Happy Hour with John Gaskins

Every Friday, "South Dakota Sports Lounge" displays some of the most captivating and entertaining conversations from daily sports talk shows in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Fargo. Plus, Midwest Sports+ reporter Zach Borg provides a compelling feature story to send Dakotas sports fans into the weekend with a smile.   Here are this week's segments:   Happy Hour with John Gaskins (Sioux Falls): Second-year SDSU coach Dan Jackson describes the speech legendary former coach John Stiegelmeier gave his squad, the elevated abilities of already uber-talented quarterback Chase Mason, how the Jacks plan to be far more explosive on offense, and why some top veterans were held out of some August practices ahead of Saturday's season opener against Stetson.   Hot Mic with Dom Izzo (Fargo): Minnesota State-Moorhead coach Steve Laqua beams about the shining NFL preseason performances from former Dragon quarterback Jack Strand in Atlanta, then previews the 2026 season.   The Nate Brown Show (Rapid City): The Voice of the USD Coyotes, John Thayer, projects the top storylines of the only program that has reached the FCS quarterfinals for three consecutive years, including the new leadership of Matt Vitzthum as head coach and redshirt freshman quarterback Austin Modrzewski, who Vitzthum recently selected to take the starting reigns in Saturday's opener against '25 playoff team Central Connecticut State.   Zach Borg Feature (MS+): A "Camp Confidential" series profile on the Pierre Governors, who this season seek their ninth Class 11AA state title in 10 years. You can catch all the "Camp Confidential" profiles here and enjoy live and on-demand broadcasts of Sioux Falls Metro Conference games with your Midwest Sports+ subscription, starting this weekend with:   Friday's doubleheader at Howard Wood Field, which will also be televised live on KSFL-TV, channel 36 (over-the-air) and Midco channel 616:   5 p.m. - Rapid City Central at Sioux Falls Washington   7:30 p.m. - No. 5 O'Gorman at No. 1 Sioux Falls Lincoln   Zach Borg will call the play-by-play of those games, with former Augustana offensive coordinator James Schrenk returning as an MS+ analyst.   On Saturday, MS+ will televise what is anticipated to be the best matchup of the week in South Dakota's 11AAA football — The Tiger Bowl in Harrisburg.   No. 3 Sioux Falls Jefferson will visit No. 4 Harrisburg in rematch of a epic come-from-behind Cavaliers win last season on MS+. You can watch back that instant classic and all of our game replays from 2025 with your MS+ subscription!   Veteran local play-by-play announcer John Gaskins will call the game, also with Schrenk providing analysis.   Soon after these broadcasts conclude, your subscription makes them available "on demand" to watch anytime on midwestsportsplus.com or the MS+ app.   Let the games begin!   

Let the games begin!   Finally, the Jackrabbits, Coyotes, Vikings, Cougars and all the Sioux Falls area 11-man high school teams are kicking off their seasons.   This means the second season of Happy Hour's "Thirsty Thursday Football Forecast" kicks off. The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sportswriter Trent Singer dive into the matchups and "what to watch" for the games involving our local college and prep squads.   While No. 3 SDSU (-47.5 vs. Stetson) and No. 12 USD (-23.5 vs. Central Connecticut State) are heavy favorites to roll at home in their openers, there's plenty of intrigue regarding what both the Jacks and Yotes will look like after fans and media have spent the eight nine months talking and writing about them.   Which players are we most excited to see? How will the quarterbacks perform, and how will offensive game plans be designed? Who might be some breakout players who have yet to take a snap or make a big play in a college football game? Which defensive weak spots may be vulnerable?   Thursday is kickoff for two Div. II teams in Sioux Falls. NSIC coaches rated Augustana No. 3 out of 15 teams in their preseason poll, while USF is slotted at No. 4.   Is either team under "upset alert" in their openers?   Plus, there are three Top 5 matchups involving Sioux Falls metro area teams to preview:   * Class 11AAA — No. 3 SF Jefferson at #4 Harrisburg * Class 11AAA — No. 5 O'Gorman at No. 1 SF Lincoln * Class 11A — No. 1 SF Christian at No. 2 Lennox   Matt Zimmer's wife joins to discuss a serious public school cause   Imagine being a kid at school and being denied lunch.   Sadly, this may happen soon for some K-12 students in the Sioux Falls School District due to the district's $22,300 school lunch debt. Every student has an "account" for school food. In some cases, those accounts accrue negative amounts, and the dreaded "insufficient funds" notice appears, forcing school officials to deny food or provide an insufficient "snack" instead of a meal.   As someone who experienced the anxiety and shame of needing assistance to eat lunch during the school day as a child, Jenn Kenyon Zimmer — wife of Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer and mother of a 10-year-old in the SFSD — and other parents have stepped up to ensure no child goes hungry during a school day.   She wrote a recent Sioux Falls Live column about her mission, along with the nonprofit fundraising group Hungry Hearts SF.   In her conversation with the Happy Hour host, Kenyon Zimmer displays the emotion associated with her past trauma on this topic and explains why donating to SFSD Child Nutrition is worthwhile.

Imagine being a kid at school and being denied lunch.   Sadly, this may happen soon for some K-12 students in the Sioux Falls School District due to the district's $22,300 school lunch debt. Every student has an "account" for school food. In some cases, those accounts accrue negative amounts, and the dreaded "insufficient funds" notice appears, forcing school officials to deny food or provide an insufficient "snack" instead of a meal.   As someone who experienced the anxiety and shame of needing assistance to eat lunch during the school day as a child, Jenn Kenyon Zimmer — wife of Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer and mother of a 10-year-old in the SFSD — and other parents have stepped up to ensure no child goes hungry during a school day.   She wrote a recent Sioux Falls Live column about her mission, along with the nonprofit fundraising group Hungry Hearts SF.   In her conversation with the Happy Hour host, Kenyon Zimmer displays the emotion associated with her past trauma on this topic and explains why donating to SFSD Child Nutrition is worthwhile.  

Let the games begin!   Finally, the Jackrabbits, Coyotes, Vikings, Cougars and all the Sioux Falls area 11-man high school teams are kicking off their seasons.   This means the second season of Happy Hour's "Thirsty Thursday Football Forecast" kicks off. The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sportswriter Trent Singer dive into the matchups and "what to watch" for the games involving our local college and prep squads.   While No. 3 SDSU (-47.5 vs. Stetson) and No. 12 USD (-23.5 vs. Central Connecticut State) are heavy favorites to roll at home in their openers, there's plenty of intrigue regarding what both the Jacks and Yotes will look like after fans and media have spent the eight nine months talking and writing about them.   Which players are we most excited to see? How will the quarterbacks perform, and how will offensive game plans be designed? Who might be some breakout players who have yet to take a snap or make a big play in a college football game? Which defensive weak spots may be vulnerable?   Thursday is kickoff for two Div. II teams in Sioux Falls. NSIC coaches rated Augustana No. 3 out of 15 teams in their preseason poll, while USF is slotted at No. 4.   Is either team under "upset alert" in their openers?   Plus, there are three Top 5 matchups involving Sioux Falls metro area teams to preview:   * Class 11AAA — No. 3 SF Jefferson at #4 Harrisburg * Class 11AAA — No. 5 O'Gorman at No. 1 SF Lincoln * Class 11A — No. 1 SF Christian at No. 2 Lennox  

