Introduction
After visiting with every coaching staff in the Northern Sun and getting feedback regarding potential starters, newcomers, and returning players, I've made the following predictions and teams previews for all 16 squads in the league.

USF Cougars
2014 Record: 11-1
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 9/8

Offense: The Cougars have a lot to be excited about 2015 offensively. While USF loses a very solid back in Nephi Garcia, they will return 4 offensive lineman, a quarterback who was NSIC Offensive POY, and 3 starting wideouts and tight end from a squad that averaged 42 ppg.

Quarterback Luke Papilion (JR, 6-5, 200 lbs) is the straw that stirs the drink for the Cougars offense, being very capable in the short passing game and a game-breaking threat in the zone read running game. Papilion threw for an average of 232 ypg, while rushing for another 67 ypg. USF returns Brady Rose (JR, 6-0, 205 lbs), Josh Angulo (JR, 6-0, 200 lbs), and Garrett Shutt (6-3, 193 lbs) at receiver and those players caught 62-61-47 balls respectively.

The challenge for the USF offense will be with replacing their workhorse Garcia in the running game. At first glance it would seem that Max Mickey (SO, 5-9, 175 lbs) will be the first option. Mickey ran for 403 yards last year in limited action, with 4 scores. Mickey doesn’t quite have the wiggle that Garcia had between the tackles, but he does possess breakaway speed when he hits open space. Expect NWMSU transfer Justin Fulks (JR, 5-10, 185 lbs) to also get carries given his speed, with converted DB Jason Towns (SO, 5-6, 150 lbs) getting a few touches each game as well. Towns played the role of Winona State’s Paul Preston on the scout team last year for the Cougars and they found him to be very hard to track down. As a result, Towns now looks to be a threat on the offensive side of the ball. It will likely take a few weeks to see how the Cougars running game takes shape.

An interesting side-note with the Cougars is that they return 2013 all-league lineman Derek Delaney who missed the 2014 campaign due to injury.

Defense: The Coo defense returns 8 players from a unit that gave up 17 ppg in 2014. USF didn’t lose any all-league players, but returns both cornerbacks who received legitimate All American acclaim. Solomon St. Pierre led the conference with 10 interceptions, while fellow corner John Tidwell netted 4 more. David Clark (SR, 6-1, 200 lbs) played about half the time at Safety and offers big hits in the back half of the defense. With these type players returning for USF, they give the Cougars a chance to get scores from their defense/special teams. The 3 together they scored 7 times in 2014.

The front 7 of the USF defense returns all 3 linebackers and the d-line brings back strong performers in Grant Schindler (SR, 6-2, 265 lbs) and Evan Gentry (JR, 6-3, 256 lbs). With 2 openings in the front 4, the Coo will be looking for additional depth at tackle, along with a speed rusher on the end. This is probably the single biggest spot-fill with USF, as they feel very good about their defense as a whole. Junior College transfer Michael Spivey was expecting to be a potentially dynamic addition at linebacker, but he did not stay around for summer workouts and has since washed out of the program.

Outlook: The Cougars were just about even across the board with league leaders Mankato and Duluth last season. In 2015 USF returns more of their difference-makers and identity than either of those squads. Another thing in the Cougars favor is they host both UMD and MSU at “The Bob” in Sioux Falls, weeks 3 and 10 respectively. Taking a look at the hunger the Coo displayed in their bowl game win over Central Oklahoma, I have USF going unbeaten in the regular season.

Prediction: 11-0






(Photo: MSU website)

Minnesota State-Mankato Mavericks
2014 Record: 14-1
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 6/7

Offense: The Mavericks are a hard team to get a good read on going into the 2015 season. Recently MSU had an offensive line that’d been together in a cohesive way for year after year, and running backs that were around during that same timeframe. That group ground out yards and opponents all the way to last year’s National Championship game. However, 4 of those 5 starting offensive lineman are gone along with longtime running back Andy Pfieffer. This is probably the single biggest question mark and concern for Mavs fans going forward.

MSU returns Connor Thomas (SR, 5-11, 205 lbs), a hard runner who gets the tough yards. Thomas ran for 1363 yards last season and 13 scores and is the all-time leading rusher in school history. Chad Zastrow (SR, 5-11, 205) will help relieve Thomas in the running game, but don’t be surprised if freshman Virgil Hammond comes on during the course of the season.

In the passing game the Mavs return both of their quarterbacks, Ricky Lloyd (JR, 6-3, 205) and Nick Pieruccini (SO, 6-1, 210 lbs). Lloyd is more the traditional drop back passer (with a big arm) while Pieruccini is a zone-read type running quarterback. They split time much of last year, with their strengths being slightly different. My hunch is Lloyd will be seen more as the #1 guy but suspect Pieruccini will continue to come into games for series to give a little bit different look to the defense.

