate Skare (2nd Team). The Peacocks finished their 2015 season with a 6-5 overall record marking their third straight winning season. Upper Iowa’s 3-1 record against the NSIC North Division included wins over Northern State, Minnesota Crookston and the University of Mary and a near-upset of then #25 UMD. In the games against the South Division, the Peacocks picked up wins over Concordia-St. Paul, Winona State and Wayne State. The Peacocks, who only had five winning seasons between 1966’s 8-2 campaign and 2013’s 6-5 run, wrapped up just their 37th winning season in their 121-year football history.
Players to Watch
#15 Dimitri Morales (QB, 6-2, 205, Jr., Altadena, Calif. / Rancho Cucamonga HS)
#25 Tate Thompson (DB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Forest City, Iowa/Forest City HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Bemidji State – 6 p.m.
Winona State University Warriors
Last Year 5-6, 3-4 South
Returning Starters 9 Off / 6 Def
Letter winners 36 Off / 18 Def
Standings 11th Overall t-6th South
Team Preview Winona State returns a lot on offense in 2016 after setting a new school record in passing offense last fall. Quarterback Jack Nelson is back, last season he threw for 3,419 yards and 26 touchdowns. Nelson is the school’s all-time leader in passing yards with 8,977 yards. Another year like 2015 could move Nelson into the top-10 all-time in NCAA Division II history. Nelson lost a couple targets to throw to on the edge but he will have the added help of a more experienced offensive line and running back core. The fourth leading rusher in the league Paul Preston is also back, giving Winona State some balance on offense. Preston finished the year with 897 yards, accounting for 66% of the team’s rushing offense. Defensively the Warriors lost five starters but do have a majority of their line-backing core and safeties back. Last year Winona State forced 13 INT’s and ten fumbles defensively. The defense also added 74 tackles-for-loss and 25 sacks (fifth in the NSIC). The 2016 defense will look to get opponents off the field on third down at a higher rate. Place kicker Carter McCauley was 18-22 last season and led the team with 91 points scored. He finished fourth in the NSIC in scoring with 8.3 points per game. Players to Watch #19 Jack Nelson (QB, 6-4, 225, Sr., Byron, Minn. / Byron HS) #44 Jarrett Wood (OLB, 6-3, 245, Sr., Vernon Hills, Ill. / Vernon Hills HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota Crookston – 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Composite Football Schedule 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/3 9/3
Wayne State at MSU Moorhead Minnesota State at Minot State Sioux Falls at St. Cloud State Minnesota Crookston at Winona State Upper Iowa at Bemidji State Minnesota Duluth at Southwest Minnesota State Northern State at Augustana UMary at Concordia-St. Paul
6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 6 p.m.
9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10
Augustana at UMary Concordia-St. Paul at Minnesota Crookston St. Cloud State at Upper Iowa Minot State at Wayne State Bemidji State at Minnesota State MSU Moorhead at Sioux Falls Southwest Minnesota State at Northern State Winona State at Minnesota Duluth
9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17
Northern State at Winona State Minnesota Crookston at Augustana UMary at Southwest Minnesota State Upper Iowa at MSU Moorhead Sioux Falls at Minot State Minnesota State at St. Cloud State Minnesota Duluth at Concordia-St. Paul Wayne State at Bemidji State
9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24
St. Cloud State at Wayne State 1 p.m. Winona State at UMary 1 p.m. Southwest Minnesota State at Minnesota Crookston 1 p.m. Concordia-St. Paul at Northern State 1 p.m. MSU Moorhead at Minnesota State 1 p.m. Minot State at Upper Iowa 3:05 p.m. Bemidji State at Sioux Falls 6 p.m. Augustana at Minnesota Duluth 6:05 p.m.
11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5
10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1
Wayne State at Concordia-St. Paul Minnesota State at Winona State Bemidji State at UMary Sioux Falls at Augustana MSU Moorhead at Minnesota Duluth St. Cloud State at Minnesota Crookston Minot State at Northern State Upper Iowa at Southwest Minnesota State
12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
11/12 Wayne State at Sioux Falls 11/12 Concordia-St. Paul at Winona State 11/12 Upper Iowa at Minnesota State 11/12 Augustana at Southwest Minnesota State 11/12 Northern State at MSU Moorhead 11/12 UMary at Minot State 11/12 Minnesota Duluth at St. Cloud State 11/12 Minnesota Crookston at Bemidji State
10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8
Augustana at Wayne State Northern State at Bemidji State UMary at St. Cloud State Minnesota Duluth at Minot State Concordia-St. Paul at Minnesota State Winona State at Upper Iowa Southwest Minnesota State at Sioux Falls Minnesota Crookston at MSU Moorhead
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m.
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:05 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 3 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m.
10/15 Upper Iowa at Concordia-St. Paul 10/15 UMary at Minnesota Crookston 10/15 Minnesota State at Augustana 10/15 Northern State at Minnesota Duluth 10/15 Minot State at Bemidji State 10/15 St. Cloud State at MSU Moorhead 10/15 Sioux Falls at Winona State 10/15 Wayne State at Southwest Minnesota State
12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
10/20 Southwest Minnesota State at Minnesota State 10/22 Concordia-St. Paul at Sioux Falls 10/22 MSU Moorhead at UMary 10/22 Minnesota Crookston at Minot State 10/22 Winona State at Wayne State 10/22 St. Cloud State at Northern State 10/22 Bemidji State at Minnesota Duluth 10/22 Augustana at Upper Iowa
6 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 3:05 p.m.