At this point, all of us college football fans feel like the whiny, impatient toddler in the back seat of a long road trip.   Are we there yet?   No. 3 South Dakota State and No. 12 South Dakota kick off their seasons with home games on Saturday, while Augustana (at Missouri Western) and USF (hosting Black Hills State) get a head start on Thursday. In between, there is a full high school slate on Friday, plus the "Tiger Bowl" between Sioux Falls Jefferson and Harrisburg on Saturday (which you can see on Midwest Sports Plus).   For over a month since Missouri Valley Football Conference Media Day, Sioux Falls Live sportswriters and the Happy Hour host have pumped out daily stories and shows about Jackrabbit and Coyote football, covering almost every imaginable angle.   On Happy Hour, we've had a Jackrabbit Day (from SDSU's official media day on Aug. 16), Coyote Day (USD did not have an official media day, but we did a USD show on Aug. 18), and an Augie & USF Day.   Last week, Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer teamed with the Happy Hour host for a two-volume College Football Preview Show— one for the Jacks and Yotes and one for the Vikings and Cougars.   On Monday's Happy Hour, SDSU coach Dan Jackson expressed why he is eager and optimistic — particularly about quarterback Chase Mason — for a run to national championship contention after a turbulent 9-5 campaign in his first season. That night, USD's Matt Vitzthum revealed that freshman Austin Modrzewski won the three-horse quarterback race and will start on Saturday against Central Connecticut State. The next day Vitzthum fielded several questions on Happy Hour about why the former two-time Colorado Gatorade Player of the Year beat a pair of seniors.   So, what's left to say?   Oh, plenty. That's always the case when Zimmer and the host get together over beers at Gateway Lounge in Sioux Falls. In the final preseason show, the two break down what they are most eager to see and what to expect from SDSU and USD based on their in-depth coverage of the teams throughout August camp.   There is also one last glimpse into Augustana and USF, plus three select local high school games all involving Top 5 head-to-head matchups.   But first, a toast to Dolly Parton.   Drinking beer, talking sports, and regaling over Dolly.   What a way to make a living!    

The rookie head coach at USD is riding with a freshman quarterback.   That's a bold move, but on Monday, Matt Vitzthum detailed why Austin Modrzewski beat out a pair of senior FBS transfers (both from Northern Illinois): Jackson Proctor and Nevan Cremascoli.   On Tuesday, the Happy Hour host took Vitzthum—who was the Coyotes' quarterbacks coach for two seasons before taking over the program after Travis Johansen left for the Rutgers defensive coordinator job in February—for a much deeper dive to explain why the freshman became The Man.   The job wasn't won by physical tools alone, including his 6'5" height and a rocket arm, for the two-time Colorado Gatorade Player of the Year.   The freshman will not be the signal caller starting Saturday against Central Connecticut State because the head coach wants to start developing Modrzewski now so he'll flourish and be even more polished for years to come... although that is a potential byproduct.   This is the portal era, babe. Nothing in the future is assumed or guaranteed. So how did the kid out-perform more experienced players, one (Proctor) who played in 27 FCS games, went 8-2, and completed a school-record 68 percent of his passes at Dartmouth two years ago?   What is the kid's personality like? When was the moment this month Vitzthum realized Modrzewski was ready?    Oh, there's plenty more to the Yotes than the QB1. Like... QB2. Where does that stand at the moment for Vitzthum? Why is Vitzthum so confident in an offensive line returning just one starter from last year's USD squad?   And what challenges does CCSU present?    Before the "Vitz" chat, the Happy Host harps on the significance of the QB1 decision.   After "Vitz," a conversation with one of the most respected analysts and writers covering FCS football.   Sam Herder built a large and loyal following over the last eight years at HERO Sports. Then, that operation's parent company, BetMGM, laid off Herder on Monday.   The NDSU alumnus immediately pivoted to being his own boss. Herder explains why he is so passionate about the FCS level and why he wants to keep covering it for a living.   Plus, Herder covers: * The impact of NDSU's exit on the FCS brand   * Who, if anyone, besides the Montana schools and South Dakota State, will carry the FCS torch?   * Should we realistically expect those above schools (plus USD and UND) to move "up" to the FBS within the next five years?   * Is Chase Mason as NFL-ready a quarterback Herder has seen in the FCS after almost 15 yerars of covering that subdivision?   * What is his reaction to the Yotes choosing Modrzewski at QB1?   * How much of a hit will UND take with the loss of its best defensive player Lance Rucker?      

It's a whopper decision to start a freshman quarterback, especially when a pair of seniors appeared to be qualified for the position.  The Happy Hour host breaks down the relevance and gravity of Austin Modrzewski earning the gig at USD and why this isn't a traditional decision about starting a freshman. 

A conversation with one of the most respected analysts and writers covering FCS football.   Sam Herder built a large and loyal following over the last eight years at HERO Sports. Then, that operation's parent company, BetMGM, laid off Herder on Monday.   The NDSU alumnus immediately pivoted to being his own boss. Herder explains why he is so passionate about the FCS level and why he wants to keep covering it for a living.   Plus, Herder covers: * The impact of NDSU's exit on the FCS brand   * Who, if anyone, besides the Montana schools and South Dakota State, will carry the FCS torch?   * Should we realistically expect those above schools (plus USD and UND) to move "up" to the FBS within the next five years?   * Is Chase Mason as NFL-ready a quarterback Herder has seen in the FCS after almost 15 yerars of covering that subdivision?   * What is his reaction to the Yotes choosing Modrzewski at QB1?   * How much of a hit will UND take with the loss of its best defensive player Lance Rucker?

Matt Vitzthum deep dive on QB1 choice, O-Line strength & Central Connecticut State

We all know why Chase Mason is one of the most highly anticipated FCS players in the country to watch in 2026.   Physical specimen. Looks like a jacked superhero. Rocket arm. Runs like a deer. Just a stick of dynamite waiting to explode.   And this is it— His last chance to not just be the golden boy, but have a golden year. To win the Walter Payton Award. To bring the FCS National Championship Trophy back to Brookings. To get as high on that NFL Draft board as he possibly can.   There is zero reason to believe he won't be in the running for both achievements. That the Jacks offense won't be more explosive than their 9-5 campaign last year, when they were 8-1 and averaged 37 points with Mason at quarterback and 1-4 while averaging fewer than 20 points without him.    First, look at him and watch his career highlights.   Then, there's the stats. Perhaps you've memorized them, but in case you haven't:   6'4, 240 lb. At a recent practice, he reportedly ran at 22 miles per hour, which equates to roughly a 4.4 in the 40.   The game stats: Last year, in nine games, he threw 15 touchdown passes and ran for six more while averaging 223 passing yards per game and nine yards per attempt. That's two yards more per attempt than the NFL average, meaning he completes passes downfield at a high level.   Mason completed 65 percent of his passes, one percent higher than the NFL average.    These stats weren't racked up against nothing but tomato cans. He was efficient and brilliant and clutch at Montana State, the eventual national champion. He won a shootout with the Walter Payton winner Beau Brungard at Youngstown. There was the nuking of New Hampshire in the playoffs. He had not played in six weeks after a foot injury that left him in a walking boot, and he was nearly perfect— 16 of 20 for 230, 3 TDs, 0 picks, just firing lasers in the snow. He threw for over 370 yards at Montana, the final No. 3 team, in the playoffs.   Yet, to the Happy Hour host, none of those numbers as important as the one stat of Mason's that was glaringly low, yet needs to be lower for him to take home both individual and team national hardware in his last hurrah.   The Happy Hour host reveals that one stat while second year SDSU coach Dan Jackson describes Mason's development during fall camp ahead of Saturday's game.   Jackson also details:   * Why some of SDSU's best veteran players sat out multiple August practices and what their status is for Saturday   * Who is emerging to be the starting running back and backup quarterback   * What is in place to prevent a collapse in what Jackson has stated to be a strong culture and chemistry in the program among players and coaches   * What message legend John Stiegelmeier sent while speaking to the team recently   * What about Stetson, the lowest-rated team in the FCS last year and a 47-point underdog Saturday, concerns the coaching staff   After Jackson, Sioux Falls Jefferson coach Eric Struck—also in his second year at the helm— previews his Cavaliers, who finished as the No. 3 ranked team in South Dakota's largest high school class last year and is the preseason No.3 in the first media poll.   Why does Struck prefer playing with two quarterbacks instead of one, and why will he handle the two-pronged attack differently this season?   How much of a force will Lincoln transfer Devonte Wilson be at running back as the Cavs replace the JHS all-time leading rusher, Daeveon Simsonsen, and what can we expect of the usually blitz-happy defense of Ed Whiting?

