Special Championship Issue
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WE ARE PROUD TO BE NDSU ALUMNI & VOLUNTEERS Gwen stated, “I really enjoyed my time as an undergraduate and wanted to stay engaged after graduation. I guess my passion and commitment were contagious and soon my husband and children were embraced by the NDSU family.”
Jim shares, “I actually graduated from Iowa State. I attended NDSU events with Gwen and soon realized that you did not need to be a graduate to be part of the Bison family. The Alumni Association and Development Foundation welcomed me and now I am an active volunteer serving as a Foundation Trustee.”
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We believe in donating often to provide support for vital initiatives that support NDSU students and that set NDSU apart from the competition.
If we all participate and demonstrate our NDSU spirit, we can make a difference for current students and enrich North Dakota State’s tradition of excellence. Go Bison!
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FEBRUARY2014
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AT A GLANCE OPENING
THE ROAD TO GLORY
Take a look back at the most memorable moments of the 2013 football season on the road to glory.
10 12 14 16
FROM THE PUBLISHER Editor’s Note Top 5 Moments Meet The Team
BISON PRIDE
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104
THE PLAYMAKERS
LEADING THE HERD
Re-live the 2013 football season with eight Bison football players who made significant contributions throughout the year. Not only do they reflect on a third consecutive FCS championship, but they are already looking forward to next season.
We sat down with NDSU President Dean Bresciani and athletic director Gene Taylor to catch us up on what’s happening with the University.
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RECOGNITION FROM THE CAPITOL
138
KLIEMAN - NEXT IN LINE
145 148
THE QUAD SQUAD
150
STEVE WALKER’S HOT STOVE
152 154 156
TEAM MAKERS
DID YOU KNOW WITH BRIAN SHAWN
SWANY SAYS POP QUIZ
MORE
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BISON COACHING PANTHEON
An ode to a handful of Bison football legends and introducing a new member into the Championship fraternity.
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THOUGHTS FROM THE GREATS
Ever wonder if the 2013 Bison could beat the 1986 team? We asked James Molstre and Jeff Bentrim to contrast styles of both teams.
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Thank you Bison Nation I Mike Dragosavich Publisher, Bison Illustrated
would like to start this column by saying: “whoooaaa yaaaa!” How awesome is all of this? I mean, think about it. For me, it’s a dream come true across multiple channels. Not only do I have the chance to publish this magazine, but I had the opportunity to grasp the Bison tradition and standards first-hand 11 years ago as a player.
I am going to share with you a third-person story I think is funny and truthful about my experience with NDSU. (Don’t make fun of me for using thirdperson; Richard Sherman said it was a good idea...)
and seven layers of denim, the six-foot-five, sweaty punter was hoisted and crowd surfed pretending to be a fish and reeled in by the world’s greatest punter fisherman, No. 22 John Majeski. What some would think was just a silly prank turned into one of the most defining moments of Drago’s life. This performance opened the door to the hearts of the community and the result of all the amazing response put a solid stamp on the fact that Drago has found his home.
My Story
A long, long time ago there was this String Bean, goofy guy named Dragosagonovich, or Dragrosanovich or something like that. (Let’s just call him Drago) made a trip to a town he thought was in Hollywood, where the sequel for “Fargo 2: The Revenge of the Wood Chipper” was being shot.
Special thanks to my team at Spotlight Media, NDSU’s Sports Information Department, all advertisers, and all of you out there in Bison Nation!
This city slicker wandered the plains for a year as a wide receiver, wondering if women driving pickup trucks and chewing tobacco were a normal occurrence or just a freshman prank. As he grinded away at making the squad catching footballs, a need was in place for a backup punter. With aero dynamic ankles, this Drago kid kicked a couple footballs for fun and caught the eye of the coach, who took quick notice (considering his incredible achievement as All-American Punter in the 80s). Drago didn’t think there was punting in the 80s, but he didn’t care and thought “Wow, that’s cool, Coach Bradley.” Evolving into a punter, Drago earned a new nickname from the “Try and Unsuccessfully Block the Punt Practice Team”, “Meat”, because of how much they would actually block Drago’s leg instead of the ball.
It was a 1-in-32 shot to become an NFL punter. Now, the trick was how does this guy finish school and pursue this venture. Once again, in came Bison Nation. This time in the form of a couple of Heroes of the Herd, Dr. Dennis Izzo, Carolyn Schnell and Dr. Fischer who went beyond the call of duty and spearheaded a way to get Drago a degree. At some points this seemed more impossible than making the NFL.