At wideout the Mavs lose a pair of starters and their deep threats down the field. Kyle Riggott (SR, 5-10, 190 lbs) returns in his do-everything role as a slot player who often takes fly-sweeps around the end. With Riggott being tagged as the #1 reciever, he will need to take a greater role and responsibility with this years squad. The other wideout spot is a little harder to get a handle on. Former UND-transfer Jameer Jackson (JR, 6-3, 225 lbs) came to the Mavs last season but suddenly was not academically eligible last season before the start of the year. Jackson was a star as a freshman at UND and is a big athletic threat that would be a tough matchup in the NSIC for defensive backs. That said, a nagging shoulder injury kept him out of parts of spring practices. During the summer there seemed to be moments of uncertainty as to if he was going to be back with the Mavs come fall practices. If Jackson is back with MSU, and dialed in, he could be a real difference-maker for the squad.

The offensive line in 2015 will see the return of Hershel Prater (SR, 6-6, 305 lbs) and he will be flanked by a collection of 300 pounders that is a mix of transfers and younger players. By all indications this will be a very large and talented group, but one that will need to find cohesion and chemistry very quickly with the opener against UMD looming 3 weeks away. I don’t think it’s realistic to expect the Mavs offense to hit the ground running at full speed. Outside of the opener, MSU will have a long time to gel before seeing the other league-favorite USF in week 10.

Another thing to consider if the departure of OC Jason Eck, who moved on to Montana State University. In his place steps Joe Beschorner, who held the same position with Simpson College in Division 3. With Todd Hoffner having play-calling experience and good knowledge of his group, expect the head coach to be actively involved with the offense.

Defense: Last season the Mavs defense was viewed by many as the secret to their extended run in the postseason. MSU held each playoff opponent to a low point total, including giving up just 13 points in the title game. Back from that unit are All-American stars Josh Gordon (SR-DL, 6-2, 250 lbs) and Tyler Henderson (SR-LB, 6-3, 225 lbs). These 2 anchor a front 7 that returns former starters who were injured last season, defensive tackles Kaleb Wendricks (6-1, 340 lbs) and Jeff Raymond (SR, 6-1, 290 lbs). The Mavs will also be adding some D1 transfers who could make an immediate impact such as Ruben Ibarra (SR-LB, 6-1, 234 lbs) from Purdue.

The secondary will be solid and experienced as well with former cornerback Justin Otto (SR, 6-2, 185 lbs) moving to safety with Rumeal Harris (SR, 5-10, 175 lbs), Patrick Schmidt (SR, 6-0, 190 lbs), and Jared Gillespie (JR, 5-10, 175 lbs) seemingly filling out the back half of the defense.

Outlook: MSU should be just as good defensively as they were a season ago, with the chance to be better. However, they are basically replacing their entire offensive line and that group was thought of by many as the MVP of the league. In addition the Mavs run the risk of not being explosive enough downfield, compared to the success they had in 2014. I think the Mavs will be very strong come playoff time but might have some growing pains during the year.

Prediction: 10-1



(Photo: Duluth Times)

UMD Bulldogs
2014 Record: 13-1
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 7/7

Offense: The Bulldogs continue to be the highest scoring team in the North, averaging 40 ppg last season. Quarterback Drew Bauer (JR, 6-2, 210) is one of the top players in the league and continues to evolve as a passer. Last season Bauer averaged 136 ypg through the air, with 26 scores and 7 interceptions. Often times he was a bigger threat as a rusher, averaging 70 ypg and scoring 13 times with his feet. Simply put, Bauer is a gamer and came up big for the Bulldogs when he was really needed in a come from behind win against Augustana and also in the playoffs against NWMSU and OBU.

Returning for this year’s UMD squad will be maybe the conference most dependable rusher, Logan Lauters (5-9, 210 lbs). The Senior ran for 1531 yards and 14 scores. With the graduation of Austin Sikorski, expect that do-everything Beau Bofferding (JR, 5-9, 180) will help share some of the workload with Lauters, in addition to being involved in the passing game as well. Last season Bofferding netted 630 yards total, while scoring 13 touchdowns. Freshman Jamiah Newell (yes, the brother of former Augie star Dajon Newell) might very well get brought along as well.

At wideout the Bulldogs are experiencing the loss of their top 2 pass-catchers. Expect for talented Sophomore Nate Ricci (6-0, 175 lbs) to get an increased workload. Last season Ricci had 17 catches for 216 yards and 4 scores. Outside of Bofferding catching 41 balls last season, the Bulldogs aren’t returning a lot of experience at wideout.