Sioux Falls Jefferson coach Eric Struck—in his second year at the helm— previews his Cavaliers, who finished as the No. 3 ranked team in South Dakota's largest high school class last year and is the preseason No.3 in the first media poll.   Why does Struck prefer playing with two quarterbacks instead of one, and why will he handle the two-pronged attack differently this season?   How much of a force will Lincoln transfer Devonte Wilson be at running back as the Cavs replace the JHS all-time leading rusher, Daeveon Simsonsen, and what can we expect of the usually blitz-happy defense of Ed Whiting?

We all know why Chase Mason is one of the most highly anticipated FCS players in the country to watch in 2026.   Physical specimen. Looks like a jacked superhero. Rocket arm. Runs like a deer. Just a stick of dynamite waiting to explode.   And this is it— His last chance to not just be the golden boy, but have a golden year. To win the Walter Payton Award. To bring the FCS National Championship Trophy back to Brookings. To get as high on that NFL Draft board as he possibly can.   There is zero reason to believe he won't be in the running for both achievements. That the Jacks offense won't be more explosive than their 9-5 campaign last year, when they were 8-1 and averaged 37 points with Mason at quarterback and 1-4 while averaging fewer than 20 points without him.    First, look at him and watch his career highlights.   Then, there's the stats. Perhaps you've memorized them, but in case you haven't:   6'4, 240 lb. At a recent practice, he reportedly ran at 22 miles per hour, which equates to roughly a 4.4 in the 40.   The game stats: Last year, in nine games, he threw 15 touchdown passes and ran for six more while averaging 223 passing yards per game and nine yards per attempt. That's two yards more per attempt than the NFL average, meaning he completes passes downfield at a high level.   Mason completed 65 percent of his passes, one percent higher than the NFL average.    These stats weren't racked up against nothing but tomato cans. He was efficient and brilliant and clutch at Montana State, the eventual national champion. He won a shootout with the Walter Payton winner Beau Brungard at Youngstown. There was the nuking of New Hampshire in the playoffs. He had not played in six weeks after a foot injury that left him in a walking boot, and he was nearly perfect— 16 of 20 for 230, 3 TDs, 0 picks, just firing lasers in the snow. He threw for over 370 yards at Montana, the final No. 3 team, in the playoffs.   Yet, to the Happy Hour host, none of those numbers as important as the one stat of Mason's that was glaringly low, yet needs to be lower for him to take home both individual and team national hardware in his last hurrah.

SDSU coach Dan Jackson describes Mason's development during fall camp ahead of Saturday's game.   Jackson also details:   * Why some of SDSU's best veteran players sat out multiple August practices and what their status is for Saturday   * Who is emerging to be the starting running back and backup quarterback   * What is in place to prevent a collapse in what Jackson has stated to be a strong culture and chemistry in the program among players and coaches   * What message legend John Stiegelmeier sent while speaking to the team recently   * What about Stetson, the lowest-rated team in the FCS last year and a 47-point underdog Saturday, concerns the coaching staff

Every Friday, "South Dakota Sports Lounge" displays some of the most captivating and entertaining conversations from daily sports talk shows in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Fargo. Plus, Midwest Sports+ reporter Zach Borg provides a compelling feature story to send Dakotas sports fans into the weekend with a smile.   Here are this week's segments:   Happy Hour with John Gaskins (Sioux Falls): The host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor break down the differing quarterback situations at SDSU and USD. While the Jackrabbits know exactly the potent talent they have in Chase Mason, the Coyotes are still holding auditions for the signal caller who will try to fill the gargantuan shoes of three-year starter and USD FCS records holder Aidan Bouman.   Hot Mic with Dom Izzo (Fargo): 1-on-1 interview with NDSU head football coach Tim Polasek during his final media availability for Bison fall camp. He updates Izoo on injuries and the final scrimmage ahead of their first week of preparation for the first FBS season.    The Nate Brown Show (Rapid City): Doug Gottlieb, Wisconsin-Green Bay men's head basketball coach and former nationally syndicated media personality, talks with Nate the day it was announced his team will play SDSU in Sioux Falls at the Pentagon on December 21st. They also discuss Gottlieb's first two seasons at the helm and what the strides he expects the Phoenix to make in his third campaign.   Zach Borg Feature (MS+):  From SDSU Media Day, Jackrabbit football players utter 'Dan Jackson-isms,' phrases often used by their second-year head coach.

The NSIC is a Division II league, yet Minnesota State has about 3,000-5,000 more students than Division I (FCS) powerhouses South Dakota State (12,100) and South Dakota (10,400). Minnesota-Duluth's student body almost matches USD's enrollment.   If you combined the student bodies of Augustana and the University of Sioux Falls (4,050), MSU would still have nearly four times the enrollment and Minnesota-Duluth would have over twice their combined student bodies.   Not surprisingly, those two giant Minnesota public schools are consistently two of the NSIC's best football programs and occasionally thrust themselves into national championship contention, especially the program in Mankato.   Yet, tiny private institutions Augie and USF, separated literally by two blocks in central Sioux Falls, have been consistent contenders for the league title and Div. II playoffs for over a decade... and they're expected to be stout again in 2026.   How? Why?   Coaching helps, to say the least.    Under Augie all-time wins leader Jerry Olszewski, the Vikings are 91-47 in 12 seasons. In 2023 and '24, he guided the school to its first two conference titles since 1959. Last season, his squad started 9-0 and ascended to a No. 5 national ranking before injuries and a pair of late-season losses kept them out of the postseason. Yet still, Augie completed the first stretch of three consecutive seasons where the Vikings finished ranked in the nation's final Top 25 poll.   Ten of "Coach OJ's" 12 seasons have resulted in a winning record. The Vikings have won at least nine games in four of the last six seasons and achieved at least seven victories in nine of the last 10 campaigns.   Former Minnesota State defensive coordinator Jim Glogowski enters his fourth year as USF coach after posting 8-3 and 7-4 records the last two seasons. His first year in 2023, following a hasty hiring and massive roster overturn, resulted in USF's only losing record (3-8) in the last 32 seasons, a stretch that included the impressive tenures of Bob Young, Kalen DeBoer, Jed Stugart and Jon Anderson. Young's "Winners Win" mentality continues to ring true for the former NAIA four-time national champion that moved up to Div. II in 2011 and the NSIC in '12.    Both coaches joined the Happy Hour host to give "State of the Program" overviews ahead of their season openers next week on Thursday, Aug. 27 — Augie at Missouri Western and USF hosting Black Hills State under the lights.   Hear deep dives into both teams' quarterback rooms — particularly proven starters Gunnar Hensley (Augie) and Tate Schafer (USF) and their trusted backups — plus a thorough scan of the rosters to identify "players to watch."   While both teams are proud of their recent success, both coaches detail the aspects that kept them out of the difficult-to-reach Div. II playoffs last November and how they can reach the postseason in 2026. (A win for either team in the annually-anticipated "Key to the City Game" on Oct. 3 could go a long way.)   Before you hear from the coaches, the Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer — who has covered both programs for over 20 years — do their own deep dive into the Vikings and "Coo," including an overview of both squads' demanding schedules. Plus, a cursory overview of the NSIC, Northern State, and Dakota State. The latter two squads have high expectiations for this season, as well.  

The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer — who has covered both programs for over 20 years — do their own deep dive into the Vikings and "Coo," including an overview of both squads' demanding schedules. Plus, a cursory overview of the NSIC, Northern State, and Dakota State. The latter two squads have high expectiations for this season, as well.

"Coach OJ" joined the Happy Hour host to give his "State of the Program" overview ahead of Augie's season opener next week on Thursday, Aug. 27 at Missouri Western under the lights.   Hear a deep dive into the quarterback room, particularly glowing remarks about starter Gunnar Hensley, plus a thorough scan of the roster to identify "players to watch."   While Augie is proud of its ongoing program success, OJ details the aspects that kept the Coo out of the difficult-to-reach Div. II playoffs last November and how they can reach the postseason in 2026.    Under Augie all-time wins leader Jerry Olszewski, the Vikings are 91-47 in 12 seasons. In 2023 and '24, he guided the school to its first two conference titles since 1959. Last season, his squad started 9-0 and ascended to a No. 5 national ranking before injuries and a pair of late-season losses kept them out of the postseason. Yet still, Augie completed the first stretch of three consecutive seasons where the Vikings finished ranked in the nation's final Top 25 poll.   Ten of "Coach OJ's" 12 seasons have resulted in a winning record. The Vikings have won at least nine games in four of the last six seasons and achieved at least seven victories in nine of the last 10 campaigns.