Within a year, a new person was born. He became Drago, the strong-legged punter with a hard working attitude and a new free time initiative program to adjust to. With time that would have been spent in meeting rooms, String Bean began putting his Mass Communications major to work. On a cold night in the fall (duh), Drago, or Bill the Janitor made an appearance as a dancing custodian at a NDSU men’s basketball game. The game was full to the brim with fans and after five consecutive minutes of improv-comical dancing with a broom
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Addiction. It’s the only word that could describe Drago’s emotion to Bison Nation. This addiction fueled his need to succeed. After a couple more stints of humility and some booming punts, Meat, now had a shot to go to the National Football League. (No not as a halftime performer, although, that would have been pretty hilarious),
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
In the NFL, Drago, or as the New England Patriots called him — Ivan Drago — the foreign punter from Russia, which they made him pretend to be for an
entire night at a charity Karaoke event. With impeccable vocals and dance moves to the song “Let’s Get Physical” by Olivia Newton John, he made a stamp on Boston and the New England Patriots. Unfortunately, that stamp came on a release form and he was on the next plane to Fargo. After two more years pursuing the NFL, Drago made the decision to hang up the cleats, broom stick and 80s head band, and focus on a new career. The question was then clear. What does this guy do now? Either go back to Chicago or stay in Fargo. The answer was even more clear – Fargo. If there is one thing that Drago learned at NDSU, it is that people have your back and the people are everything. So with this desire to protect Fargo, Drago wanted to create a business that would help everyone realize the feeling and compassion he received in the community of Fargo and Bison Nation. So a magazine was born. “FM Spotlight” was a source of information for Fargo to find leisure and entertainment. After the success of that publication came three more magazines, but in the most amazing full-circle type of events, the fourth magazine presented to Drago was “Bison Illustrated.” In the second year as publisher of Bison Illustrated, Drago then went on to start a NDSU Bison clothing company called One Herd. (Meaning we are all in this together.) He also started a charity that works with One Herd to help make that meaning real. The moral of the story is: Fargo, N.D., and NDSU’s support structure, fan base, tradition and honesty provide opportunities for anyone, tall, big, thin, punter, dancer, broke, scared or lost to find happiness and exhilaration. Please use these football victories and exposure opportunities to spread all the great things about this University and community. A special thanks to the Spotlight Media crew and NDSU Media Relations for helping put together this unbelievable issue.
Go Bison #oneherd,
Drago
EDITOR’S
NOTE
The Perfect Send Off
FROM THE EDITOR
The fairy tale ending to a dream-like season of Bison football has come to a close. Through the distractions and amid the controversies, head coach Craig Bohl kept his team on the path, moving forward all the while knowing this year was his last in Fargo.
Joe Kerlin
Editor, Bison Illustrated C O N TA C T M E joe@bisonillustrated.com facebook.com/bisonillustrated @bisonmag
It was a subtle moment... and it seems like it always is. He stands with his quiet six-foot stature, his confident demeanor classified to some as Midwest arrogance, but those who are close would say its head coach Craig Bohl being exactly that – Coach Bohl. Forty minutes before the game at the 50-yard line, the focused figure wears his green Bison hat that rests silently on his head, covering up what’s underneath where his brain is strategizing what he says is “how to get the next first down.” Moments before the 2013 FCS National Championship game, it’s tough to believe he’s not soaking in his last moments as the leader and CEO of the North Dakota State University football program. Now, Coach Bohl and the 104 wins in his back pocket will tell you sentimental thoughts and any feelings of “the last time” were suppressed during the third and final championship run. We believe him because that’s the man
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@j_kerlin
we have grown accustomed to and the way he continuously went about his business, but you want to believe this past year, especially during the playoffs, everything meant a little more to our Coach Bohl. The human element of coaching and being a teacher sets in before ending an 11-year run at NDSU and there’s no way Bohl wasn’t taking in every moment. Like any coach, Bohl has had his ups and downs during his tenure as a Bison. A forgettable 2009 campaign that a handful of seniors who claimed their third championship lived through seems as far away as the days when Bohl arrived in Fargo in 2003. Distant memories of Bohl’s 28-11 record as defensive coordinator of his almamater, Nebraska, were swept clean as he was allowed to start a new chapter of his life, and boy did he have a nice introduction to the Fargo community.