10/29 Winona State at Augustana 10/29 Concordia-St. Paul at Southwest Minnesota State 10/29 Minot State at MSU Moorhead 10/29 Sioux Falls at Minnesota State 10/29 Northern State at UMary 10/29 Bemidji State at St. Cloud State 10/29 Wayne State at Upper Iowa 10/29 Minnesota Duluth at Minnesota Crookston Upper Iowa at Sioux Falls Augustana at Concordia-St. Paul Minnesota State at Wayne State MSU Moorhead at Bemidji State Southwest Minnesota State at Winona State St. Cloud State at Minot State Minnesota Crookston at Northern State UMary at Minnesota Duluth
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m.
Postseason Schedule 11/19 NCAA Playoff 1st Round 11/26 NCAA Playoff 2nd Round 12/03 51st Mineral Water Bowl 12/03 Super Region Championship 12/10 NCAA Semifinals 12/17 NCAA Championship * All times and date subject to change
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
August 3, 2016 www.northernsun.org
#NSICFB
Nick Kornder • Asst. Commissioner for Media Relations • 2999 County Road 42 West • Burnsville, MN 55306 • P: 651.288.4017 • [email protected]
Minnesota State University, Mankato Tabbed NSIC Preseason Coaches’ Favorite
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
BURNSVILLE, Minn. - Minnesota State University, Mankato was selected by the league coaches as the overall and south division preseason favorite in the NSIC for 2016. The Mavericks received 11 first place votes and amassed 216 points, 18 points ahead of Augustana (198) and 22 points ahead of Minnesota Duluth (194), which garnered a first place vote and was the coaches’ top choice in the north division. Sioux Falls was picked fourth overall (192) and received two first place votes. Northern State and SMSU also received first place nods in the preseason poll. The NSIC football schedule will be broken into two divisions (north/ south). Each team will play 11 conference games that will count towards the NSIC Overall Championship as well as seven divisional games that will count towards the NSIC North/South Division Championships. In all, three league champions will be awarded (Overall Champion, North Division Champion, South Division Champion). Ties will not be broken for overall or division champions.
Overall Points 1. Minnesota State (11)....................... 216 2. Augustana ...................................... 198 3. Minnesota Duluth (1)..................... 194 4. Sioux Falls (2)................................ 192 5. Bemidji State ................................ 153 6. Northern State (1)........................... 143 7. Southwest Minnesota State (1) ...... 140 8. Winona State .................................. 139 9. St. Cloud State ............................... 132 10. MSU Moorhead............................. 97 11. Upper Iowa ................................... 88 12. Wayne State .................................. 71 13. Concordia-St. Paul......................... 52 14. Minot State ................................... 44 15. University of Mary........................ 40 16. Minnesota Crookston.................... 21 first place votes in ( )
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
P reseason NSIC F ootball C oaches P oll
North Division Points 1 Minnesota Duluth (6)....................... 47 2. Bemidji State (1)............................. 42 3. Northern State (1) ........................... 35 4. St. Cloud State................................. 31 5. MSU Moorhead............................... 28 6. Minot State...................................... 19 7. University of Mary.......................... 12 8. Minnesota Crookston...................... 10 first place votes in ( )
South Division Points 1. Minnesota State (6).........................47 2. Augustana .......................................40 Sioux Falls (1).................................40 4. Southwest Minnesota State (1)........30 5. Winona State....................................27 6. Upper Iowa......................................18 7. Wayne State.....................................14 8. Concordia-St. Paul............................8 first place votes in ( )
The NSIC is a 16-team, 18-sport, NCAA Division II Conference with teams located in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Players of the Year
#7 Jordan Hein (QB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Perham, Minn. / Perham HS)
#97 Chad Stoterau (DL, 6-4, 285, Sr., Garretson, S.D. / Garretson HS) - 2015 All-NSIC First Team - Started all 11 games for the Wolves - Recorded 51 tackles, 25 unassisted and 26 assisted - Second on the team with 6.0 tackles for a total loss of 28 yards - Added 3.5 sacks for a total loss of 22 yards - Anchored the NSU defense which led the NSIC in red zone defense - Notched a season high nine tackles and two sacks versus BSU on Nov. 14
#2 Trey Heid (QB, 6-2, 195, Sr., Lakeville, Minn. / North HS)
#48 Marcus Gooden (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., Belvidere, Ill. / Belvidere HS) - Finished the 2015 season second on the team in tackles with 58 - Tallied a season-high eight tackles in wins over UMD and UMC - Recorded three interceptions, tied for second best in south division - Started in seven games last season, including final six games of the season - Recorded at least five tackles in seven games last season. - Returned an interception against Winona State 32 yards, which led to an MSU touchdown on the next play
- 2015 All-NSIC First Team - Led all NSIC starting quarterbacks with four interceptions - Ranked in the top 10 in seven BSU all-time single-season categories - Set BSU single-season records for attempts, completed passes and total offense - Finished fifth in the NSIC in touchdown passes with 22 - Ranked sixth in the NSIC in total offense (270.6) and passing yards (218.8) - Rushed for 570 yards and eight TDs to rank second and first on BSU - Converted a career-high five passing touchdowns Oct. 17 at MSU Moorhead - Threw for 250+ yards in five games and 200+ yards in eight - Twenty-six touchdown passes shy of setting the BSU career record
