Dakota State University Football: A Legacy of Trojans on the Gridiron

Dakota State University's football program boasts a history dating back to 1908. The Dakota State Trojans football team represents Dakota State University, competing as a member of the Frontier Conference in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). From its early beginnings to its present-day status, the program has experienced numerous changes, celebrated successes, and left an indelible mark on the university and its community.

Early Years and Program Establishment

The school's first football team was fielded in 1908, marking the beginning of a long and evolving athletic tradition at Dakota State University.

Conference Affiliations and Transitions

Dakota State has been affiliated with several conferences throughout its history, reflecting the changing landscape of collegiate athletics. In April 2013, DSU accepted an invite to join the North Star Athletic Association. In May 2024, Dakota State announced a move to the Frontier Conference. As a member of the Frontier Conference, the Dakota State Trojans football team continues to build on its legacy in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

Memorable Seasons and Achievements

Over the years, Dakota State has had its share of memorable seasons and notable achievements. In October 1977, the Trojans earned the SDIC title by toppling DWU. Dakota State has played in one postseason bowl game.

Brian Kern Family Stadium

Dakota State University christened the Brian Kern Family Stadium. In August 2024, Dakota State thumps rival Dakota Wesleyan to christen Brian Kern Family Stadium. DSU football began a new era at Brian Kern Family Stadium in August 2024. Dakota State played its final game at Trojan Field.

Read also: Fighting Hawks Overview

Key Players and Hall of Famers

Throughout its history, the Dakota State football program has been home to many talented athletes who have left their mark on the field. Darwin Robinson was inducted in 2021. Tommy Hofer is a 2024 DSU Athletics Hall of Fame inductee for football. The 2012 DSU Athletics Hall of Fame also recognized significant contributors to the football program.

Individual Records and Statistical Highlights

Several Dakota State players have achieved remarkable individual records, showcasing their talent and dedication.

Rushing:

Yards:
- 642 yards
- 576 yards
- 566 yards
- 564 yards

Passing:

Yards:
- 505 - Torren Devericks
- 452 - Jacob Giles
- 432 - Justin Thielke
- 502 - Torren Devericks
- 468 - Jacob Giles
- 428 - Justin Thielke

Receptions:

59 - Jacob Giles
56 - Dylan Jones
40 - Jacob Giles
32 - Jacob Giles
32 - Jacob Giles
30 - Brandon Large
30 - Art Solis

Touchdowns:

7 - Jacob Giles
7 - Jacob Giles
6 - Jacob Giles
5 - Jacob Giles
5 - Terry Kasperbauer
5 - Tom Nielsen

Longest Plays:

95 yards - Kenny Korns to Ron Struck
92 yards - Paul Bagala to Stacey Berg
92 yards - Terry Kasperbauer to Toney Blanks
54 yards - Don Simon
100 yards - Brian Melvin

Scoring:

17 - Austin Opdahl
15 - Austin Opdahl
14 - Tommy Hofer
13 - Tommy Hofer
13 - Tommy Hofer

All-Purpose Yards:

333 - Austin Opdahl
231 - Mark Maples

Tackles:

5 - Austin Opdahl
46 - Darwin Robinson
46 - Jim Janssen

Interceptions:

5 - Jeff Rodman
5 - Jeff Rodman

Punting:

59.0 - Caleb Nielsen
52.0 - Caleb Nielsen
48.7 - Kaden Hight
49.0 - Caleb Nielsen
48.4 - Mark Hurd
27.7 - Brendon Waldner
26.3 - Brendon Waldner
20.0 - Steve Avery

Kick Returns:

41.25 - Tard Smith
165 - Tard Smith
157 - Tamareon Foster

Rushing Attempts:

25 - Ben Kullos
23 - Noah Sanderson
22 - Eric Liles
21 - Ben Kullos
22 - Craig Hertz
20 - Ben Kullos
18 - Ryan Dozier
18 - Ben Kullos

Field Goals:

4 - Paul Naughton

Miscellaneous:

Single Game Records:

59 - Jacob Giles vs.
56 - Dylan Jones vs.
40 - Jacob Giles vs.
32 - Jacob Giles vs.
32 - Jacob Giles vs.
30 - Brandon Large vs.
30 - Art Solis vs.
7 - Jacob Giles vs.
7 - Jacob Giles vs.
6 - Jacob Giles vs.
5 - Jacob Giles vs.
5 - Terry Kasperbauer vs.
5 - Tom Nielsen vs.
17 - Austin Opdahl vs.
15 - Austin Opdahl vs.
14 - Tommy Hofer vs.
13 - Tommy Hofer vs.
13 - Tommy Hofer vs.
5 - Austin Opdahl vs.
46 - Darwin Robinson vs.
46 - Jim Janssen vs. Univ.
5 - Jeff Rodman vs.
5 - Jeff Rodman vs. Univ.
5 - Austin Opdahl vs.
5 - Jeff Rodman vs. Univ.
30 - Austin Opdahl vs.
30 - Jeff Rodman vs. Univ.
15 - Don Simon vs.
4 - Don Simon vs.
8 - Brwyn Ractliffe vs.
8 - Brywn Ractliffe vs.
8 - Mitch Lynch vs.
7 - Don Simon vs.
6 - Nic Behrens vs.

Coaching Staff

The Dakota State football program is guided by a dedicated coaching staff. The 2025 Football Coaching Staff is committed to developing the skills and character of their players. Josh Anderson is part of the coaching staff.

Recent Seasons

In recent years, the Dakota State football team has continued to compete in the NAIA, facing challenges and celebrating victories. In September 2017, Dakota State broke records and took the cup in early season affairs. Wisconsin-La Crosse handed DSU football a home opener setback.

All-Americans and All-Conference Selections

Dakota State University has a proud tradition of producing NAIA Men's All-Americans. The university also recognizes its All-Conference selections.

Read also: Explore SDSU Degrees

Dakota State University Brand

The Dakota State University brand manual provides guidelines for representing the university and its athletic programs.

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