“Success became routine, but the struggles on the Road to Glory and to FCS Championships stayed numerous.” 2003 may have been the last time the Bison played the University of North Dakota, but it was the beginning of the great revival of Bison Nation. Coach Bohl’s first five seasons were everything Bison fans imagined they would be, while the football team made their slow transition into Division I competition. Success became routine, but the struggles on the Road to Glory and to FCS Championships stayed numerous. Just as Coach Bohl has faced the grind his entire career, he met the challenges head on, always keeping his eyes on the prize. Even after the news broke that Bohl would be leaving after the playoffs, you knew it was going to take more than that to derail the 24-senior led Bison team from their number one goal – perfection. Coach Bohl, you’ll probably never read this, but thanks. I’m glad your team and your staff were sent off properly and are able to look back proudly at what you and the Bison football team accomplished, because it won’t be forgotten about in these parts for a long, long time.
Go Bison,
Joe Kerlin
TOP5
OUR
FAVORITE MOMENTS
FEBRUARY 2014 | VOLUME 8 ISSUE 7 Bison Illustrated is a free publication distributed monthly (9 times a year).Our mission is to help promote North Dakota State University Athletics, provide a quality and fun reading experience and to improve the way of life in our community. The publication is mailed to homes across the US and has stand distribution throughout North Dakota and Minnesota.
FROM THE FOOTBALL SEASON
PUBLISHER
Spotlight Media LLC.
PRESIDENT
Mike Dragosavich
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
coming together to cheer on the Herd. Thanks to the thousands of fans who traveled down and helped make our third consecutive championship unforgettable.
EDITOR
RESEARCHERS/ CONTRIBUTORS
Josh Swanson, Steve Walker, Joe Kerlin, Madalyn Laske, Terry Ludlum, Brian Shawn
GENERAL MANAGER SALES MANAGER
Watching the Bison win their third championship with my dad, Tom. It proves that Bison football is a family affair.
MARKETING/SALES CIRCULATION MANAGER WEBSITE PHOTOGRAPHY
PAUL BOUGIE
All of Bison Nation coming together at the FargoDome for tailgating. It is so much more than the wonderful food and beverages.
MADALYN LASKE
JOE KERLIN Wandering through the tailgating lot in Frisco, seeing all the Bison faithful
The camaraderie this season sparked throughout Bison Nation and the Fargo community was unbelievable. Tailgating, not just in Fargo, but after the multiple migrations across the country and the epic emotion during the games will not be soon forgot.
Joe Kerlin Andy Neidt, Sarah Geiger, George Stack
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COPY EDITORS
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Going to Kansas State and beating them on the day they dedicated their new stadium. Maybe the next FBS opponent won’t plan any ceremonies for when we play them.
ART DIRECTOR
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Bison Illustrated is published monthly by Spotlight Media LLC. Print quantity exceeds 20,000 per issue. Printed in the U.S.A. Bison Illustrated does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented. Bison Illustrated assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Bison Illustrated is NOT an official publication of North Dakota State University. Send change of address information and other correspondence to:
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
PLAY THE
MAKERS By Joe Kerlin and Madalyn Laske Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
The past three seasons of Bison football will go down in history as three of the best. We sat down with eight players who were major contributors to helping build the dynasty the Bison football team is today.
Have you been able to sit back and enjoy everything that is going on around you?
Anything you want to say about the great fan base Bison Nation has?
“Not really yet. It’s really overwhelming right now but eventually one day I’ll have the time to take a step back and look back at everything.”
“They are the best fans in the nation and without them it would be tough to accomplish what we have done over these past few years.”
Well, take a moment now and think about what you accomplished here. How special is it? “Thinking about it now, it’s pretty incredible what we did. I’m grateful to have awesome teammates and coaches and to be a part of this university.”
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So why did you choose to go with the particular agency that you did to pursue your NFL dreams? “They give me the best chance to play where I want to. I will be training six days a week. I have a position coach and I stay at a house with seven other guys that have chosen 7 Sports Group and it’s a nice little beach house ten minutes away from where we will be training.”
What will your workout consist of? “We will be working out in the morning, lifting weights and things like that, then working with our position coach after. Time to grind. It doesn’t end.”
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BROCK
JENSEN Quarterback CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
3 441 7 2
Starts Total yards Total touchdowns FCS Championship MVPs
MAJOR:
Physical and Health Education
YEAR: Senior
“Thinking about it now, it’s pretty incredible what we did. I’m grateful to have awesome teammates and coaches and to be a part of this university.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
35
CHRISTIAN
DUDZIK Free Safety
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
3 12 2
Starts Tackles Pass breakups
MAJOR:
Sports Management
YEAR: Junior
“They (the seniors) were the leaders of the team. They knew what they wanted to do; they wanted to get that third national championship.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
What were your expectations coming to NDSU as a North Dakota kid? “I’ve been around NDSU football my whole life. It’s great just to be part of the great tradition they have here. It’s been a true blessing. Coach Bohl took a chance on me, a small town Wahpeton kid, and I’m grateful for that. He’s just a great guy and it has been a pleasure playing underneath him.”