- 2015 NSIC Offensive Player of the Year - Led the NSIC in total offense, averaging 338.6 yards per NSIC game - Ranked second in the NSIC in passing yards with 301.5 ypg - Set the Augustana single season record with 3,493 passing yards - Finished second in the NSIC tossing a career-high 29 touchdowns - Led the NSIC and was second in nation with a 171.2 passer efficiency - Rushed for 408 yards and five touchdowns in NSIC play - Threw a season-high five touchdowns against Concordia-St. Paul - Led the nation averaging 10.18 yards per completion - His 63 career touchdowns are 10 shy of the career record at Augie
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews Augustana University Vikings
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners Standings 9-3, 9-2, 6-1 South 10 Off / 6 Def 28 Off / 28 Def t-2nd Overall t-1st South Team Preview Augustana is coming off a 9-3 season in 2015, marking just the second season in program history with nine or more wins. The Vikings made their fourth NCAA Playoff appearance in program history and earned a share of the NSIC South Division Championship with a 6-1 record in divisional play. Augustana ended the season ranked in the top 25 of two national polls. The Vikings were ranked No. 24 in the AFCA Top 25 Poll and No. 20 in the final D2football.com poll. Augustana returns 10 starters from an offense which set single season records for total offense (5,527 yards), passing yards (3,603), points scored (494), and touchdowns (64) in 2016. Leading the offensive charge will be NSIC South Division Preseason Offensive Player of the Year Trey Heid. Heid was named the offensive player of the year in 2015 in the NSIC after throwing for a career-high 29 touchdowns and a single season record 3,493 yards. Heid’s top two targets, Charlie Hayes and Matt Heller, return in 2015. Hayes hauled in 73 passes for 1,127 yards and 12 touchdowns and Heller caught 53 passes for 1,089 yards and 10 scores. On the defensive side of the ball, Augustana returns six starters, including 2015 All-NSIC First Team selection Bryson Hamilton. Augustana’s defense forced 23 turnovers last season, ranking fifth in the NSIC with 13 interceptions. The Vikings allowed just 146.8 rushing yards per game and finished the year with 24 sacks. Players to Watch #2 Trey Heid (QB, 6-2, 195, Sr., Lakeville, Minn. / North HS) #94 Bryson Hamilton (DE, 6-4, 225, Sr., Clear Lake, Iowa / Clear Lake HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 vs. Northern State – 1 p.m.
CONCORDIA University, St. Paul Golden Bears
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners Standings 1-10, 0-7 South 8 Off / 6 Def 21 Off / 16 Def t-13th Overall 8th South Team Preview Concordia embarks on a new (and old) era in 2016 with the return of 2003 NSIC Coach of the Year Shannon Currier to the CSP sidelines. Currier led the Golden Bears for four years from 2000-03 and is the only coach in program history to produce four consecutive winning campaigns. He also led Concordia to its first NSIC football championship in 2003 which led to the program’s first-ever postseason game, the first of three trips to the Mineral Water Bowl (2003, 2005, 2010). His 32-12 record at CSP places him eight wins shy of the program record while his .727 winning percentage ranks first. In year one in his return to the program, Currier has welcomed three new full time assistant coaches with Mike McElroy tabbed as defensive coordinator from the University of Minnesota. Offensive assistants are Jon Medlo (OL), a 2000 CSP graduate who had been on the Hamline staff and Houston Jones (WR) who joins the program from Dakota Wesleyan. The full time staff is rounded out on the defensive side by retaining defensive line coach Joe Lardinois. Between the lines, sophomore Alquawn Vickers has received preseason All-America recognition (Lindy’s) and was a third team All-America pick last year as a redshirt freshman (Don Hansen) when he was among the nation’s top return specialists (11.0 PR, 25.6 KR, 2 TD) while also being a threat on offense (37-463, 3 TD). Sophomore Terrell Taylor anchors the offensive line as a returning starting tackle while Bruce Russell adds impact as a returning skill player. On defense, Sam Johnson and Dominic Nabak bring the right blend of experience and mentality to be leaders on McElroy’s unit. Players to Watch #5 Alquawn Vickers (WR/RS, 5-8, 168, So., Ft. Pierce, Fla. / Central HS) #33 Sam Johnson (LB, 6-2, 218, Sr., Appleton, Wis. / Appleton East HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 vs. UMary - 6 p.m.
Last Year
Bemidji State University Beavers Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
7-4, 6-1 North 11 Off / 8 Def 26 Off / 22 Def 6th Overall t-1st North Team Preview Bemidji State completed the 2015 season in a tie for the NSIC North Division Championship and sixth in the overall standings. The Beavers tied a program record with six consecutive wins between Sept. 26-Oct. 31. BSU snapped Northern State’s own six-game winning streak on Nov. 14 with a 41-24 win to secure a share of the north division title. The entire Beavers’ starting offense, including six All-NSIC members, returns from a season that was the program’s most productive since 2006. Quarterback Jordan Hein enters his junior season as NSIC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, climbing his way up the all-time program charts in his first season as the full-time starter. He finished with 30 total touchdowns, which ranks second all-time in BSU’s single-season record book, and just four interceptions for the fewest in the NSIC. Also returning is the NSIC Defensive Newcomer of the Year Gunner Olszewski at defensive back. The sophomore nabbed seven interceptions to rank second in the conference, including tying a BSU single-game record with three against Minot State Oct. 31, and led the Beavers with 85 total tackles. Bemidji State will replace just three starters on defense that returns three All-NSIC members. The “Gang Green” defense finished third in the NSIC allowing 348.5 yards and 19.1 points per game. Head Coach Jeff Tesch enters his 21st season with the Beavers after leading the team to its second division title in four seasons. Players to Watch #7 Jordan Hein (QB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Perham, Minn. / Perham HS) #36 Gunner Olszewski (DB, 6-0, 170, So., Alvin, Texas / Alvin HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Upper Iowa – 6 p.m.