Defense: The Bulldogs were once again one of the better groups in the NSIC, tops easily in the North Division. UMD gave up 17 ppg in league, and 20 ppg overall (including the playoffs). UMD led the conference at stopping the run, but was susceptible to giving up big yards in the passing game. This is what led Duluth to give up 30 points to Northern, 35 to Mary, 45 to OBU, and then 44 to Mankato. These type of point totals have to be a bit alarming for fans of the Duluth championship teams who didn’t allow those higher numbers.

Looking at the 2015 Bulldogs, they return 7 defensive starters. The leaders on this side of the ball are nose tackle Jonathan Harden (SR, 5-10, 295 lbs), defensive backs Darion Fletcher (SR, 5-9, 195 lbs) and David Boegel (SR, 6-0, 200 lbs), along with linebacker Beau Bates (JR, 6-0, 225 lbs). All 4 players were all-league last season and provide UMD with good leadership and experience in the back half. Oddly, Duluth lost 3 younger starters in the offseason for various reasons (Jake Lambrecht-DL, Hunter Malberg-DB, and Nathan Zibolski-LB), which will sting the program a bit.

Outlook: UMD lacks experience at the wideout spot but their success and approach is not predicated on the passing game. Duluth will still be able to pound the ball very effectively with 3 returning offensive lineman and great playmakers in the running game. Overall the UMD offense will likely not have quite the same firepower in the passing game that they had a year ago in some of their comeback wins. The defense should be solid but some key losses will likely keep them from being tops in the league. With a rather easy schedule last year I had UMD going unbeaten in the regular season, and they did. This year with both Mankato and USF on the schedule, and both roads games, I have the Bulldogs not pulling out those two contests. Due to strength of schedule and an additional 7th playoff spot this year, I think UMD still makes the postseason.

Prediction: 9-2




(Photo: Argus Leader)

Augustana Vikings
2014 Record: 6-5
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 7/6

Offense: Trey Heid (JR, 6-2, 192 lbs) emerged as the Vikings star quarterback in 2014 after a rocky freshman campaign. Heid threw for 256 ypg, had 25 scores through the air, 3 on the ground, with only 5 interceptions. For the most part Heid really had a breakout year, with the exception of rough patches against USF and Concordia.

Augie also returns a top offensive lineman in Sam Lee (JR, 6-5, 296 lbs) who missed 2014 due to injury. With other returning starters the Vikings should be improved upfront to pave the way for their battering ram CJ Ham (SR, 6-1, 238 lbs). Ham looks like a linebacker who runs with the football. He netted 816 yards last season along with 7 scores, while splitting the carries with Dajon Newell who’s since graduated. It’s a good bet Ham will shoot for a 1,000 yard season, but will also get halfback help from a host of players including local stars the Greenway brothers (both seniors) and Caden Quintanilla (FR, 5-8, 162). Jackie Davis (SO, 5-7, 164 lbs) might be the leader to steal carries amongst these smaller backs.

At wideout the Vikings lost both of their starters from last year, but due to injury both Matt Heller (JR, 6-0, 176 lbs) and Charlie Hayes (JR-5-9, 178 lbs) saw significant time and combined for over 1200 yards and 15 scores.

Defense: This is where things get a little sticky for the Vikings. For the past few years they were a very linebacker strong group with names like Ben Skelly, Nate Kirby, and Brandon Mohr. Now only Mohr (106 tackles last season) remains and he will be the leader of the defense. Augie also loses star d-lineman Jake Lee (who is now on the coaching staff). All told the Vikings return only a few of their front 7, but will be experienced in the secondary (which was young last season). Expect players in the back half of the defense such as Chad Curry (SR, 6-4, 200 lbs), Jordan Johnson (SO, 6-0, 175 lbs), and Trevor Naasz (SO, 6-0, 177 lbs) to take a great role in leadership with the 2015 Vikings.

The Vikings defense was one of the better units in 2014 with the exception of the shootout they found themselves in Wayne, winning 52-48. It’s hard to see Augie staying at their strong 18 ppg mark again this year with many new parts in the front 7, while playing in the same division with so many explosive offenses.

Outlook: I said it multiple times last year that I felt Augustana was better than their record indicated and they were the only middle of the pack team that could stand toe-to-toe with the top squads in the conference. Unfortunately they didn’t always take care of business in games they were the favorite. Augie could’ve very easily been 8-3 last season, but couldn’t close out games. This is what makes the Vikings a hard team to call. I think they will take a step forward offensively, but a half step back on the other side of the ball.

Prediction: 7-4



St. Cloud State Huskies
2014 Record: 6-5
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 8/5

Offense: SCSU brings back most of their offensive line and a quarterback who now has a year of experience under his belt. Last season the Huskies struggled offensively to get the passing game going for the first half of the season, but probably had the best good depth at running back in the league. Ledell White (SR-RB, 5-8, 210 lbs) led the team in rushing with 757 yards and 6 scores, but Kenneth Walker (JR-RB, 6-0, 185 lbs) added another 431 yards and 4 touchdowns. Both missed some time last year and were very capably backed up by freshman running backs Jaden Huff and Donte Starlin-Merriam.