Former Minnesota State defensive coordinator Jim Glogowski enters his fourth year as USF coach after posting 8-3 and 7-4 records the last two seasons. His first year in 2023, following a hasty hiring and massive roster overturn, resulted in USF's only losing record (3-8) in the last 32 seasons, a stretch that included the impressive tenures of Bob Young, Kalen DeBoer, Jed Stugart and Jon Anderson. Young's "Winners Win" mentality continues to ring true for the former NAIA four-time national champion that moved up to Div. II in 2011 and the NSIC in '12.    "Coach Glo" joined the Happy Hour host to give his "State of the Program" overview ahead of USF's season opener next week on Thursday, Aug. 27 at home against Black Hills State under the lights.   Hear a deep dive into both teams' quarterback room, plus a thorough scan of the roster to identify "players to watch."   While USF is proud of its ongoing program success, Glogowski details the aspects that kept the Coo out of the difficult-to-reach Div. II playoffs last November and how they can reach the postseason in 2026. 

The more things change with USD Football, the more they stay the same.   The Coyotes begin the 2026 season — stop if you've heard or read this sentence a trillion times — with a third different head coach in the last three seasons.   Bob Nielson retired after back-to-back FCS quarterfinal appearances in 2023 and '24. Travis Johansen left to become Rutgers defensive coordinator after a third consecutive "Elite Eight" FCS showing in '25.   After each of those seasons, USD lost several of its best players on both sides of the ball to either graduation or the transfer portal. This season, steadying force and USD's FCS QB GOAT Aidan Bouman is not leading the offense for the first time in four years — USD's last season without a postseason.   And yet, the Yotes are the only team in the nation to reach the quarterfinals three years in a row and a fourth consecutive trip would not shock anyone.   Sure, it would surprise some, given the new head coach, new quarterback, mostly new starting offensive line, and a retooled defensive line.   Stop if you have heard or read this before — USD has so many "question marks" at key spots that, despite being among the nation's last eight teams standing three straight seasons, the Yotes start the season outside the Top 10 of the STATS preseason poll and are picked fifth out of nine teams in the loaded Missouri Valley Football Conference.    And yet, things feel solid and stable in Vermillion. Why is that? What is in the stable that makes new (and rookie) head coach Matt Vitzthum and many Coyote fans confident despite constant annual change?   Well, that's what Happy Hour's "USD Day" show investigates.   John Thayer, the seventh-year Voice of the Coyotes, has been around the program for nearly 15 seasons and has a broad perspective on what steadies a once-shaky program.   And, as someone who has inside-the-ropes access to the spring and August practices, Thayer details with the Happy Hour host what will make the Yotes tick in '26.   Then, a couple of veteran USD players who faced each other in youth football in Miami about a decade ago explain what they see and go against every day in the DakotaDome or the outdoor practice field next to it.   Running back Charles Pierre Jr. and linebacker Gabe Hardman also share this in common — being raised on football from an early age by fathers who played their sons' positions at the FBS level.   Pierre Jr. also shares a bond with fellow running back Keyondray Jones-Logan — the heartbreak and headache of early-season injuries that kept them off the field for a bunch of 2025 and the motivation of making up for lost time in '26.   The former details to the Happy Hour host the injury at Lamar that ended his season and subjected him to the training room while backup running back L.J. Phillips burst right out of the gate and finished as the top FCS rusher in the nation, which earned him an assumed hefty payday at Iowa.   After over an hour of insight, it will become clearer why the present and future look bright at USD despite the mysterious cloud of change once again circling the DakotaDome.

A couple of veteran USD players who faced each other in youth football in Miami about a decade ago explain what they see and go against every day in the DakotaDome or the outdoor practice field next to it.   Running back Charles Pierre Jr. and linebacker Gabe Hardman also share this in common — being raised on football from an early age by fathers who played their sons' positions at the FBS level.   Pierre Jr. also shares a bond with fellow running back Keyondray Jones-Logan — the heartbreak and headache of early-season injuries that kept them off the field for a bunch of 2025 and the motivation of making up for lost time in '26.   The former details to the Happy Hour host the injury at Lamar that ended his season and subjected him to the training room while backup running back L.J. Phillips burst right out of the gate and finished as the top FCS rusher in the nation, which earned him an assumed hefty payday at Iowa.   After over an hour of insight, it will become clearer why the present and future look bright at USD despite the mysterious cloud of change once again circling the DakotaDome.

The preseason All-American describes what being "the heart and soul" of the Yotes means to him, the fierce youth football competition in South Florida, being the son of a former FBS linebacker, and how he landed then thrived in Vermillion.

The seventh-year Voice of the Coyotes has been around the program for nearly 15 seasons and has a broad perspective on what steadies a once-shaky program.   And, as someone who has inside-the-ropes access to the spring and August practices, Thayer details with the Happy Hour host what will make the Yotes tick in '26.

If you need a one-hour, one-stop shop to be absolutely armed with the information required for the Jackrabbits and Coyotes 2026 football seasons, this is it.   We'll make it fun for you, as well, with both big picture and deep dive conversations.   Since New Year's Day, Happy Hour has spent dozens of hours covering SDSU and USD football, conducting comprehensive and periodic interviews with head coaches, program legends and the occasional current player.   Sioux Falls Live sports section has also pumped out a plethora of stories about the two Div. I teams in the Rushmore State for several months as well.   But if you took an offseason hibernation from Jacks and Yotes content, this is the perfect show for you.   If you've been following us step-for-step, this is also perfect for you, with up-to-date nuggets on key developments in August camp.   The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer bring over 35 combined years of experience covering State and U football to their weekly "Nobody's Listening Anyway" podcast. They have spent six years developing it into a entertaining, "must listen" show that brings objective insight and opinions to those fan bases... well, at least they think so. Don't you?   Why should we expect an explosive, national championship contending season from Chase Mason and the Jackrabbits?   Why aren't the Coyotes generating as much hype... and yet, why could they be just as hot on the tails of the two Montana schools (preseason No. 1 MSU and No. 2 Montana) on the road to Nashville?   Enjoy an hour of roster diving, schedule perusing and anticipation of what's to come.    Plus, we spared you the trite predictions usually found in a preseason special. We don't want to lose you money.

If you need a one-hour, one-stop shop to be absolutely armed with the information required for the Jackrabbits and Coyotes 2026 football seasons, this is it.   We'll make it fun for you, as well, with both big picture and deep dive conversations.   Since New Year's Day, Happy Hour has spent dozens of hours covering SDSU and USD football, conducting comprehensive and periodic interviews with head coaches, program legends and the occasional current player.   Sioux Falls Live sports section has also pumped out a plethora of stories about the two Div. I teams in the Rushmore State for several months as well.   But if you took an offseason hibernation from Jacks and Yotes content, this is the perfect show for you.   If you've been following us step-for-step, this is also perfect for you, with up-to-date nuggets on key developments in August camp.   The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer bring over 35 combined years of experience covering State and U football to their weekly "Nobody's Listening Anyway" podcast. They have spent six years developing it into a entertaining, "must listen" show that brings objective insight and opinions to those fan bases... well, at least they think so. Don't you?   Why should we expect an explosive, national championship contending season from Chase Mason and the Jackrabbits?   Why aren't the Coyotes generating as much hype... and yet, why could they be just as hot on the tails of the two Montana schools (preseason No. 1 MSU and No. 2 Montana) on the road to Nashville?   Enjoy an hour of roster diving, schedule perusing and anticipation of what's to come.    Plus, we spared you the trite predictions usually found in a preseason special. We don't want to lose you money.