University of Mary Marauders
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners 1-10, 1-6 North 7 Off / 6 Def 20 Off / 20 Def Team Preview
Standings t-12 Overall t-6th North
While wins may have been a struggle to find last season for the University of Mary, the year allowed the Marauders coaching staff to provide valuable playing experience to its young roster. The Marauders can count on 40 players with collegiate experience entering the 2016 season, including 20 on each side of the ball. Led by 13 seniors, including FB Zach Podoll, the team also returns 12 juniors and 16 sophomores. A two-year starter at tight end, Podoll switches to fullback this season in a new-look offense for UMary. The All-NSIC North performer caught 37 passes for 313 yards and a touchdown last year. SR RB Zach Graves is a multi-purpose back that collected over 1,000 yards in all-purpose yardage, running for 341 yards, catching passes for 348 and returning kicks for 340. JR WR Brennan Doan caught a team-leading 42 passes for 377 yards. SO Nick Benshetler started all season on the offensive line last year as a true freshman. SR Landon Smith was a stalwart defensively for the Marauders in 2015. The defensive end from Stanley, N.D., was among the NSIC leaders last season with 12 tackles for loss. SR LB Austin Bolton was second on the team with 81 tackles and third with 6.0 tackles for loss. SR DB Danielle Whitaker posted four interceptions while JR CB Jacob Parker had 13 pass breakups. Parker also had 44 tackles, including 3.0 for loss, and two interceptions. Players to Watch #22 Zach Podoll (FB, 6-3, 235, Sr., Velva, N.D. / Velva HS) #10 Jacob Parker (DB, 6-1, 190, Jr., Las Vegas, Nev. / Arbor View HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 at Concordia-St. Paul - 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews University of Minnesota Crookston Golden Eagles
Last Year 1-10, 1-6 North
Returning Starters Letterwinners 7 Off / 6 Def 15 Off / 20 Def
Standings
t-13th Overall
t-6th North Team Preview Minnesota Crookston will look to improve on a 1-10 season in 2015 as they head into the 2016 campaign, their fourth under Head Coach Mike Fritze. The Golden Eagles return one of their most experienced teams in recent years as they look to move up the standings in 2016. Minnesota Crookston returns seven starters on offense. The Golden Eagles are led by 2015 All-NSIC North Second Team pick Dre Person, who rushed for over 750 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior. In addition, UMC returns Adam Connette at wide receiver and four starters on the offensive line. Defensively, the Golden Eagles return six starters from last season. Minnesota Crookston is spearheaded by its secondary, led by Dion Wallisch, Jake Newman and Ali Alkhatib. In addition, the Golden Eagles return Bubba Cook, Jake Christopherson and Isaiah Armstrong on the line and Chuck Lofquist at the linebacker spot. Players to Watch #30 Dre Person (RB, 6-0 205, Sr., Detroit, Mich. / Detroit Central HS) #20 Dion Wallisch (DB, 5-11 185, So., Oakdale, Minn. / Tartan HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Winona State - 6 p.m.
Letter winners 19 Off / 18 Def
Team Preview
Standings 4th Overall t-1st North
A 9-3 season would be considered a rousing success for many collegiate programs, but that’s not the case for UMD. The Bulldogs posted that mark last fall and did manage to claim a share of their eighth consecutive NSIC North title along the way. They even ended the year with a 30-22 victory over Fort Hays State in the Mineral Water Bowl and were ranked 23rd in the final 2015 d2football.com poll. Still, UMD failed to do something which it had done every year since 2008, secure a NCAA II playoff bid, and the Bulldogs are fully determined that does not happen again in 2016. UMD, which is under the direction of fourth-year head coach Curt Wiese, welcomes back 52 lettermen from a year ago, including 10 starters on offense and five on defense. Headlining the list of holdovers is senior quarterback Drew Bauer, who suffered a season-ending injury last October but still wound up sporting the 11th best pass efficiency rating in the country (155.5). He’ll enter his final collegiate goaround having generated both the fourth most all-time total yards (8,086) and passing yards (5,640) in team history. Peter Bateman, a three-time All-NSIC tackle, anchors an offensive line that didn’t lose a starter from 2015 while Beau Bofferding, who paced the 2015 Bulldogs in receptions (30) and all-purpose yards (1,025) and junior Nate Ricci (17 receptions) are expected to be among Bauer’s primary go-to guys. Senior inside linebacker Beau Bates, one of four returning 2015 All- NSIC first team picks (along with Bateman, Bofferding and defensive end Karl Finkel), reigned as UMD’s leading tackler last fall and will be a main cog in the Bulldog ball-stopping efforts again this season.
Players to Watch #9 Drew Bauer (QB, 6-2, 215, Sr., Inver Grove Heights, Minn. / Eagan HS) #43 Beau Bates (LB, 6-0, 230, Sr., Excelsior, Minn. / Minnetonka HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Southwest Minnesota State - 7 p.m.
