SDSU football: The New OL Dominates, Top-Ranked Jackrabbits Open The season Ranked No.1 In FCS and More
What else is new
Offensive line coach Ryan Olson is stepping up to handle playcalling duties as the new coordinator, with support from quarterbacks coach Danny Freund, who recently served as the offensive coordinator and assistant head coach at UND. Quentin Christensen, who played a backup role on the offensive line last season, will be the new starting left tackle, responsible for safeguarding Gronowski’s blind side.
Best-case scenario
The revamped offensive line excels, the new skill position starters adapt seamlessly, and Gronowski emerges as the standout player in FCS, delivering his finest season to date. Meanwhile, the defense remains nearly impenetrable, leading the Jacks to their third consecutive championship.
Who’s new
Tight end Davin Stoffel could be a breakout star this season. Offensive tackle Sam Hagen has transferred from rival North Dakota and is anticipated to be a reliable starting tackle. Other newcomers include wide receiver Elijah Ervin from Snow College, linebacker Hudson Metcalf from Colorado Mesa, and defensive tackle Kobe Clayborne from Northwest Missouri State.
Last year: The Jackrabbits had an impressive 15-0 season, securing their second straight FCS championship in coach Jimmy Rogers’ debut year. They outscored opponents 560-139, with playoff victories totaling 146-15. Following the season, two offensive stars were drafted, and eight players joined NFL camps.
Who’s gone: The team has lost several key players, including running back Isaiah Davis, offensive linemen Mason McCormick, Garret Greenfield, and John O’Brian, wide receivers Jadon and Jaxon Janke, tight ends Zach Heins and Mike Morgan, linebackers Isaiah Stalbird and Jason Freeman, defensive linemen Cade Terveer, Quinton Hicks, and Ryan Van Marel, along with cornerback DyShawn Gales.
Who’s back: Quarterback Mark Gronowski returns for his final season as a Jackrabbit after winning the Walter Payton Award as the FCS player of the year. Last season, he passed for 3,058 yards and 29 touchdowns while also rushing for 402 yards and eight touchdowns.
Also returning are running back Amar Johnson, who had 801 rushing yards; center Gus Miller; guard Evan Beerntsen; wide receiver Griffin Wilde, who recorded 20 receptions for 399 yards and six touchdowns; linebackers Adam Bock, with 65 tackles and two sacks, and Graham Spalding, who made 35 tackles; cornerback Dalys Beanum, who had 29 tackles and five interceptions; defensive tackle Jarod De Priest; and safeties Tucker Large (49 tackles, four interceptions), Cale Reeder (58 tackles), Colby Huerter (42 tackles), and Matt Durrance. Kicker/punter Hunter Dustman is also back.
Worst Case Scenario
The offensive line may struggle without McCormick and Greenfield, and the new playmakers might not fully replace the production of the outgoing stars. In addition, Gronowski could feel pressured without his previous support. Although the defense remains competent, it may not achieve last year’s level of dominance, causing the Jacks to drop to third in the Valley and miss a trip back to Frisco.
Realistic Goal
Despite a significant number of graduations, the Jacks kick off the season ranked No. 1 in FCS. While failing to secure a third consecutive national championship wouldn’t be a total failure, it would still be seen as a disappointment.
They Said It
Linebacker Aaron Kusler: “The pressure to repeat as champions is definitely there; that’s a given. But for us, it’s about focusing on daily work. We concentrate on one game at a time, starting with Oklahoma State.”
Linebacker Graham Spalding: “Our offense is as explosive as ever. After playing against a lot of NFL talent during my six years here, I can say this offense matches the speed and physicality of our best.”
Head coach Jimmy Rogers: “Our culture thrives on the relationships formed here and on players striving for collective success over individual glory. This place is exceptional, and our players enjoy being here, supporting one another, and achieving together. With no egos at any level and our top players being the hardest workers, we have a recipe for success.”
Opener
August 31 at Oklahoma State.