Nate Meyer (JR-QB, 6-1, 210 lbs) had a hard time getting the passing game going last year, but was a different player in the back half of the season. Meyer can make some plays with his feet (he isn’t a running quarterback really), but ideally he’s best if he’s throwing and then mixing in runs occasionally. Last season he threw 16 touchdowns, picked off 11 times.

The challenge the Huskies have is lack depth at wideout to the point they felt compelled to get their best athletes on the field, forcing the move of athletic backup quarterback Jameson Parsons (JR, 6-2, 200 lbs) to the receiver spot. Parsons having a strong basketball background, should be able to become a tough cover in the SCSU offense. The development of capable pass-catchers will be imperative if the Huskies are going to get back to the form of a few years ago when they were a playoff-caliber squad.

Defense: In 2014 the SCSU defense gave up 30 ppg. This isn’t the type of number that they’ll need to be at if they’re going to be battling UMD for the top spot in the North. The unfortunate thing is that the Huskies only return 5 starters, and few of them are in the front 7. With that setup, it’s going to be difficult for SCSU to vastly improve on their 30 ppg allowance last season.

Outlook: Initially I had figured that after a year of SCSU rebuilding that they’d be ready to hit the ground running in 2015, also with the benefit of not having to play Mankato and USF this season. The SCSU offense should be better prepared for success as signal-caller Nate Meyer will be more comfortable this time around. However, having only 7 seniors and the lack of experience on defense, I’m not sure I see them jumping back into the playoff conversation.

Prediction: 7-4



(Photo: Winona Daily News)

Winona State Warriors
2014 Record: 4-7
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 9/6

Offense: The Warriors return just about all of their playmakers from last season, so at quick glance they should be ready to hit the ground running in 2015. WSU started off a year ago as one of the most explosive teams in the league but then faded with key injuries to their offensive line, quarterback (who played with a cast on his non-throwing hand), and starting running back. This season the Warriors should be better off upfront at the point of attack but quarterback Jack Nelson will need to improve on his 52% completion rate.

Josh Mikes (59 catches for 1025 yards, 13 touchdowns) is the Randy Moss of the Northern Sun. He’s got the potential to put up monster numbers, but will disappear at times as well. Mikes is a bigger wideout who can win 50/50 balls that are thrown his way, but he also runs well. The Warriors are returning all of their receivers, so they should be ready-made for a big year through the air.

Paul Preston (715 yards, 4 touchdowns) will be getting the carries in the running game, but will be helped with short line runners such as Direll Clark and Jordan Kos. Preston having a smaller frame (5-4, 161 lbs) is more of a quick back that has a great wiggle, but might not be their best option when at the goal line. With a healthy Direll Clark, I’m expecting him to help the Warriors power between the tackles when needed.

Defense: On the defensive side of the ball the Warriors will need to show marked improvement to improve on their 4-7 season. Against the better teams in the league the Warriors struggled to keep the opposition out of the end zone. In 2014 WSU gave up 29ppg on average, but they were a young defense that is returning some key playmakers. Collin Corcoran (LB) is a leader on the defensive side of the ball and is a two-time all-conference player.

The secondary was very young, but after gaining experience guys like Andrew Spencer and Ryan Cain should be ready to shore up the back half for the Warriors in 2015.

Outlook: Winona State is the hardest team of all 16 in the conference to predict for 2015. WSU has been sitting in a position just after Mankato and Duluth in this league during recent times. Suddenly the Warriors have fallen on 6-5 and 4-7 seasons. The Warriors 2014 season broke a streak of 17 straight winning seasons for Coach Tom Sawyer, who will now be entering his 20th season at the controls. Last season I felt good about a bounce back year for WSU, and they fell flat after starting 3-0. That all said, I tend to think that a healthy Winona squad should be able to get off to a good start and with players like Nelson and Mikes will be over .500. I feel the key for WSU will be how do they handle some of the tough games in the middle of their season and how do they respond to adversity if it arises. This squad has the potential to be a 8-3 type of team. I’m not sure I see quite that big a jump, but I see them certainly being better than a year ago.

Prediction: 7-4


Concordia Golden Bears
2014 Record: 5-6
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 8/6

Offense: The Golden Bears won 5 games last year, but it wasn’t because they had an explosive offense. Last season CSP had a 1,000 rusher in Tre Spears, but they were 15th in the league in passing yards and 13th in efficiency.

Starting quarterback Corey Cole started only 2 games before going down for the season with a foot injury. Cole offered CSP a dual threat QB who surprised Duluth in their 2014 opener by running for 177 yards. A converted wideout, Cole offers the offense the type of threat that has been lacking in the last few years. The good thing for the Golden Bears is they are returning nearly their entire offensive line, but not returning their top receivers from last season.