Minnesota State University, Mankato Mavericks
Last Year Returning Starters 10-2, 10-1, 6-1 South 5 Off / 5 Def
University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs
Last Year Returning Starters Letterwinners 9-3, 8-3, 6-1 North 10 Off / 5 Def 27 Off / 25 Def
Standings 1st Overall t-1st South
Team Preview Minnesota State claimed its third NSIC Championship in the last four seasons as it went on to finish the 2015 season with a 10-2 overall record. The Mavericks, who saw their 40-game NSIC winning streak end last season, made their fourth straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament where it fell to Emporia State 51-49 at Blakeslee Stadium. Despite seeing their conference winning streak snapped last season, the Mavericks will carry a 22-game road winning streak into the 2016 season, which dates back to week one of the 2012 season. The MSU offense will see a pair of wide receivers return who topped 500 receiving yards a season ago in seniors Ty Dennis and Brent Esser. Dennis, who garnered All-NSIC Second Team honors last year, led the Mavericks with 793 receiving yards and six touchdown catches, while Esser notched 523 receiving yards and five touchdown catches. On defense, the Mavericks return senior linebacker Marcus Gooden, who finished second on the team in tackles with 58 last season. Gooden also hauled in three interceptions. Junior defensive end Evan Perrizo also returns for the Purple and Gold after finishing second on the team in tackles for loss last season with nine. Perrizo, who also tallied 4.5 sacks last season, recorded a team-high three fumble recoveries. Defensive back Jared Gillespie, who claimed All-NSIC First Team honors, returns for his senior season after posting 24 tackles and an interception last season. Players to Watch #85 Ty Dennis (WR, 6-3, 220, Jr., Burlington, Wis. / Burlington HS) #48 Marcus Gooden (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., Belvidere, Ill. / Belvidere HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Minot State – 6 p.m.
Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons
Last Year 6-5, 3-4 North
Returning Starters 7 Off / 7 Def
Letter winners 15 Off / 17 Def
Standings t-7th Overall 5th North
Team Preview MSU Moorhead finished 6-5 overall in 2015, marking the Dragons’ first winning record since 2006. MSUM ended the 2015 season with two consecutive wins to secure the winning record. MSUM opened the season at 3-0, marking the Dragons’ first 3-0 start since 1987. Included in that start was a thrilling 35-34 win over Augustana, which qualified for the playoffs. The Dragons return two quarterbacks with starting experience, senior Jake Hodge and junior Demetrius Carr. Hodge went down with a season-ending injury after Week 2 in 2015 with Carr taking over for the rest of the season. Senior Cory Ambrose and junior Damon Gibson return to anchor the receiving corps. Sophomore Herman Gray is the top returner at running back. On the offensive line, senior Jack Bixler. junior Damien Crawford and sophomore Andrew Erickson provide the Dragons with an experienced nucleus. On defense MSUM also returns seven starters, led by senior defensive lineman Ryan Dahleen and senior linebacker Aaron Bohl. Junior defensive lineman Jake Busse was named to the All-NSIC North Division Second Team while Gibson, junior linebacker Abe Roehrich and sophomore Joe Rademacher were honorable mention selections in the north division. MSUM is entering its sixth season under the direction of Head Coach Steve Laqua. Players to Watch #9 Damon Gibson (WR, 6-4, 220, Jr., Beardsley, Minn./Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley HS) #95 Ryan Dahleen (DL, 6-2, 247, Sr., Palos Hills, Ill./Stagg HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Wayne State - 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews Last Year
Minot State University Beavers Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
1-10, 1-6 North 8 Off / 7 Def 15 Off / 12 Def t-13th Overall t-6th North Team Preview Minot State finished tied for 13th overall in the NSIC in 2015 and tied for 6th in the NSIC North. The Beavers will be bolstered by two returning starters who sat out in 2015 due to injury, senior quarterback Zac Cunha and junior defensive back Bryce Broome. Cunha played just three plays in the opener last season before an injury and will be back for a fifth season. He was 2-for-2 passing for 32 yards on that series and has thrown for 6,232 yards and 41 touchdowns in four years. Broome has 58 career tackles and two career interceptions. MISU’s defensive unit returns its top tackler from 2015 in senior linebacker Trevin Swensen. Swensen finished with 101 tackles with 6.5 for loss and a sack. MISU also returns its top rusher for the past three seasons in senior Jarvis Mustipher. He has 1,797 yards and eight touchdowns in his career. Minot State will have some depth at quarterback this season as the injury to Cunha last season forced the Beavers to use multiple signal callers with senior Jose Escobar throwing for 631 yards and six touchdowns and sophomore Isaiah Weed finishing with 346 yards and two scores. The Beavers also return all-conference punter senior Aaron La Deaux, who was second in the NSIC with a 40.6 punting average. MISU will look to continue to be stingy in the pass game as the Beavers finished second in the NSIC in 2015, allowing just 182.8 yards passing. Players to Watch #16 Zac Cunha (QB, 6-3, 230, Sr., Rocklin, Calif. / Roseville HS) #5 Trevin Swensen (LB, 6-0, 213, Sr., Shelley, Idaho / Shelley HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota State - 6 p.m.