What’s it like putting your home state in the national spotlight? “It’s awesome. It’s great for the state, winning these last three national championships. It’s really putting North Dakota back on the map, putting NDSU on the map. You ask any of the small town guys that play for this team and they are forever grateful for this team too. Just to go out on top like we did is a great feeling and it’s awesome.”
Coming into your career, I’m sure your expectations were high. But now that you finished your career with three rings, how does that feel? “It feels almost surreal. You win one and you’re grateful. You get three, you’re kinda getting selfish there a little bit. I’m just kidding. It’s awesome. Just to be part of
and have the teammates that I’ve had and the chemistry that we’ve had on this team. I’ve made life-long friends. And just to go out on top is one of the greatest feelings... And being a captain too, just leading these guys, it’s been awesome.”
So what’s next for Mr. Ryan Smith? “I’m going to give it a shot at the next level, the pros. And if that doesn’t work, I always have plan B. I’ll get my degree in business administration. We’ll see what happens from there. Maybe I’ll go be a stock broker somewhere or a salesperson. We’ll see.”
How great are those memories you will have from these past four years? “It’s been fun, it’s been a lot of fun. I have a lot of memories. A lot of great memories. Hence three national championships, three conference championships and I’m going to remember it my whole life and it’s been one heck of a ride.”
4
RYAN
SMITH Wide Receiver
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
3 210 1
Starts All-purpose yards Touchdown
MAJOR:
Business Administration
YEAR: Senior
“It’s been a true blessing. Coach Bohl took a chance on me, a small-town Wahpeton kid, and I’m grateful for that.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
20
COLTEN
HEAGLE Strong Safety
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
2 11 1
Starts Tackles Blocked kick
*Missed 2012 game with a knee injury
MAJOR:
Marketing
YEAR: Junior
“Leadership is making sure everyone is staying focused and hungry to win a fourth one which no one has ever done.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
There were a lot of guys on this team that were banged up and still played. What does it take to do that? “It’s part toughness and part being a team player and wanting to be there for your teammates. You want to be out there playing with them all even if you’re hurt.”
So you weren’t surprised when Jeremy Gordon and Grant Olson came back to play with bad knees? “I knew that they were going to come back. I talked to Jeremy after it happened, and he was saying, ‘I’m not done yet.’”
Did you talk to Grant at all after his injury? “Yeah, after the game he was bummed but you couldn’t tell. He was still out there trying to coach guys and keep them playing and staying positive for everyone else and keep the attention away from himself.”
How was the transition and how did Grant help you slide in to the middle linebacker position? “You guys don’t see what we see. There were a lot of mistakes made. Throughout the season he helped me. It wasn’t easy at first. Playing outside, you have certain things that you always do. I was in space and now I’m inside with the linemen.”
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How was the defense able to keep its foot on the gas and keep up the tenacity after the offense gave it a comfortable lead? “It’s coaching, but it’s the players having a mindset that we want to be dominant. We always wanted to go into a game and not give up a point.”
How is the culture staying the same? “The first year we knew we were a good, physical team, but not everyone knew that. In the second run, we wanted to show we were not complacent. It’s a different thing each year, but we were the same team, same philosophy, same guys and the same goal.”
What’s the motivation for this fall? “Staying dominant.”
Is staying at the top something that came easier than the ride to the top? “I think it’s harder. We got everybody gunning for us now. Everyone knows what we’re about, that we’re the top dog and we want to stay there.”
How much did you work directly with Coach Klieman when he was your defensive coordinator? “Every week during practice. We became close throughout the meetings, seeing him outside of practice or having that break during practices just to talk.”
Is there any piece of Bohl that is going to stick with this team next year? “Everything he taught us will still be here. It’s not like he had a certain philosophy you give up on when he leaves. He told us to be hard working and to never be complacent and those are things that we have been about for years.”
Have you been following Billy Turner lately? “Yeah I saw him at that first practice. I think he’s got a good chance with what the guys are saying. I’m just checking his Twitter and seeing what he’s doing. It’s pretty exciting though.”
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CARLTON
LITTLEJOHN Linebacker
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
2 19 1
Starts Tackles Interception
MAJOR:
University Studies
YEAR: Junior
“We got everybody gunning for us now. Everyone knows what we’re about, that we’re the top dog and we want to stay there. People are going to give us their best shot.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
19
BEN
LECOMPTE Punter
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
2 46.25 2 4
Starts Yards per punt Punts inside the 20 KO Touchbacks
MAJOR:
Business Administration
YEAR:
Sophomore
“We’re hungry and we’ve got something to prove... If people in the outside world are nervous, they shouldn’t be because we’re not going to skip a beat here.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
At this time last year did the offense feel like it had something to prove? “Yeah, our team has always been surrounded by a strong defense. Last year we wanted to shine and show we can pass the ball and put points on the board.”