At the running back spot expect Alex Carr (JR, 5-9, 187 lbs) who had an ACL injury to press Darious Chapes (JR, 5-11, 205 lbs) for carries. Chapes is more of a Robert Smith-type runner (former Vikings RB), while Carr is a transfer from UNI that has the potential to be a very dynamic back.

While I’m not generally speaking to the kicking game of each squad, it’s quite apparent that CSP will miss the big boot of Tom Obarski, the league’s best kicker the past few seasons.

Defense: With previous DC Todd Strop and the Golden Bears parting company during the offseason, the Concordia defense will be in the hands of new coordinator Ted Egger who held that same position Adams State of the RMAC. Egger’s defenses were among league leaders in takeaways and sacks during his time there.

Last year the Golden Bears were a good middle-of-the-pack defenses, allowing 26 ppg. Leading the Concordia defense will be linebacker Jordan Halverson (SR, 6-1, 235 lbs) a 2-time all-league player who’s very physical. He led the team with 108 tackles last season. Not returning is the NSIC Defensive Newcomer of the Year Dion Roche, who led the team in sacks (10.5), as he’s academically ineligible.

Outlook: If Corey Cole can return to being a dual-threat playmaker for the Golden Bears, coupled with a good defense, this team could be very good at the point of attack and possibly improve on their 5-6 showing in 2014. Without established weapons in the passing game, I’m having a hard time putting CSP any better than 6 wins. If their offense is efficient in 2015, they have a chance to be better.

Prediction: 6-5




(Photo: Argus Leader)

Wayne State Wildcats
2014 Record: 5-6
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 7/5

Offense: The Wildcats have a lot to be excited about on the offensive side. They return Junior signal-caller Zach Osborn, who led the NSIC in total yards (3568) by a quarterback. Osborn is mostly a thrower, but he did run for 300 yards as well. His main targets from last year have graduated, so he will be relying on young players like Sophomore Marcel Dunson to step up and help fill the void at receiver.

The offensive line all returns for WSC and should be able to pave the way for Senior Ryan Ludlow (RB) and his 6-1, 215 frame. Ludlow ran for 869 yards last year and 9 scores in the 9 games he played. Ludlow was not afraid to barrel defenders as needed and should be set for a big season with his offensive line all coming back.

Defense: The Wildcats return only 5 starters from a unit that gave up 36 ppg. Without a lot of experience returning, this WSC team might very well find itself in some fire-fights this season. Defensive lineman Shawn Barker (SR, 5-11, 295 lbs) will lead the group in 2015 as they will look to continue to be one of the top pass rushing teams in the conference.

Outlook: The Wildcats will have new coordinators on both sides of the ball. Logan Masters was a star wideout for WSC and will now take over the play-calling duties. Scott McLaughlin is the son of head coach Dan McLaughlin, and he will take over the defensive calls as former DC Mike Aldrich migrated to SMSU in the offseason.

This team has the feel of being very good offensively, but might struggle a bit defensively. The coaches poll has the Wildcats finishing tied for 13th in the conference. I don’t quite see them being down that far given what the firepower they are returning.

Prediction: 6-5




(Photo: MSUM website)

Minnesota State-Moorhead Dragons
2014 Record: 4-7
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 10/10

Offense: The Dragon offense was amongst the best in the league in 2014, averaging a league best 517 ypg, while scoring 36 ppg. Jake Hodge (SR, 6-0, 195 lbs) is the best quarterback that not a lot of people know about in the league. He passed for 220 ypg and 16 scores, while also averaging 80 ypg on the ground and another 6 scores. Hodge was a bit dinged up last year and missed a few games and was relieved by the slightly more athletic dynamic Demetrius Carr (SO, 6-2, 222 lbs). However, Carr was not as efficient as Hodge at the quarterback spot but could still challenge him this fall for the job.

The Dragons are not as big physically as some of the top teams in the league at the point of attack, but they do return 4 starters on the O-line and will be joined with a lot of established skill players as well. Standout seniors Adam Jiskra (74 catches, 1039 yards, 8 scores) and running back Zayne Medhaug (1483 yards from scrimmage with 17 touchdowns) will power this MSUM attack.

Defense: This has been pressure point for the Dragons. Last season (and in past years) MSUM struggled to stop people, allowed an average of 505 yards allowed per game. Worse yet, they allowed 45 ppg, 2nd worst in the conference.

What they do have going for themselves is returning 10 starters. Leading this group will be defensive back Abe Roehrich (SO, 5-11, 200) who led the team with 91 tackles and also captain Aaron Bohl (JR-LB, 6-0, 220 lbs). Yes, Aaron is the son of former NDSU Head Coach (and current Wyoming HC) Craig Bohl.