University of Sioux Falls Cougars
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners Standings 9-3, 9-2, 5-2 South 11 Off / 5 Def 24 Off / 24 Def t-2nd Overall 3rd South Team Preview Sioux Falls has made two consecutive postseason appearances and will go for a third in 2016. The Cougars will try for a 23rd consecutive winning season, which is unmatched in NCAA DII and 5th best active streak across all divisions. Led by Jed Stugart (53-16), USF has had nine or more win in three of four season, at DII where USF is 35-11. It is an experienced squad that will be led on offense by the league’s only two-time Harlon Hill candidate Luke Papilion, who is on the verge of cracking all of USF’s all-time passing marks. Arguably the NSIC’s top dual threat, Papilion led all NSIC QBs in rushing yards with 854, he threw for 3K and had a league-high 30 TD passes as he is a two-time total offense leader in the NSIC. The Cougars, which averaged 472.1 ypg, also return nearly their entire offensive front, led by AllNSIC center Trevor Wescott and All-American Antonio Green. It is a group that led the NSIC and DII in sacks allowed with five. The tight end corps is led by All-NSIC Nicholas Stanke with all-league HB Brady Rose and HM All-league WR Josh Angulo leading the receiving corps. On defense, USF, which led the league with 39 sacks and 20 int., returns HM All-league DE Westly Johnson, who was second in the NSIC with 11.5 sacks, and had 16 TFLs. Also back will be All-league DE Evan Gentry (5.5 sacks, has five sacks three straight years) with the secondary led by strong safety Josh Butler, who was All-NSIC and had the most tackles (104) by a USF player in D2 era. Players to Watch #15 Luke Papilion (QB, 6-5, 225, Sr., Denver, Colo. / Cherry Creek HS) #44 Westly Johnson (DE, 6-5, 225, Sr., Grand Rapids, Mich. / Grand Rapids HS)
First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at St. Cloud State - 6 p.m.
Last Year
Northern State University Wolves Returning Starters
Letter winners
Standings
6-5, 6-1 North 10 Off / 8 Def 20 Off / 25 Def 9th Overall T-1st North Team Preview Northern State opens the 2016 season after a co-NSIC North Division crown in 2015. NSU went 6-5 overall and 6-1 in North Division play after defeating No. 18 Minnesota Duluth, 23-15, in late October. The win snapped a previous 26-game loss streak to the Bulldogs. The Wolves return a multitude of talent in All-Conference performers Conner Doherty, Tyler Robel, Channing Barber, Chad Stoterau, Taylor Zemlicka, Joe Parsley, and Nick Murphy; as well as Don Hansen All-Americans Doherty and Barber. Doherty was second on the team in 2015 with 514 yards receiving, tallying 41 catches and three touchdowns, while averaging 12.5 yards per catch and 46.7 yards per game. Barber led the team in 2015 with five interceptions and 74 return yards. He was third on the team with 65 total tackles and added 2.5 tackles for a loss, 18 pass break-ups and 23 pass deflections. NSU was second in the league in fourth down conversions and led the NSIC in red zone defense. Northern State seniors Conner Doherty and Chad Stoterau was tabbed as the NSIC Players to Watch in 2016. Doherty is a 3-year starter for the Wolves, as well as a 3-year All-NSIC First Team performer. Stoterau is a 2-year starter for NSU and a 2-year All-NSIC First Team performer. Northern State opens the 2016 season on the road versus Augustana, and will return home to face Southwest Minnesota State in the 2nd Annual Ag Bowl on September 10th. The match-up with the Mustangs will be featured on ESPN3 and the Watch ESPN App. Players to Watch #85 Conner Doherty (TE, 6-3, 250, Sr., Brookings, S.D. / Brookings HS) #97 Chad Stoterau (DL, 6-4, 285, Sr., Garretson, S.D. / Garretson HS) First game Saturday, Sept. 3 at Augustana - 1 p.m.
Southwest Minnesota State University Mustangs
Last Year Returning Starters Letter winners 8-3, 4-3 South 7 Off / 6 Def 25 Off / 18 Def
Standings T-4th Overall 4th South
Team Preview SMSU had one of its best seasons in school history in 2015 compiling a record of 8-3. The eight victories were the highest in school history at the Division II level and are tied for second most overall in program history SMSU returns junior starting quarterback Blake Gimbel, who garnered All-NSIC South honorable mention honors a season ago during his first year as a starter. Gimbel set a school single-season record, completing 66.4 percent of his passes for 3,053 yards and 26 touchdowns with seven interceptions. Senior running back Ashanti Payne is the team’s top returning rusher after amassing 771 yards and five touchdowns on 153 carries. He finished the season with four 100yard rushing games. SMSU returns its top seven receivers from last season, including junior wide receiver Nate Huot, who has earned All-NSIC South honorable mention accolades last season. He led the Mustangs in receptions (63), yards (830) and touchdowns (nine) last season. Senior left tackle Grant Greenfield—a 2016 preseason second team All-American—leads the offensive line having played in every game the past three years. He was named AllNSIC South first team and CCA All-Super Region 3 second team in 2015. On defense, SMSU returns its top two tacklers and the team’s leader in interceptions. Senior linebacker Tyler Flud earned All-NSIC South first team honors after registering a team-high 85 tackles and five sacks. Senior safety Caleb Leichtnam recorded a team-leading four interceptions and finished second on the team with 77 tackles. Players to Watch #14 Blake Gimbel (QB, 6-4, 215, Jr., Marshalltown, Iowa / Marshalltown HS) #27 Tyler Flud (LB, 6-0, 225, Sr., St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin Derham Hall HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota Duluth - 7 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Preseason Team Previews St. Cloud State University Huskies
Last Year 6-5, 4-3 North
Returning Starters Letter winners 6 Off / 7 Def 15 Off / 19 Def
Team Preview
Standings t-7th Overall 4th North
St. Cloud State brings back several of its key offensive skill position players in quarterback Nate Meyer, wide receiver Jameson Parsons and running back Jaden Huff for the 2016 season. Parsons is coming off a historic season where he led the NSIC in receiving yards (1,272) and became just the fifth player in school history to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a season. He already has received some preseason accolades and was selected to Lindy’s First Team 2016 Division II Preseason All-American Team. Meyer became just the fifth player in school history to throw 20+ touchdowns in a season with his 22 TD tosses last year. Huff ranked second in the conference with his 13 rushing scores. The team will rely heavily on the trio while breaking in three new starters along the offensive line. The team also returns seven defensive starters led by the dynamic outside linebacker duo of Brady Westart and Craig Szymanski. Westart led the team in tackles (79) and sacks (7.5), while placing second in tackles for loss (10.5). Szymanski was the squad’s leader in tackles for loss (12) while totaling 65 tackles and 4.5 sacks. Huff, Westart, Meyer and Mitch Knutson have also taken on additional leadership responsibilities as the team captains this season. Head Coach Scott Underwood returns for his ninth year leading the program. He has produced a winning record in each of his first eight seasons and has the second-most wins in school history with his 64 victories.