Do you feel like you guys did that? “Yeah, our pass efficiency was about as good as it’s been since Coach Burns says he’s been here. We outscored our opponents 100-some to 40 in the playoffs so we definitely shined through.”
Individually what was it like to have that break out season? “It was definitely my time to get going after the first two years with the injury. It was kind of nice to have everything set its place and go well for me.”
The seniors that are leaving seemed to have that motivating factor. Anything about Brock in particular? “It was his senior season and he wanted to finish out with a bang and have the best season of all time. He was determined to be the best quarterback that NDSU has ever seen and for leading us to all these championships, I would say he did that.”
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What’s motivating you right now? “We think that people are thinking that we can’t get it done just because there are new coaches. We want to show everybody that it’s the team that has been this successful the past couple of years, not just the coaches.”
What is your on-the-field relationship with Carson Wentz like? “I’ve got a good relationship with him. We’ve been throwing already and are going to get that connection down soon. He’s been learning a lot from Brock so he’s going to pick up on it fast.”
What’s something about Carson not a lot of people know? “He’s going to be able to really run the huddle and have everybody listen to him and just be that guy that we can all count on.”
==
What’s your connection with Coach Polasek? “He introduced himself and said what the plan is for the year. He’s excited. I could tell all the coaches are ready to go and we’re anxious to get started too.”
Obviously tradition is important at NDSU. Are you implementing anything new? “They are going to keep it kind of the same. Coach Polasek says he wants to keep the offense very similar. Maybe change a little terminology so play calls aren’t as long and try to throw the ball just a little bit more. But still, since we’ve always been all about the run, it’s still going to be a main part of the offense.”
What would you want to say to Coach Bohl? “I’d just like to thank him for all the time he’s put to this team and the best of luck to him in Wyoming.”
What would you want to say to the seniors? “They’ve given a lot for this program and it’s a group of guys I’ll never forget and I’ll definitely miss them all.”
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ZACH
VRAA
Wide Receiver
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
2 82 1
Starts Receiving yards Touchdown
MAJOR:
Sports and Recreation Management
YEAR: Junior
“We want to show everybody that it’s the team that has been this successful the past couple of years, not just the coaches.”
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THE
PLAYMAKERS
53
KYLE
EMANUEL Defensive End
CHAMPIONSHIP STATS:
2 10
Starts Tackles
*59-yard blocked field goal return in the 2013 championship game
MAJOR:
Construction Management
YEAR: Junior
“I have seen three classes above me go out on top and now I’m a senior, and that’s exactly what I want to do.”
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
THE ROAD TO GLORY By Joe Kerlin Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
Expectations, pressure... and a little bit of luck. These essential obstacles and breaks are realities every championship team encounters when striving to be crowned the best. During their journey, the 2013 Bison football team overcame a variety of disturbances the only way they knew how: by dominating. Beginning with their backs against the wall in Manhattan, Kan., to dodging playoff coaching distractions, the football season was a ride to remember. 38
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39
THE ROAD TO GLORY
KANSAS STATE WIN
24-21 Do you remember? »» Kansas State was coming off a 2012 Big 12 Championship. »» Fourth-straight victory against FBS opponents. »» Kansas State went on to win the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl against the University of Michigan.
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Brock Jensen @BrockJensen1 . 31 Aug Extremely humbled and thankful to be a part of such a special program.. #BisonNation #1-0
Ryan Smith @ryguy_4 . 31 Aug #BisonNation baby! Couldn’t have done it without our fans. Thank you!
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
on the road again I s there a better way of starting the season than in a hostile and humid environment at one of college football’s toughest stadiums? For the two-time defending FCS Champs, the answer was simple— absolutely not. Bison fanatics traveled 589 miles to Manhattan, Kan. to see if the highly touted class of seniors proved capable of taking down an elite opponent. Bison fans performed the only way they know how-by pitching tents a half-mile away from Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium to gather as one before their Bison played a storied Big 12 program. Eighteen plays, 80 yards, eight and a half minutes and one touchdown epitomized the resilience of this Bison team. A stunned Wildcat crowd read the score, 24-21 and knew that their opponent had just shocked the nation with a victory that would not be soon forgotten.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
FERRIS STATE WIN
56-10 Do you remember? »» The Bison were originally scheduled to play Montana State, but the Bobcats bought out the game for $100,000, to play Southern Methodist University for a $300,000 payout. The Bobcats lost 31-30 to the Mustangs. »» The Bison have won 15 straight home openers.
