SDSU Day 1: Dan Jackson, Chase Mason, Carter Sitzman, Lofton O'Groske, Reis Kirschenmen, Dontay Johnson, Dawson Ripperda

While August is a time for college football teams to sharpen their skills, install plays, and determine starters in position battles, it is also what experienced media consider "Kool-Aid season."   Every team in the nation is undefeated and optimistic about how their season will unfold. Or, at least they sound optimistic when on the record.   By Mid-August, two weeks before the first game, they're not just optimistic, they're excited if not foaming at the mouth to play the first game.   So when you talk to them on "Media Day," you may compile plenty of material that you will look back on and shake your head about in a few months if their season falls apart.   But with the 2026 South Dakota State Jackrabbits, it is not difficult to believe there is plenty of steak to go along with the sizzle of being strong Missouri Valley Football Conference favorites and an expected national championship contender from most respected people who follow the sport.   This is despite SDSU's 9-5 record last season under first year coach Dan Jackson and the earliest playoff exit since 2019. The 50-29 loss to Montana in the Round of 16 broke a string of five straight FCS semifinal appearances.   Yet, SDSU brings back wildly talented quarterback Chase Mason, four of its five starting offensive linemen, a spoil of riches at wideout and tight end, and most of a front seven that had plenty of roar for a top 10 scoring defense. That, plus the return of four key playmakers who missed at least several games last season, particularly the four losses in row that nearly derailed a 15th consecutive playoff berth — Mason, reciever Lofton O'Groske, defensive end Reis Kirschenmen and linebacker Chase Van Tol.   Add some intriguing transfers including like Wayne State wrecking ball defensive end Carter Sitzman, and you have yourself some Kool-Aid.   Happy Hour's trip to Brookings on 2026 SDSU Media Day was a chance to taste the steak behind the sizzle.   Everyone Happy Hour chatted with didn't just exclaim that SDSU is far more advanced at this point than last season, but they explained why and gave examples.   Enjoy conversations with: Head coach Dan Jackson   Quarterback Chase Mason   Defensive end and Wayne State transfer Carter Sitzman   Wide receiver Lofton O'Groske   Safety Dontay Johnson   Defensive end Dawson Ripperda