Outlook: Given all the returning starters and firepower from this group offensively, there’s no reason to see any letdown coming. The defense just flat out needs to get better. They lost a few games last year after having a lead for much of the game and having their defense collapse in the 4th quarter. Taking a look at the schedule the Dragons don’t have either Mankato or USF on the schedule this year and this should be in their favor. Like last season, I have the Dragons a little higher than the Coaches Poll.

Prediction: 6-5



Northern State Wolves
2014 Record: 8-3
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 8/7

Offense: NSU is a hard team to figure. They return 8 starters, but they lose their top receiver Jared Hannigan and more importantly 4-year starter at quarterback, Jared Jacobson. JJ’s loss has to be significant as he’s near the top of the Northern record books in several categories given his ability to both run and pass. He was the leader of the 8-win squad from 2014 and it will be very hard to replace what he brought to the Wolves.

Christian McAlvain (JR, 6-0, 190 lbs) appears to be the leader in the clubhouse to replace Jacobson at the quarterback spot. McAlvain is a Santa Rosa JC transfer who has decent wheels and is a capable thrower. That said, he’s yet to take a snap for the Wolves and there will likely be a learning curve for him in this league. Kyle Lavand (FR, 6-0, 200) has a little better working knowledge of the offense and will also be vying for the starting quarterback spot this fall.

The Wolves return the top tight end in the league in Conner Doherty (JR, 6-3, 250 lbs) who led the squad in receptions (51) and yards (718), while scoring 6 times. Running back Nicholas Truen (SO, 5-11, 210) also returns. He went for 877 yards and scored a total of 9 times.

Defense: Despite having an 8-3 record last season, the Wolves defense struggled, allowing 33 ppg. The bright side is Northern returns 7 starters including all league player Joe Parsley (SO, 6-1, 195 lbs) and leading tackler LB Devin Olson (SR, 5-10, 220 lbs). This group will need to play better than their numbers last year if NSU is looking to take that next step forward.

Outlook: Last season I thought Northern State was pretty fortunate at times on their way to an 8-3 finish. They were outgained on the season and lost by big numbers against the better teams on their schedule. Having Mankato and USF on tap this season during the first 4 weeks, along with the graduation of do-everything quarterback Jared Jacobson, I think the Wolves take a step back from their breakout season of a year ago.

Prediction: 5-6


Bemidji State Beavers
2014 Record: 3-8
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 9/6

Offense: BSU struggled a bit last year, averaging 24 ppg. The Beavers went back and forth between 2 quarterbacks, Jordan Hein (SO, 6-1, 210 lbs) and Ryan Shields (JR, 6-1, 181 lbs). Hein was the original starter and more of a running player who can pass, while the team netted good passing yards and a little more explosion with Shields at the controls as the season moved along. It would seem that the Beavers are still seeking their offensive identity and landing on a starter will probably determine if they will be more of a passing squad. My hunch is that Shields will get the nod, but Hein might be ready to take the controls after 1 season with BSU after transferring from UNI.

4 out of 5 offensive lineman return for the Beavers, along with all their wideouts and tight end. Last season Blake Holder (SO, 6-2, 198, NIU transfer) really stepped up at receiver by scoring 6 times and amassing 764 yards on 42 grabs. Holder is a big play threat that should be a top pass-catcher in the league for years to come. At running back Tahi Nomane (SO, 5-10, 200) should get the first crack at carries, with Michael Washington (FR, 5-8, 179) vying for touches as well. Nomane ran for 273 yards last season along with 5 touchdowns.

An interesting side note is that former Mary gunslinger Craig Bagnell has been promoted to the OC spot. If Bagnell’s college career is any indication of how his play calling might be, the Beavers might become more high flying.

Defense: The Beavers gave up 32 ppg last year and will be bringing back 3 of 4 defensive backs, 2 linebackers, and 1 starter on the d-line. All-league linebacker Colton Blascyk (6-0, 222 lbs) will look to lead the return the group to the days of the “Gang Green Defense”.

Outlook: Coach Jeff Tesch leads the squad for the 20th straight year. He owns a 119-87 record, but over the past few years in the new Northern Sun Conference the Beavers have struggled. BSU has been 3-8 in the successive years, after having winning seasons 14 of the previous 15 campaigns. In 2015 the BSU should show significant improvement over their 24 ppg of last season, but the Beavers defense will likely be similar to their 2014 performance. If BSU can get strong play from their front 7 on defense they might be closer to .500.

Prediction: 4-7


SMSU Mustangs
2014 Record: 3-8
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 5/7

Offense: The last few seasons the Mustangs have had the luxury of having 2 of the better offensive players in the conference with RB Tyler Tonderum and QB Charlie Kern. Coming into 2015 they are now reloading and the SMSU offense will be led by Sophomore QB Blake Gimbel, and Senior RB Davontay Stevens (5-7, 195 lbs, 483 yards rushing in 2014) will be getting the brunt of the carries. Ashanti Payne (JR, 5-9, 190) will also get touches as well.