Photos by Matt Sather
T
he Bison received a warm welcome home eight days after their upset and performed flawlessly in front of a sold out FargoDome crowd. As the 2012 championship banner was raised, thoughts of a third title in three years began to stir within Bison Nation.
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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
The buzz surrounding the 2013 football season exploded around Fargo when the Bison kicked off the 2013 home schedule. Division II Ferris State was a late addition to the schedule and proved that the Bison weren’t going to take their foot off the pedal all season.
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DELAWARE STATE WIN
51-0 Do you remember? »» College GameDay almost went to Times Square. »» Lee Corso burst out of the Fargo Theatre with a baby Bison, who was named accordingly, “Corso.” »» NDSU was awarded the Herbie Award by Kirk Herbstreit. This award goes to Herbstreit’s favorite GameDay location of the year.
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
T
he media buzz and hype came to fruition as Dean Bresciani, Gene Taylor and the rest of the athletic department captured the attention of ESPN’s College GameDay and brought them to downtown Fargo.
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The rout of Delaware State is a faint memory compared to what happened hours before game time. ESPN talent Chris Fowler, Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit and Desmond Howard were welcomed with open arms as they jumped on the Bison bandwagon for the rest of the season with hopes returning to Fargo in the near future.
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
Brock Jensen @BrockJensen1 . 14 Sep You think College Gameday knows what they’re coming into next weekend? They’re about to be swimming in a sea of Green & Gold... #BisonNation Christian Dudzik @CeeDud . 14 Sep College Gameday is coming to NDSU next Saturday? Is this real life?
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Getting GameDay When ESPN's College GameDay selected Fargo as their next destination, Bison Nation was shocked and enthusiastic. What people don't know is that the announcement wasn't a surprise to the university’s president. President Dean Bresciani was in College Station, Texas when Chris Fowler broke the news on live television. "When I worked at Texas A&M, I was very involved with coordinating GameDay’s various past visits there," Bresciani said. "Prior to my arrival for the Alabama game this year, the GameDay folks mentioned to Texas A&M staff that ESPN was considering NDSU and asked the A&M folks if we’d be 'up to the task.' My former colleagues enthusiastically shared that NDSU was more than ready for the opportunity, ...That was all ESPN needed to hear."
“... it took several conversations for him (Taylor) to believe I wasn’t pulling his leg!” Bresciani continued, describing the moments after discovering GameDay was coming to Fargo, "When I arrived Friday evening for pre-game events, the TAMU staff informed me 'You got it!' ...When I called Gene Taylor to tell him… he was still under the impression that we wouldn’t find out for a day or two more so it took several conversations for him to believe I wasn’t pulling his leg!" It was an historic event in downtown Fargo, and a day that will be remembered for years to come.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
B ison fans... ...Young and old, united on the streets of downtown Fargo to show the nation that we make the perfect home for College GameDay. “I have done this for 24 years and we have taken this show everywhere. This is the 32nd state we have gone to and I have never seen this much interest in a GameDay appearance,” Chris Fowler said.
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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE WIN
20-0 Do you remember? »» Brock Jensen completed a 29yard pass to Zach Vraa, breaking Kevin Feeney’s school record for total offense (7,242). »» Jensen ended his career with 9,838 yards of total offense (school record). »» The Bison broke two attendance records in its first two away games of the season. (Kansas State’s largest home opener crowd – 53,351. South Dakota State - 16,498).
T
he celebration of GameDay was shortlived as the Bison and their loyal fans traveled south to the home of their hated foes, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits.
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Looking to bring its fourth-straight Dakota Marker trophy back north in a wind riddled Couglin-Alumnvcvvi Stadium, the Bison prevailed with its second-straight shutout.
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
Tunji @samojuri22 . 28 Sep Great team win today. The bison are 4-0 and the @dakotamarker is commin back home to Fargo. #shutout #roadto3peat #bisonation
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA WIN
24-23 Do you remember? »» Redshirt freshman Carey Woods caught his first collegiate touchdown. »» Two key penalties helped the Bison storm its way to a fourth quarter comeback.
A
nother top-10 matchup awaited the Bison when it got home for the 23rd Annual Tree Bowl against Northern Iowa. The Panthers are 3-3 against the Bison, giving them the most trouble since NDSU joined the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The strangle hold on the conference tightened after another dream-filled comeback from Brock Jensen. Sam Ojuri successfully completed the comeback late in the fourth quarter, plunging into the endzone on a 19-yard run. 56
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
Photos by Ben Gumeringer
THE ROAD TO GLORY
MISSOURI STATE WIN
41-26 Do you remember? »» Brock Jensen passed for a careerhigh 313 yards. He later broke the school record in passing with 8,598 yards in his career.