If you need a one-hour, one-stop shop to be absolutely armed with the information required for the Jackrabbits and Coyotes 2026 football seasons, this is it.   We'll make it fun for you, as well, with both big picture and deep dive conversations.   Since New Year's Day, Happy Hour has spent dozens of hours covering SDSU and USD football, conducting comprehensive and periodic interviews with head coaches, program legends and the occasional current player.   Sioux Falls Live sports section has also pumped out a plethora of stories about the two Div. I teams in the Rushmore State for several months as well.   But if you took an offseason hibernation from Jacks and Yotes content, this is the perfect show for you.   If you've been following us step-for-step, this is also perfect for you, with up-to-date nuggets on key developments in August camp.   The Happy Hour host and Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer bring over 35 combined years of experience covering State and U football to their weekly "Nobody's Listening Anyway" podcast. They have spent six years developing it into a entertaining, "must listen" show that brings objective insight and opinions to those fan bases... well, at least they think so. Don't you?   Why should we expect an explosive, national championship contending season from Chase Mason and the Jackrabbits?   Why aren't the Coyotes generating as much hype... and yet, why could they be just as hot on the tails of the two Montana schools (preseason No. 1 MSU and No. 2 Montana) on the road to Nashville?   Enjoy an hour of roster diving, schedule perusing and anticipation of what's to come.    Plus, we spared you the trite predictions usually found in a preseason special. We don't want to lose you money.

In the last 50 years of USD football, only one three-year stretch rivals the success and buzz of the last three.   Scott Jones has been a major part of both runs.   The Coyotes' starting quarterback of the 1985 and '86 teams — both of which won at least 10 games and reached the semifinals — is also one of the most influential alumni and boosters in the USD stratosphere.    Born and raised in Sioux Falls and still living there, Jones is seemingly doing whatever it takes to ensure USD doesn't just extend its three-year streak of reaching the FCS quarterfinals, but breaks through to its first FCS national championship game, which in 2026 would be its first title appearance since Jones led the Yotes to the 1986 Div. II final.   In July 2024, the school announced Jones, the president of water tower construction company Maguire Iron, had made the largest private family gift contribution the USD athletic department had ever received (T. Denny Sanford's $20 million a year later would surpass the donation).   "Seven figures" went into the newest phase of DakotaDome renovations and the Jones' gift was also poured into "general athletic scholarships and event support for the entirety of the USD athletic department."   The offensive coordinator position was renamed "The Scott and Lisa Jones Family Offensive Coordinator," currently held by Tim Morrison.     Jones generated offense by the truckload during his time in Vermillion under young head coach Dave Triplett.    The O'Gorman alumnus still holds five school records, including career rushing touchdowns (37), most rushing yards by a quarterback in one season (883 in 1986), most rushing touchdowns in a game (5 vs SDSU in 1986) and most points scored in a game (30, same game).   His last game at USD was a 27-7 loss to North Dakota State in that 1986 Div. II national championship, after which Triplett famously quipped of the Bison, "I wish they'd get the hell out of Division II."    NDSU would win two more D2 titles before moving to the FCS in 2004 with South Dakota State. USD and UND stayed in Div. II for four more seasons before joining their in-state rivals in D1.   Now, with the Bison having moved out of the FCS and into the FBS starting this fall, and with plenty wondering if schools like USD and SDSU will join them eventually, Jones weighs in on the arms race he is part of as a high-level donor.   How much of his contributions go to NIL? Does does Jones believe USD will have the resources it takes to move up a class like the Bison?   In an over 50-minute Happy Hour conversation at Gibs Sports Bar near his home on the east side of Sioux Falls, Jones answers these questions and takes a stroll down memory lane from his days in Vermillion and at O'Gorman, where he played for legendary coach Bob Burns and led the Knights to the first ever Class 11AA state championship of the playoff era in 1981.    Before the Jones chat, the Happy Hour host updated the Yotes' current QB situation — the three-horse race appears to be far from done — and walked through SDSU's national championship hopes, which he feels are aided by the high volume of walk-ons who will play key roles in 2026.    

In the last 50 years of USD football, only one three-year stretch rivals the success and buzz of the last three.   Scott Jones has been a major part of both runs.   The Coyotes' starting quarterback of the 1985 and '86 teams — both of which won at least 10 games and reached the semifinals — is also one of the most influential alumni and boosters in the USD stratosphere.    Born and raised in Sioux Falls and still living there, Jones is seemingly doing whatever it takes to ensure USD doesn't just extend its three-year streak of reaching the FCS quarterfinals, but breaks through to its first FCS national championship game, which in 2026 would be its first title appearance since Jones led the Yotes to the 1986 Div. II final.   In July 2024, the school announced Jones, the president of water tower construction company Maguire Iron, had made the largest private family gift contribution the USD athletic department had ever received (T. Denny Sanford's $20 million a year later would surpass the donation).   "Seven figures" went into the newest phase of DakotaDome renovations and the Jones' gift was also poured into "general athletic scholarships and event support for the entirety of the USD athletic department."   The offensive coordinator position was renamed "The Scott and Lisa Jones Family Offensive Coordinator," currently held by Tim Morrison.     Jones generated offense by the truckload during his time in Vermillion under young head coach Dave Triplett.    The O'Gorman alumnus still holds five school records, including career rushing touchdowns (37), most rushing yards by a quarterback in one season (883 in 1986), most rushing touchdowns in a game (5 vs SDSU in 1986) and most points scored in a game (30, same game).   His last game at USD was a 27-7 loss to North Dakota State in that 1986 Div. II national championship, after which Triplett famously quipped of the Bison, "I wish they'd get the hell out of Division II."    NDSU would win two more D2 titles before moving to the FCS in 2004 with South Dakota State. USD and UND stayed in Div. II for four more seasons before joining their in-state rivals in D1.   Now, with the Bison having moved out of the FCS and into the FBS starting this fall, and with plenty wondering if schools like USD and SDSU will join them eventually, Jones weighs in on the arms race he is part of as a high-level donor.   How much of his contributions go to NIL? Does does Jones believe USD will have the resources it takes to move up a class like the Bison?   In an over 50-minute Happy Hour conversation at Gibs Sports Bar near his home on the east side of Sioux Falls, Jones answers these questions and takes a stroll down memory lane from his days in Vermillion and at O'Gorman, where he played for legendary coach Bob Burns and led the Knights to the first ever Class 11AA state championship of the playoff era in 1981.    Before the Jones chat, the Happy Hour host updated the Yotes' current QB situation — the three-horse race appears to be far from done — and walked through SDSU's national championship hopes, which he feels are aided by the high volume of walk-ons who will play key roles in 2026.    

The Happy Hour host updated the Yotes' current QB situation — the three-horse race appears to be far from done — explained why a lack of starters from the 2025 offensive line doesn't make for a shaky 2026 line, and walked through SDSU's national championship hopes, which he feels are aided by the high volume of walk-ons who will play key roles in 2026.

Each week, the South Dakota Sports Lounge gives you a look at some of the best sports talk across the state. This week, we focus on football as kickoff is just 2 weeks away.    Happy Hour with John Gaskins: Head coach of the Jackrabbits, Dan Jackson, joins Happy Hour from SDSU Media Day in Brookings. He talks about expectations for the coming season and how he believes depth will help with some of the issues the team saw last year.   Hot Mic with Dom Izzo: We feature an interview with Sam Herder on the state of the FCS as a whole as NDSU moves onto the FBS.   Nate Brown Show:  Nate has a 1-on-1 with Jon Schemmel, USD's Athletic Director, on the state of USD Athletics heading into the fall.   Hog Wild: Zach Borg presents a feature on SDSU's offensive line, which looks to lead a resurgence

Eric Eidsness is in his fourth stint at SDSU and his second season as offensive coordinator under Jackson. When in the same role under Stiegelmeier, Eidsness led some of the most explosive offenses in Jacks history.   With uber-talented senior Chase Mason at quarterback and almost the entire offensive line and top receivers back, what does Eidsness foresee with a potentially lethal 2026 offense?   How has Mason evolved as both a QB and leader since a promising 2025 season cut short by injury (before returning late in the season)?    Who is emerging as the No. 2 QB behind Mason? Who is emerging as the top running back... or will it be an RB-by-committee?  