Gimbel looked respectable in spot duty last year but finished just 36 for 63 with 332 yards passing, with 1 score and 1 interception. He’s more of a pocket passer at 6-4, 212 lbs, but the Mustangs coaching staff believes he can step right in and do well.

The offensive line for the Mustangs should be much more prepared for success in 2015, having returning starters unlike 2014. Wideout Nate Huot (6-1, 201 lbs) has the potential to become one of the top threats in the conference coming off a strong freshman year in which he caught 52 balls for 649 yards and 9 scores.

Defense: The Mustangs defense has been the squad’s Achilles heel for quite some time now and was again last season. The SMSU defense gave up 39 ppg, which makes it hard to win games in the strong South Division. With AJ Page (SR-DL, 6-6, 260 lbs) returning after playing hurt for nearly all of 2014 and all-league player Drew McReynolds (SR-DB, 5-11, 192 lbs) flanking the back half of the defense, this SMSU D has some good pieces in place. Linebacker Tyler Flud (JR, 6-0, 232 lbs) will anchor in the middle, a player who recorded 88 tackles in 2014. Page has the talent to be a top defensive lineman in this conference but needs to finish his career strong if the Mustangs are going to be better this fall.

Outlook: The SMSU offense will likely be about the same overall as their 26 ppg output last year. They should be more established upfront, but the loss of guys like Kern and Tonderum will hurt them at the skill positions, even if Tonderum was dinged up much of last season. The SMSU defense should see some benefits with the addition of defensive coach Mike Aldrich from WSC. The Mustangs should have their best defense in recent years given the experience and playmakers they are returning. Overall, looking at the depth of solid teams in the South, I’m not sure I see their season being much different than a year ago.

Prediction: 3-8






(Photo: UMary website)

UMary Marauders
2014 Record: 5-6
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 5/7

Offense: The Marauders went through some ups and downs last year, but they were a far more prolific offense with Zach Roberson (SR, 6-3, 240 lbs) under center. Roberson was hurt just a couple of games into the season and didn’t return until the end of the year. Freshman Ben Jolliffe (6-2, 185 lbs) was thrust into action early and the UMary offensive identity changed without Roberson throwing the ball down the field. With Roberson on the field the Maruaders averaged 429 yards a game through the air, but without him the passing game struggled.

The challenge for the Marauders offense will be they graduated a lot of bodies, including their top 3 pass-catchers and top 2 leading rushers. For 2015 the running game should see Adam Woroniecki (SR, 6-2, 200 lbs) getting first carries, while VaShawn Pope (SO, 6-4, 200 lbs) will get a chance to become a playmaker for Mary in the passing game. Yes, VaShawn is the brother is former standout Elby Pope who topped 1,000 yards receiving last year with 10 scores.

Defense: UMary under-performed a bit versus expectations given some of the talent they returned last year, including All-American Grant Singer. With some of their star-power gone the Marauders will need to reduce their 34 ppg average if they are going to improve on last year’s losing season. Senior defensive back Preston Tescher (6-0, 195 lbs) is a 2-time all-league player that will lead an experience defense that returns 7 starters.

Outlook: With the numerous losses Mary experienced in both leadership and offensive productivity, along with the middle group of teams in the North Division seemingly getting a little better, I have the Marauders sliding back a bit from their 5-win season a year ago.

Prediction: 3-8


Upper Iowa Peacocks
2014 Record: 6-5
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 4/6

Offense: The 2014 UIU offense was filled with some of the best players that’ve played football in Fayette. Unfortunately they graduated 28 seniors including their star quarterback Cole Jaeschke, running back Chris Smith, tight end Lucas Hefty, wideouts Keaton Hosch and Shay Gutman. When looking at their numbers, the Peacocks lost about 95% of their offensive productivity. To the credit of these players, they gave the Peacocks the first back to back winning seasons in 50 years.

Taking a critical look at things, the Peacocks are rebuilding. At quarterback the leader coming into camp appears to be the very athletic Dimitri Morales (JR, 6-2, 205 lbs) who’s new to the program after transferring from Chaffey College in California. Morales is highly touted and coming off an injury last year. He’s been in school since January and did participate in spring football. Morales has runaway speed at the quarterback spot and is a capable passer. The bigger challenge for him will be the lack of experienced weapons to work with.

The OLine will be the strength of this returning group with 3 starters back. Filling in the other blanks will occur during fall camp. At running back expect for Vince Otdoerfer (JR, 5-6. 170 lbs) to get carries, while it will be interesting to see if highly touted local incoming freshman Ryan Parmely (6-1, 220 lbs) gets thrust into action right away for the Peacocks. Parmely runs like a truck and was a multiple time state champion wrestler in the state of Iowa, having been recruited by Big 10 schools. At UIU he will be afforded the opportunity to play football and wrestle as well. An agreement between coaches.