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Photos by NDSU Athletics
THE ROAD TO GLORY
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS WIN
31-10 Do you remember? »» The Bison ran for 331 yards against a 4th ranked Saluki defense (John Crockett 165, Sam Ojuri 143).
Photos by Saluki Media Services
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
INDIANA STATE WIN
56-10 Do you remember? »» The Bison had four returns for touchdowns. Heagle had an interception return (35 yards), Ryan Smith had a kickoff return (100 yards) and Christian Dudzik had two punt returns for touchdowns (43 and 68 yards).
Photos by Indiana State Athletics 62
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
ILLINOIS STATE WIN
28-10
Photos by Ben Gumeringer
Do you remember? »» In the third quarter, Grant Olson made a tackle and tore his ACL, which ended his season ... or what we thought ended his season.
Brock Jensen @BrockJensen1 . 9 Nov Big win, proud of our team! My heart goes out to our team leader @G34Olson one of the best players I’ve ever played with #GetWell #PrayingForU B Shep @b_shep2 . 9 Nov Sad day seeing a great leader and person go down today. Prayers up for my guy @G34Olson 64
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
THE ROAD TO GLORY
YOUNGSTOWN STATE WIN
35-17 Do you remember? »» Brock Jensen tied Appalachian State’s Armanti Edwards FCS record of 43 wins. Jensen ended the season with 48.
Photos by Richard Kraszynski 66
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
THE ROAD TO GLORY
SOUTH DAKOTA WIN
42-0 Do you remember? »» Sam Ojuri broke the 1,000yard barrier for the third year in a row. He ended his career with 3,694 yards, 3rd on the all-time Bison rushing list. »» The Bison won the Missouri Valley Football Conference Championship for the thirdstraight season.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
FURMAN WIN
38-7 Do you remember? »» Marcus Williams returned his 21st interception for a touchdown (Bison record). And it was his seventh pick-six of his career (FCS record). »» Senior Anthony LaVoy had his senior moment when he stuffed the Furman running back at the goal line on fourth down in the second quarter.
Photos by Ben Gumeringer
T
he Bison completed their first undefeated regular season since 1990, but none of it mattered now that the playoffs returned to the FargoDome where the Bison are a perfect 10-0 in the FCS Playoffs.
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In typical Bison fashion, the offense came out firing on all cylinders, but what stole the show were the headlines after the game. Shortly after the final horn, word of head coach Craig Bohl taking the head coach position at Wyoming broke. Suddenly a distraction had arisen and thoughts of a three-peat were in jeopardy because Bohl himself confirmed the news the following day.
Brock Jensen @BrockJensen1 . 7 Dec Really happy for Coach, love that man with all my heart... Sad it had to get leaked like this, doubt he wanted it to happen like it is. Marcus Williams #1 @TheRealMarcWill . 7 Dec Tell me this isn’t true.
Tunji @samojuri22 . 7 Dec Too much respect for coach. If this is true I’m glad I was able to play for him. #onceabisonalwaysabison 71
THE ROAD TO GLORY
COASTAL CAROLINA WIN
48-14 Do you remember? »» The Bison racked up 623 yards, the most since 2007. »» The weather outside at game time was 5 degrees Fahrenheit. »» The day after the game, NDSU announced defensive coordinator Chris Klieman will be taking over as head coach the next season.
A
s fans tailgated in a frozen West Parking Lot, any thoughts of distraction from Coach Craig Bohl leaving after the playoffs were diminished when the Bison came out and scored 34 points in the first half. It was evident that it was going to take more than their coach leaving after the season for the 24 seniors and the rest of the team to stop them from stomping their way through the playoffs. ESPN televised its first Bison game of the season, which was seen across the country, solidifying NDSU as the premiere FCS program. The Gold Rush was officially viral.
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Christian Dudzik @CeeDud . 15 Dec Could not be happier for Coach Klieman and his family. Excited for the future! “The culture here will not change.”
John Crockett @KingJCrock_23 . 15 Dec Chris Klieman MY new head coach love this man he is great and Dont worry coach K #23 got your back. And the tradition continues.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
NEW HAMPSHIRE WIN
52-14 Do you remember? »» An unlikely turn of events happened when Grant Olson made his return to the field with a shredded knee, a moral boost that jump-started the Bison. »» The Bison turned over the ball twice during their first two possessions, one leading to seven points for New Hampshire.