So much is the same, yet so much is different.   That's how South Dakota State defensive coordinator Brian Bergstrom feels about his second stint at SDSU, with three years as Div. II Winona State's head coach in between.   Bergstrom coached for five years under John Stiegelmeier as safeties coach and co-defensive coordinator before leaving in 2022, before Stig's final season ended with a national championship.   Now, "Bergie" starts his second season as the solo DC under Dan Jackson. What does he mean by "so much is the same, yet so much is different?"   How does Bergstrom size up his talented and experienced defense? It ranked highly among all FCS teams in many defensive categories but was "inconsistent" and finished with a 50-29 loss at Montana.   Eric Eidsness is in his fourth stint at SDSU and his second season as offensive coordinator under Jackson. When in the same role under Stiegelmeier, Eidsness led some of the most explosive offenses in Jacks history.   With uber-talented senior Chase Mason at quarterback and almost the entire offensive line and top receivers back, what does Eidsness foresee with a potentially lethal 2026 offense?   How has Mason evolved as both a QB and leader since a promising 2025 season cut short by injury (before returning late in the season)?    Who is emerging as the No. 2 QB behind Mason? Who is emerging as the top running back... or will it be an RB-by-committee?   But our SDSU Media Day, Vol. 2 "Coaches Show" starts with the coach of all football coaches in Brookings, John Stiegelmeier.   Now in his fourth season of retirement, what does he miss most about leading the Jacks? How did he approach August camp in developing a national championship-contending team? What are his observations of the talent and coaching he has seen lately by attending some practices?   Stig just returned from his first visit to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, where former SDSU kicker Adam Vinatieri was inducted over the weekend. What was that experience like and how did Stig feel about Vinatieri omitting his time at SDSU in his nearly 20 minute induction speech?   Also included in this show from SDSU Media Day are two interviews from Midwest Sports Plus sports reporter Zach Borg:   * SDSU volleyball coach Dan Georgalas details what he calls one of the biggest college volleyball transformations in the country and describes what to expect this fall   * SDSU soccer coach Brock Thompson previews his 2026 squad

SDSU Media Day, Vol. 2 "Coaches Show" starts with the coach of all football coaches in Brookings, John Stiegelmeier.   Now in his fourth season of retirement, what does he miss most about leading the Jacks? How did he approach August camp in developing a national championship-contending team? What are his observations of the talent and coaching he has seen lately by attending some practices?   Stig just returned from his first visit to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, where former SDSU kicker Adam Vinatieri was inducted over the weekend. What was that experience like and how did Stig feel about Vinatieri omitting his time at SDSU in his nearly 20 minute induction speech?

So much is the same, yet so much is different.   That's how South Dakota State defensive coordinator Brian Bergstrom feels about his second stint at SDSU, with three years as Div. II Winona State's head coach in between.   Bergstrom coached for five years under John Stiegelmeier as safeties coach and co-defensive coordinator before leaving in 2022, before Stig's final season ended with a national championship.   Now, "Bergie" starts his second season as the solo DC under Dan Jackson. What does he mean by "so much is the same, yet so much is different?"   How does Bergstrom size up his talented and experienced defense? It ranked highly among all FCS teams in many defensive categories but was "inconsistent" and finished with a 50-29 loss at Montana.  

From SDSU Media Day, the head coach deep dives about how much smoother his operation is during August camp this season compared his first campaign in 2025 and how it should pay dividends in results.

From SDSU Media Day, the QB1 breaks down reasons why big things should be expected of him and the Jacks offense in 2026

The defensive end was lightly recruited out of Lincoln Christian High School, but after blowing up in D2 Wayne, the Jacks and other FBS schools came calling. How does he compared the competition level at D2 vs SDSU?

O'Groske exploded into an instant star last season in the Jacks' mammoth win over eventual national champion Montana State but was hurt two weeks later, then again a couple weeks after that. Also... what is it like to catch missiles from Chase Mason?

Kirschenmen describes the pain and anguish of last season's injury and how well put-together the '26 defense is. Johnson and Ripperda each had unique journeys to SDSU. Johnson was committed to hometown Colorado State before a coaching change while Ripperda — a local product from Larchwood — started college at FBS Northern Illinois before choosing to walk away from his scholarship and walk-on at SDSU (before earning a scholarship with the Jacks). 

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  

Now, we're getting somewhere.   In the last few days, the Minnesota Vikings and South Dakota Coyotes signaled that the football season is close to actually happening.   Kyler Murray was (finally) named the Vikings starter on Tuesday, a few days after Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer reported freshman Austin Moderzewski is the front runner to take the Coyotes' reins.   So, let's talk.   Zimmer joined the Happy Hour host for their weekly "Nobody's Listening Anyway" get-together at Gateway Lounge to react to those developments, plus opine on South Dakota State quarterback Chase Mason's potential for a colossal senior season in Brookings for a Jackrabbits squad picked to win the Missouri Valley Football Conference and slotted at No. 3 — behind Montana and Montana State — in the STATS Top 25 preseason poll.   After all, August isn't just camp season. It's quarterback season.   What about this whole situation makes die-hard fan Zim think the Vikings are destined to miss the playoffs and fire Kevin O'Connell? Why does the Happy Hour host disagree and expect a potentially big season?  Was the Murray vs. McCarthy "open competition" a sham? Did it stunt Murray's growth in learning and processing the Vikings' offense? (Yes, that's an intended pun. You're welcome).   Why does Modrzweski get the (so far) firm lion's share of the No. 1 reps at USD, and how does a freshman beating a couple seniors for a QB1 gig differ in 2026 from the days before NIL and the wild wild west transfer portal?   Besides Mason's majestic arm, build, speed, and athleticism, what suggests he's in store for a monster 2026?    That last question leads the talkers down the Mark Gronowski rabbit hole. The Jackrabbit GOAT QB was just cut by the Miami Dolphins, who had signed him as an undrafted free agent. Was playing his senior year at Iowa (for $1 million to $2 million in reported NIL) a mistake?   Beyond the quarterbacks, Zim and the HHH dig into other positions at USD, the Minnesota Twins' continued drag toward contention for the wild card and even the A.L. Central title, and the "Dead Guy of the Week," an iconic basketball coach who didn't win an NBA title (as a coach) but certainly finished his post-hoops life winning... at life.     