At wideout things will be determined during fall camp, but the Peacocks do return Trey MacTaggart (JR, 6-0, 205 lbs) who went for 377 yards receiving and 3 scores in 2014.
Marty Huggins, the OC for the Peacocks in recent years, has moved on to Indiana University of PA. That said, no offensive coordinator was hired and instead Head Coach Tom Shea will work together with his staff on play calling going forward.

Defense: The Peacocks don’t lose nearly as much defensively. They graduated 2 very good corners, but will return one of the top linebackers in the league in Alex Wahl (SR, 6-2, 225 lbs) and d-lineman Jevell Rollins (SR, 6-2, 290 lbs). The Peacocks should be capable, but defense is where they’ve struggled even in these recent winning campaigns, allowing 31 ppg last season. Without more experience returning, it’s hard to see UIU making large improvements on that number. However, this is the area that Coach Shea is really expecting to see improvement year over year.

Outlook: I could have it completely wrong, but I see the Peacocks returning to where they were in just a few short years ago at the bottom of the South Division. Dimitri Morales looks like he’s got potential to be a playmaker at quarterback, but the Peacocks simply have too many new parts with little experience to see a lot of success here in the tough South Division.

Prediction: 2-9



Minot State Beavers
2014 Record: 1-10
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 6/7

Offense: The MSU offense has to be looking forward to the return of Senior signal-caller Zac Cunha. The California native has been the starter in his 3 previous seasons in Minot and will be the team captain this year. Cunha has thrown for 41 career touchdowns, but has also been intercepted 39 times. Last season Cunha threw 14 touchdowns with only 5 picks. If the Beavers are going to take a step forward offensively in 2015, they will need Cunha to have his most prolific year yet, and also get some help from the running game.

Jarvis Mustipher should get the first shot in the backfield. He’s a 5-7, 212 (JR) running back who amassed 415 yards last season and 3 scores. In the passing game the Beavers will be reloading a bit at wideout with Porter Sturm (SR, 37 catches for 392, 3 touchdowns) and Brayden Loertscher (SR, 6 catches for 63 yards) stepping forward.

Defense: The Beaver defensive line returns the NSIC-North Preseason Defensive Player of the Year in Thomas Bryson (SR, 6-5, 228 lbs). Bryson was a transfer from Snow College (same school as MSU Head Coach Tyler Hughes) and he made an immediate impact with 10.5 sacks and 68 tackles.

The defensive side of the ball will need a better team effort than the one they got in 2014 when they allowed 39 ppg. With 7 returning starters they should be able to improve as a unit.

Outlook: Coach Hughes came in just before the start of the season in 2014 due to Todd Hoffner going back to Mankato. This time around Coach Hughes gets a full recruiting period, Spring Ball, and a year of experience at Minot under his belt. With the offense only averaging 15 ppg last year, they will have their work cut out for them if they are going to move from the bottom of the league to the middle of the pack. If the Beavers returned more established weapons for QB Zac Cunha to work with I’d have Minot State higher up in the standings. As they are, it’s hard for me to see much more than a few wins in 2015.

Prediction: 1-10




(Photo: UMC website)

Minnesota Crookston

2014 Record: 0-11
Returning Starters (Off/Def): 7/7

Offense: The Golden Eagles struggled offensively in 2014, scoring an average of 14ppg. Ben Bucholz was the signal-caller for the squad for nearly the entire year but sophomore Travon Hearns came on towards the end of the season and will be the man in 2015. Hearns is a dual-threat player with a big frame (6-4, 243 lbs). Dre Person (299 yards, 3 touchdowns) will likely be the guy getting the carries and sophomore Adam Connette (51 catches for 628 yards, 5 touchdowns) will be a real threat for UMC in the passing game. While UMC is still a bit undersized at the point of attack, their returning playmakers should help them become a little more explosive offensively.

Defense: UMC was a league worst against the run, giving up 292 ypg. Along with that the Golden Eagles allowed 49ppg by the opposition. There’s a lot of teams who like to pound the ball in the Northern Sun, so it’s apparent that UMC will need to get better at slowing down the running game or they will be in for a long year. Some guys that will need to lead the defense will be all-league player Senior Drew Selvestra (DL), A.J. Wallace (SR-DL), and Brody Davidson (SR-LB).

Outlook: It’s hard to see a lot of bright spots for this coming season. If the Golden Eagles can get back into the win-column that’d be a start. Given the Senior-leaders on defense and the returning playmakers on offense, I will take UMC to show improvement in 2015.

Prediction: 1-10