Players to Watch #11 Jameson Parsons (WR, 6-2, 205, Sr., Eagan, Minn. / Eagan HS) #44 Craig Szymanski (LB, 6-3, 235, Jr., Farmington, Minn. / Rosemount HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Sioux Falls – 6 p.m.
WAYNE STATE COLLEGE Wildcats
Last Year 4-7, 1-6 South
Returning Starters Letter winners 7 Off / 6 Def 30 Off / 23 Def
Standings 12th Overall 7th South
Team Preview Wayne State is looking to stay healthy entering the 2016 season. The Wildcats went through three quarterbacks and battled numerous injuries throughout the second half of last season, resulting in a 4-7 record after starting the year 3-1. Seven starters return on offense led by junior quarterback Zach Osborn, who broke his thumb on his throwing hand in the second game last year at Minnesota Duluth after throwing for 5,440 yards in his first two years in a Wildcat uniform. WSC returns its top wide receiver in junior Marcel Dunson, who hauled in 45 catches for 544 yards and six TD’s. The Wildcats need to replace 1,000 yard rusher Ryan Ludlow (graduated) from last season, who ranked third in the NSIC with 1,039 yards and seven TD’s. Senior right tackle Shane Finley, a 2015 All-NSIC South Division First Team selection, returns to anchor the Wildcat offensive line. On defense, the Wildcats return six starters but lost their top two tacklers (Jon Davis and Nate Kroupa) to graduation. Sophomore defensive end Logan Weinandt had a strong second half last season and ranked third on the team in tackles for loss and sixth in total tackles. The top returning tackler is junior linebacker DeWayne Scott, who had 47 tackles and 7.0 tackles. The Wayne State secondary returns three starters, led by sophomore cornerback Jamaal Conway-Smith, tied for fourth last season in the NSIC in passes defended with 15 to go with a team-high three interceptions. Players to Watch #10 Zach Osborn (QB, 6-0, 185, Jr., Harlan, Iowa / Harlan HS) #95 Logan Weinandt (DE, 6-5, 255, So., Wynot, Neb. / Hartington Cedar Catholic HS)
First game Thursday, September 1 at MSU Moorhead – 6 p.m.
Upper Iowa University Peacocks
Last Year 6-5, 3-4 South
Returning Starters Letter winners 8 Off / 6 Def 47 Off / 14 Def
Team Preview
Standings t-7th Overall t-5th South
Dimitri Morales (QB) returns for his second season with the Peacocks after suffering a season-ending injury during Upper Iowa’s first-ever win over Winona State. Morales was named the NSIC Player of the Week after the victory with 378 passing yards and three touchdowns, as well as 39 yards rushing and two touchdowns. In his seven games, Morales threw for 2,244 yards (320.6 ypg) and 16 touchdowns and rushed for 180 yards and 6 scores. Tate Thompson will return for his final season with UIU and anchor the defense from his safety position. Thompson was third on the team in total tackles with 68 including 38 solo stops and recorded two interceptions. The Forest City, Iowa product also returned 17 punts including a 44-yard touchdown return against Minnesota Crookston. The Peacocks also return four All-NSIC performers from last year’s squad in the form of seniors Jalen Chambers (2nd Team OL), Jalen Amis (Hon. Mention WR) and Trey MacTaggart (Hon. Mention WR), as well as junior punter Nate Skare (2nd Team). The Peacocks finished their 2015 season with a 6-5 overall record marking their third straight winning season. Upper Iowa’s 3-1 record against the NSIC North Division included wins over Northern State, Minnesota Crookston and the University of Mary and a near-upset of then #25 UMD. In the games against the South Division, the Peacocks picked up wins over Concordia-St. Paul, Winona State and Wayne State. The Peacocks, who only had five winning seasons between 1966’s 8-2 campaign and 2013’s 6-5 run, wrapped up just their 37th winning season in their 121-year football history.
Players to Watch
#15 Dimitri Morales (QB, 6-2, 205, Jr., Altadena, Calif. / Rancho Cucamonga HS)
#25 Tate Thompson (DB, 6-2, 220, Jr., Forest City, Iowa/Forest City HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 at Bemidji State – 6 p.m.
