In a significant boost for their football program, the University of South Dakota (USD) Coyotes have announced the successful signing of another stellar recruiting class. Head Coach Bob Nielson and his coaching staff have made waves yet again, bringing in a group of athletes poised to elevate the team’s performance in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC).
### A Class Built on Talent and Potential
The Coyotes’ 2024 recruiting class features standout players across various positions, including quarterbacks, wide receivers, defensive backs, and linemen. Coach Nielson expressed his excitement, stating, “This group of athletes embodies the hard work, discipline, and commitment we strive for at USD. They have the potential to make an immediate impact on the field.”
One of the class’s headliners is dual-threat quarterback Ethan Marks from Omaha, Nebraska. Known for his explosive mobility and sharp decision-making, Marks passed for over 2,500 yards and rushed for an additional 1,200 yards during his senior year. He’s already drawing comparisons to some of the MVFC’s top quarterbacks.
Another key addition is wide receiver Jamal Green from Minneapolis, Minnesota. At 6’2” with a 4.4-second 40-yard dash, Green’s speed and agility make him a deep-threat playmaker. Green’s high school coach described him as “a game-changer” who can shift the momentum of a game with a single play.
Defensively, the Coyotes secured commitments from standout players like defensive back Alex Turner from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and linebacker Mason Diaz from Des Moines, Iowa. Both are known for their tenacity and football IQ, traits that will bolster USD’s defensive capabilities.
### Emphasizing Local Talent
A notable feature of this year’s recruiting effort is the emphasis on securing top local talent. The Coyotes have managed to attract some of South Dakota’s finest athletes, reinforcing the program’s commitment to its roots. Coach Nielson emphasized the importance of local recruitment, saying, “We’re proud to showcase the talent that comes out of our region. It’s essential to give these players a platform to shine while representing their home state.”
### A Program on the Rise
This latest recruiting success underscores USD’s rising stature in college football. Under Coach Nielson’s leadership, the program has steadily improved, with several key victories in recent seasons. The new recruits are expected to build on this momentum and help the Coyotes contend for a conference title.
Athletic Director David Herbster also weighed in, stating, “This recruiting class is a testament to the hard work of our coaching staff and the appeal of our program. We’re excited to see how these young athletes grow and contribute to the success of Coyote football.”
### Looking Ahead
As the Coyotes gear up for the upcoming season, fans have much to look forward to. The new recruits bring energy, skill, and a fresh wave of optimism to the team. With this strong foundation, USD aims to solidify its position as a powerhouse in the MVFC and beyond.
For the USD community and football enthusiasts, one thing is clear: the future is bright for Coyote football.
Leave a Reply