South Dakota native and SDSU alumnus Adam Vinatieri sure packed a lot into his nearly 19-minute Pro Football Hall of Fame speech on Saturday:   * The common "thank you's" to people who helped get him there— parents, siblings, children, wife, NFL coaches and teammates   * Common Hall of Fame speech messages about character, humility, dedication, determination, character, teamwork, and never giving up   * His incredible resume of accomplishments (NFL all-time scoring leader, record for most career field goals, four Super Bowl titles, NFL's "All 100 team" of best 100 players in the first 100 years of the league)   * Most famously, now-viral jokes directed at Vinatieri's Patriots coach Bill Bellichick (well, the 74-year-old North Carolina coach's 25-year-old girlfriend), Pats quarterback Tom Brady, Colts quarterback Peyton Manning (specifically Manning's massive forehead), and sports talking head Pat McAfee ("who enjoyed holding my balls more than my wife")   In a speech that ran nearly nine minutes over the requested 10-minute limit, the Rapid City native never mentioned his high school alma mater, Rapid City Central.   More shockingly, there was no mention of his time at SDSU (1991-94), despite the presence in Canton, Ohio, of Vinatieri's SDSU head coach Mike Daly and then-defensive coordinator John Stiegelmeier, who took over for Daly in 1997 and spent 26 seasons transforming SDSU from a middling Div. II program to an FCS national champion.   Why did Vinatieri omit his entire high school and college career during the biggest moment of his life, in front of thousands in Canton and millions on live national television?   That is unknown to the Happy Hour host, who sheds light on how Vinatieri's time as a Jackrabbit wasn't completely decorated in glory... and how Vinatieri missed a golden opportunity to send a powerful message by including his low point at SDSU.   FCS Analyst Samuel Akem   The FCS season's opening game week for SDSU and USD is just two weeks away. The Jackrabbits are picked to win the Missouri Valley Football Conference and are rated No. 3 in the STATS Preseason Top 25 FCS poll.   USD is picked fifth in the MVFC and ranked No. 12 in the STATS poll.   The team that knocked both the Jacks and Yotes out of the playoffs is slotted at No. 2 in the nation. That'd be Montana, whose arch rival Montana State received all 57 first place votes as the Bobcats begin a run at back-to-back national championships.   How does former Griz wideout and current FCS podcast host Samuel Akem feel about these rankings, and why does he feel the Jacks should be rated ahead of his alma mater?   Almost more intriguingly, why does Akem not see SDSU quarterback Chase Mason as a Top Five FCS QB at the moment?   Why do the Montana schools and Dakotas schools seem to dominate the FCS year after year, and which teams outside those two states should be considered national title contenders?   Oh, and what is the outlook for the future of the Bobcats, Grizzlies, and a potential move to the FBS like North Dakota State just made?     Zach Borg talks prep football   Two weeks from now will also mark the first game week of high school football season for the 11-man teams in the Sioux Falls metro area.   Is defending 11AAA champion Brandon Valley still the team to beat in the state's largest class? What about the Lincoln squad that returns dazzling quarterback Brody Schafer?    Zach Borg has covered prep pigskin in the Sioux Empire for nearly 15 years and joins the Happy Hour host to handicap the 11AAA field. He'll cover one school per day in the soon-to-be-released "Camp Confidential" series on Sioux Falls Live and Midwest Sports Plus.   It is also Borg's first day as a full-time Midwest Sports Plus sports reporter, a title and position well-earned through his relentless work ethic and a treasure chest of feature stories he compiled this past year for Forum Communications.  

Two weeks from now will also mark the first game week of high school football season for the 11-man teams in the Sioux Falls metro area.   Is defending 11AAA champion Brandon Valley still the team to beat in the state's largest class? What about the Lincoln squad that returns dazzling quarterback Brody Schafer?    Zach Borg has covered prep pigskin in the Sioux Empire for nearly 15 years and joins the Happy Hour host to handicap the 11AAA field. He'll cover one school per day in the soon-to-be-released "Camp Confidential" series on Sioux Falls Live and Midwest Sports Plus.   It is also Borg's first day as a full-time Midwest Sports Plus sports reporter, a title and position well-earned through his relentless work ethic and a treasure chest of feature stories he compiled this past year for Forum Communications.

South Dakota native and SDSU alumnus Adam Vinatieri sure packed a lot into his nearly 19-minute Pro Football Hall of Fame speech on Saturday:   * The common "thank you's" to people who helped get him there— parents, siblings, children, wife, NFL coaches and teammates   * Common Hall of Fame speech messages about character, humility, dedication, determination, character, teamwork, and never giving up   * His incredible resume of accomplishments (NFL all-time scoring leader, record for most career field goals, four Super Bowl titles, NFL's "All 100 team" of best 100 players in the first 100 years of the league)   * Most famously, now-viral jokes directed at Vinatieri's Patriots coach Bill Bellichick (well, the 74-year-old North Carolina coach's 25-year-old girlfriend), Pats quarterback Tom Brady, Colts quarterback Peyton Manning (specifically Manning's massive forehead), and sports talking head Pat McAfee ("who enjoyed holding my balls more than my wife")   In a speech that ran nearly nine minutes over the requested 10-minute limit, the Rapid City native never mentioned his high school alma mater, Rapid City Central.   More shockingly, there was no mention of his time at SDSU (1991-94), despite the presence in Canton, Ohio, of Vinatieri's SDSU head coach Mike Daly and then-defensive coordinator John Stiegelmeier, who took over for Daly in 1997 and spent 26 seasons transforming SDSU from a middling Div. II program to an FCS national champion.   Why did Vinatieri omit his entire high school and college career during the biggest moment of his life, in front of thousands in Canton and millions on live national television?   That is unknown to the Happy Hour host, who sheds light on how Vinatieri's time as a Jackrabbit wasn't completely decorated in glory... and how Vinatieri missed a golden opportunity to send a powerful message by including his low point at SDSU.

The FCS season's opening game week for SDSU and USD is just two weeks away. The Jackrabbits are picked to win the Missouri Valley Football Conference and are rated No. 3 in the STATS Preseason Top 25 FCS poll.   USD is picked fifth in the MVFC and ranked No. 12 in the STATS poll.   The team that knocked both the Jacks and Yotes out of the playoffs is slotted at No. 2 in the nation. That'd be Montana, whose arch rival Montana State received all 57 first place votes as the Bobcats begin a run at back-to-back national championships.   How does former Griz wideout and current FCS podcast host Samuel Akem feel about these rankings, and why does he feel the Jacks should be rated ahead of his alma mater?   Almost more intriguingly, why does Akem not see SDSU quarterback Chase Mason as a Top Five FCS QB at the moment?   Why do the Montana schools and Dakotas schools seem to dominate the FCS year after year, and which teams outside those two states should be considered national title contenders?   Oh, and what is the outlook for the future of the Bobcats, Grizzlies, and a potential move to the FBS like North Dakota State just made?

Every week, "South Dakota Sports Lounge" displays some of the most captivating and entertaining conversations from daily sports talk shows in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Fargo.   Here are this week's segments:   Happy Hour with John Gaskins (Sioux Falls): The hosts of the budding Jackrabbit Illustrated podcasts dive into the rivalry void left by North Dakota State's exit to the FBS and how much bigger (if at all) the annual battle with in-state rival South Dakota will become while there is no Dakota Marker at stake.    Plus, the fan/alumni hosts explain the impact NIL and the transfer portal have on their enjoyment and investment in major sports like football and men's basketball, where some of the best SDSU players leave for big bucks at higher-profile schools. Plus, what are their predictions for Chase Mason and the '26 Jacks, who are picked to win the MVFC and contend for a national title?   Hot Mic with Dom Izzo (Fargo): NDSU basketball star Avery Koenen, the Summit League Player of the Year, discusses her engagement to Bison quarterback Trey Drake. They first became aware of each other during a Hot Mic appearance. They also had a former SDSU basketball player (Ellie Colbeck) as the engagement photographer.   The Nate Brown Show (Rapid City): Post 22 head coach Rich Downs discusses the state championship American Legion season and playing in the upcoming regional tournament in Mandan, ND.   Zach Borg feature on Sioux Falls Canaries veteran Mike Hart, who has been with the Birds for almost a decade and carved a reputation as a Pete Rose-style player and leader for a team that has become a consistent winner. Why did he decide to come back in 2026 after contemplating retirement last season?      

How do the "JI guys" feel about bitter football rival North Dakota State no longer being in the FCS and on SDSU's schedule? And how close can "the school down south" in Vermillion come to matching the intensity of the "Dakota Marker Game" and game week?   How have NIL and the transfer portal — and therefore, more often than not, the departure of some of SDSU's best football and men's basketball players to bigger schools after one or two stellar seasons — skewed their outlook and enjoyment as fans?   And, yes, how strong of a national championship contender will the 2026 Jackrabbits be? 