Winona State University Warriors
Last Year 5-6, 3-4 South
Returning Starters 9 Off / 6 Def
Letter winners 36 Off / 18 Def
Standings 11th Overall t-6th South
Team Preview Winona State returns a lot on offense in 2016 after setting a new school record in passing offense last fall. Quarterback Jack Nelson is back, last season he threw for 3,419 yards and 26 touchdowns. Nelson is the school’s all-time leader in passing yards with 8,977 yards. Another year like 2015 could move Nelson into the top-10 all-time in NCAA Division II history. Nelson lost a couple targets to throw to on the edge but he will have the added help of a more experienced offensive line and running back core. The fourth leading rusher in the league Paul Preston is also back, giving Winona State some balance on offense. Preston finished the year with 897 yards, accounting for 66% of the team’s rushing offense. Defensively the Warriors lost five starters but do have a majority of their line-backing core and safeties back. Last year Winona State forced 13 INT’s and ten fumbles defensively. The defense also added 74 tackles-for-loss and 25 sacks (fifth in the NSIC). The 2016 defense will look to get opponents off the field on third down at a higher rate. Place kicker Carter McCauley was 18-22 last season and led the team with 91 points scored. He finished fourth in the NSIC in scoring with 8.3 points per game. Players to Watch #19 Jack Nelson (QB, 6-4, 225, Sr., Byron, Minn. / Byron HS) #44 Jarrett Wood (OLB, 6-3, 245, Sr., Vernon Hills, Ill. / Vernon Hills HS) First game Thursday, Sept. 1 vs. Minnesota Crookston – 6 p.m.
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
2016 NSIC Composite Football Schedule 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/3 9/3
Wayne State at MSU Moorhead Minnesota State at Minot State Sioux Falls at St. Cloud State Minnesota Crookston at Winona State Upper Iowa at Bemidji State Minnesota Duluth at Southwest Minnesota State Northern State at Augustana UMary at Concordia-St. Paul
6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 6 p.m.
9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10
Augustana at UMary Concordia-St. Paul at Minnesota Crookston St. Cloud State at Upper Iowa Minot State at Wayne State Bemidji State at Minnesota State MSU Moorhead at Sioux Falls Southwest Minnesota State at Northern State Winona State at Minnesota Duluth
9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17
Northern State at Winona State Minnesota Crookston at Augustana UMary at Southwest Minnesota State Upper Iowa at MSU Moorhead Sioux Falls at Minot State Minnesota State at St. Cloud State Minnesota Duluth at Concordia-St. Paul Wayne State at Bemidji State
9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24
St. Cloud State at Wayne State 1 p.m. Winona State at UMary 1 p.m. Southwest Minnesota State at Minnesota Crookston 1 p.m. Concordia-St. Paul at Northern State 1 p.m. MSU Moorhead at Minnesota State 1 p.m. Minot State at Upper Iowa 3:05 p.m. Bemidji State at Sioux Falls 6 p.m. Augustana at Minnesota Duluth 6:05 p.m.
11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5
10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1
Wayne State at Concordia-St. Paul Minnesota State at Winona State Bemidji State at UMary Sioux Falls at Augustana MSU Moorhead at Minnesota Duluth St. Cloud State at Minnesota Crookston Minot State at Northern State Upper Iowa at Southwest Minnesota State
12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
11/12 Wayne State at Sioux Falls 11/12 Concordia-St. Paul at Winona State 11/12 Upper Iowa at Minnesota State 11/12 Augustana at Southwest Minnesota State 11/12 Northern State at MSU Moorhead 11/12 UMary at Minot State 11/12 Minnesota Duluth at St. Cloud State 11/12 Minnesota Crookston at Bemidji State
10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8
Augustana at Wayne State Northern State at Bemidji State UMary at St. Cloud State Minnesota Duluth at Minot State Concordia-St. Paul at Minnesota State Winona State at Upper Iowa Southwest Minnesota State at Sioux Falls Minnesota Crookston at MSU Moorhead
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m.
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:05 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 3 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m.
10/15 Upper Iowa at Concordia-St. Paul 10/15 UMary at Minnesota Crookston 10/15 Minnesota State at Augustana 10/15 Northern State at Minnesota Duluth 10/15 Minot State at Bemidji State 10/15 St. Cloud State at MSU Moorhead 10/15 Sioux Falls at Winona State 10/15 Wayne State at Southwest Minnesota State
12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
10/20 Southwest Minnesota State at Minnesota State 10/22 Concordia-St. Paul at Sioux Falls 10/22 MSU Moorhead at UMary 10/22 Minnesota Crookston at Minot State 10/22 Winona State at Wayne State 10/22 St. Cloud State at Northern State 10/22 Bemidji State at Minnesota Duluth 10/22 Augustana at Upper Iowa
6 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 3:05 p.m.
10/29 Winona State at Augustana 10/29 Concordia-St. Paul at Southwest Minnesota State 10/29 Minot State at MSU Moorhead 10/29 Sioux Falls at Minnesota State 10/29 Northern State at UMary 10/29 Bemidji State at St. Cloud State 10/29 Wayne State at Upper Iowa 10/29 Minnesota Duluth at Minnesota Crookston Upper Iowa at Sioux Falls Augustana at Concordia-St. Paul Minnesota State at Wayne State MSU Moorhead at Bemidji State Southwest Minnesota State at Winona State St. Cloud State at Minot State Minnesota Crookston at Northern State UMary at Minnesota Duluth
1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m.
Postseason Schedule 11/19 NCAA Playoff 1st Round 11/26 NCAA Playoff 2nd Round 12/03 51st Mineral Water Bowl 12/03 Super Region Championship 12/10 NCAA Semifinals 12/17 NCAA Championship * All times and date subject to change
For Updated Info Visit: www.northernsun.org • Augustana • Bemidji State • Concordia -St. Paul • University of Mary • Minnesota Crookston • Minnesota Duluth • Minnesota State University, Mankato • • MSU Moorhead • Minot State • Northern State • Sioux Falls • Southwest Minnesota State • St. Cloud State • Upper Iowa • Wayne State • Winona State •