Think back 20 years, and just look at how much South Dakota State football and its fan base have grown.   From Coughlin-Alumni Stadium to the modern marvel of "The Dana." From coaching offices in trailers and outdoor winter practices on the windswept tundra to the Dykhouse (now Stiegelmeier Family Center) and the SJAC indoor palace.   From FCS infancy and the janky Great West Conference to consistent MVFC national championship contention.    Think back 10 years, to the year Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium opened and the Jackrabbits notched their first (share of an) MVFC Championship.   Since then, they've secured two national championships, produced numerous All-Americans and NFL players, and drawn bigger and bigger crowds—including sellouts exceeding 19,000—on fall gamedays.   That, plus a massive, growing website and podcast operation that has become an online gathering point for fans who can't get enough content. There is also a JI tailgate party at home games and national championship contests, serving as a literal gathering point impossible to miss if you're in Brookings (or Frisco, and maybe this year in Nashville) on a football gameday.   The Jacks and the unaffiliated Jackrabbit Illustrated brand have both come a long, long way together, through the hard times and the good.   Mostly good.   Today, the  "JI" website has established itself as the top source for SDSU recruiting information. The weekly podcast—like the website, launched by SDSU alumnus Matt Tollefson—grew so popular that three more shows were added, with one focusing specifically on wrestling.   How did "JI" and SDSU football fandom come so far? Why do the podcasts and their hosts seem to resonate so deeply with their listeners and viewers?   Tollefson and fellow hosts Chad Meirose and Brendan Luedtke joined Happy Hour on Thursday to walk through the parallel universes of Jackrabbit fandom and Jackrabbit Illustrated's popularity and reach.   Right away and for 80 minutes, you'll grasp exactly what makes them tick—three friends talking about their favorite team, organically and authentically.

Think back 20 years, and just look at how much South Dakota State football and its fan base have grown.   From Coughlin-Alumni Stadium to the modern marvel of "The Dana." From coaching offices in trailers and outdoor winter practices on the windswept tundra to the Dykhouse (now Stiegelmeier Family Center) and the SJAC indoor palace.   From FCS infancy and the janky Great West Conference to consistent MVFC national championship contention.    Think back 10 years, to the year Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium opened and the Jackrabbits notched their first (share of an) MVFC Championship.   Since then, they've secured two national championships, produced numerous All-Americans and NFL players, and drawn bigger and bigger crowds—including sellouts exceeding 19,000—on fall gamedays.   That, plus a massive, growing website and podcast operation that has become an online gathering point for fans who can't get enough content. There is also a JI tailgate party at home games and national championship contests, serving as a literal gathering point impossible to miss if you're in Brookings (or Frisco, and maybe this year in Nashville) on a football gameday.   The Jacks and the unaffiliated Jackrabbit Illustrated brand have both come a long, long way together, through the hard times and the good.   Mostly good.   Today, the  "JI" website has established itself as the top source for SDSU recruiting information. The weekly podcast—like the website, launched by SDSU alumnus Matt Tollefson—grew so popular that three more shows were added, with one focusing specifically on wrestling.   How did "JI" and SDSU football fandom come so far? Why do the podcasts and their hosts seem to resonate so deeply with their listeners and viewers?   Tollefson and fellow hosts Chad Meirose and Brendan Luedtke joined Happy Hour on Thursday to walk through the parallel universes of Jackrabbit fandom and Jackrabbit Illustrated's popularity and reach.   Right away and for 80 minutes, you'll grasp exactly what makes them tick—three friends talking about their favorite team, organically and authentically.   But can they always be fully authentic with their opinions? How have their raw feelings and emotions come back to bite them?    How do they feel about bitter football rival North Dakota State no longer being in the FCS and on SDSU's schedule? And how close can "the school down south" in Vermillion come to matching the intensity of the "Dakota Marker Game" and game week?   How have NIL and the transfer portal — and therefore, more often than not, the departure of some of SDSU's best football and men's basketball players to bigger schools after one or two stellar seasons — skewed their outlook and enjoyment as fans?   And, yes, how strong of a national championship contender will the 2026 Jackrabbits be? 

Imagine having a career where you are the boss of five different organizations for 45 years, then all of a sudden are no longer the boss.   Since 1978, shortly after graduating from Dakota State, all Kim Nelson knew in coaching high school football was being the head coach, from Milbank to Rapid City Central to Sioux Falls Washington to Edian (MN) to Sioux Falls Roosevelt.   Then, the all-time South Dakota wins leader stepped down as Roosevelt's head coach in 2023 and called it a retirement from head coaching.    But Nelson could not and still cannot get coaching out of his system. He joined the University of Sioux Falls staff briefly in the spring of 2024 before deciding the college game just wasn't his jam.    So, he pivoted back to Roosevelt to coach the freshman team that fall. After one season, he accepted an offer from Sioux Falls Christian coach Jared Smith — a former assistant under Nelson at RHS — to become the Chargers' offensive coordinator.   It went well. Like, really well. SFC was an offensive juggernaut, averaging over 40 points a game and coming from 17 points behind to beat Lennox for the South Dakota 11A state championship.   So, what was that experience like, particularly the part in the second half of the title game when Smith — who had ran the offense prior to Nelson's arrrival — decided to take over the play-calling?    Remember, Nelson had been a boss who called his own offensive plays for 45 of 46 seasons prior.   In his casual yet candid manner, Nelson — who joined Happy Hour last summer to walk through his life and career in football — takes us through his SFC journey so far, less than a week before the Chargers' first practice ahead of their 2026 title defense campaign.     Guest: Sioux Falls Live sportswriter Trent Singer Can the games just begin?   Early August days always leave football fans anxiously starving for the actual season to kick off, especially with the abundant coverage of teams' camp practices.   Fans of football and every collegiate sport are pining to watch actual competition, if only to distract them from the barrage of offseason news and media discussions about NIL, the transfer portal, and the NCAA's ongoing melodrama regarding the future of eligibility.   The "5 for 5" rule became the new model of eligibility for "student-athletes" in June, but lawsuits have already been filed and won against it.    How does it affect the local colleges? Sioux Falls Live sportswriter Trent Singer drilled into the depths of the matter in a three-part series and shared some of the most pertinent information during his Wednesday appearance on Happy Hour from Gibs Sports Bar in Sioux Falls.   Also discussed: The Sioux Falls Canaries are hoping "money talks" during Thursday night's "AC/DC" promotion at The Birdcage.   The team is using its 6:35 p.m. game against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks as a fundraising event for pitcher Ryan Richardson, who has been unable to play this season as he battles cancer.   The 36-year-old, a trusted reliever (4-2, 2.97 ERA) on the 2025 squad that reached its league championship series, learned of his diagnosis in May during the routine preseason physical exam the American Association requires all players to take.    Richardson has been living and receiving treatment in Sioux Falls throughout the season, but affording that health care has been a struggle since the Canaries cannot pay him while he is not on the team roster.   So, how did the Canaries — specifically, their general manager and a couple long-time season ticket holders — make sure Richardson would not fight his financial battle alone?   The Happy Hour host has the details. So does this article.   And, oh, by the way... the Canaries on Wednesday confirmed Richardson has been cleared to play and is rejoining the squad soon.

Imagine having a career where you are the boss of five different organizations for 45 years, then all of a sudden are no longer the boss.   Since 1978, shortly after graduating from Dakota State, all Kim Nelson knew in coaching high school football was being the head coach, from Milbank to Rapid City Central to Sioux Falls Washington to Edian (MN) to Sioux Falls Roosevelt.   Then, the all-time South Dakota wins leader stepped down as Roosevelt's head coach in 2023 and called it a retirement from head coaching.    But Nelson could not and still cannot get coaching out of his system. He joined the University of Sioux Falls staff briefly in the spring of 2024 before deciding the college game just wasn't his jam.    So, he pivoted back to Roosevelt to coach the freshman team that fall. After one season, he accepted an offer from Sioux Falls Christian coach Jared Smith — a former assistant under Nelson at RHS — to become the Chargers' offensive coordinator.   It went well. Like, really well. SFC was an offensive juggernaut, averaging over 40 points a game and coming from 17 points behind to beat Lennox for the South Dakota 11A state championship.   So, what was that experience like, particularly the part in the second half of the title game when Smith — who had ran the offense prior to Nelson's arrrival — decided to take over the play-calling?    Remember, Nelson had been a boss who called his own offensive plays for 45 of 46 seasons prior.   In his casual yet candid manner, Nelson — who joined Happy Hour last summer to walk through his life and career in football — takes us through his SFC journey so far, less than a week before the Chargers' first practice ahead of their 2026 title defense campaign.