T
he past two seasons, the Bison had to fight their way through Georgia Southern to get to Frisco. This season it was New Hampshire that stood in the way coming off two upsets of 5th ranked Maine and 4th ranked SE Louisiana.
The Bison offense exploded for 52 unanswered points, led by a stifling running game from John Crockett and Leevon Perry’s first touchdown of his career.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
2014 CHAMPIONSHIP TOWSON WIN
35-7
Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
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Christian Dudzik @CeeDud . 4 Jan
Grant Olson @G34Olson . 4 Jan
3 in a row. 15 and 0. That’s all I have to say. Thank you seniors. #dynasty
I said it once and I’ll say it again, We Own Frisco!
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
Brock Jensen @BrockJensen1 . 4 Jan Couldn’t be more thankful to enjoy this historic day with my teammates, coaches, and of course the best 12th man in the country! #BisoNation 77
THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by Ben Gumeringer Top, left and right photo by Tiffany Swanson
Photo by Tiffany Swanson
T he pep rally Fargo invaded Dr. Pepper Field and made it one for the ages. Over 10,000 tickets were sold in just a few days as Bison Nation invaded Frisco for their third season in a row.
Bottom left and right photo by Cory Erickson 78
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
Southern Comfort In 2009, Frisco, Texas was labeled the fastest growing town in America. But in 2014, there was no way to prepare for the influx of Bison fans flooding the city. An estimated 19,802 Bison fans were at the football game, swarming the stadium that only contains 21,000.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Top and right photo by Cory Erickson
Left and bottom photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
INVADING FRISCO Bison fans made themselves at home cramming their way into the tailgating lot just outside of Toyota Stadium.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
The Arrival One of the most anticipated traditions of playing in the championship game is the walk to the stadium from the buses to the locker room. Bison fans maneuvered their way to get one last glance at their beloved Bison. For many players, it was their last interaction with fans as a Bison athlete, and a memory they will forever cherish.
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Do you remember? »» The Bison became the first FCS team to go undefeated since Marshall, who also went 15-0 in 1996. »» The Bison joined Appalachian State to become the second team to three-peat in the FCS. »» The Bison ended the season with a 24-game winning streak and will look to break the FCS record against Iowa State in their first game of the year.
T
he Bison returned to their second home, Frisco, Texas, for their third-straight time, looking to send out Craig Bohl, his coaching staff and its 24 seniors with their third ring. At the end of the second quarter Colten Heagle plunged forward, blocking the field goal that potentially would have put Towson in the lead. The ball was scooped up by Kyle Emanuel, who raced his way into the red zone, shifting the momentum back to the Bison. The Bison dominated for the rest of the game.
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GREGORY RICK President
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THANK YOU Top and bottom right photos by Cory Erickson
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
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THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
Ryan Smith @ryguy_4 . 4 Jan 15-0! #letsgo #turnup #nattychamps
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Sam Ojuri @samojuri22 . 4 Jan Best teammates, coaches, fans and the best program. Couldn’t ask of a better way to end my career!!! #GOBISON
On Your 3-peat!
7
THE ROAD TO GLORY
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
the hardware ”I just wanna say one thing: how about that Bison defense, though!?” Asked Brock Jensen as the NDSU crowd irrupted on the field from hearing the MVP quarterback begin his speech on stage. “...You couldn’t dream up anything like this, I mean, being a part of NDSU and what we have done. I’m just so blessed. I thank the lord, I thank my teammates and the coaching staff. We’re a part of something special here.”
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ews of the Bison three-peat made its way to the capitol as US Senator from North Dakota, John Hoeven, greeted the Bison football team back in Fargo to recognize their great accomplishment. "The NDSU football program has always been amazing," Hoeven said. "But I don't think it has ever had the national exposure as it does now." Hoeven made the 2013 Bison football team a part of a Senate Resolution and presented the honor to Athletic Director Gene Taylor and President Dean Bresciani.
10 0
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
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LEADING THE HERD
leading
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NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY President Dean Bresciani and Athletic Director Gene Taylor have become NDSU’s one-two punch when it comes to draining every drop of excellence out of the Bison Athletic Program. Not only has their university become an elite destination for athletes to come fulfill their dreams, it has become a prestigious academic institution leading the way in classrooms across North Dakota. We sat down with both Bresciani and Taylor to reflect on a record-breaking three year period as well as look to the future to find out what’s next for NDSU.
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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
10 5
GENE TAYLOR
Gene
TAYLOR our third trip to Texas in Q: With three years, did you, in your
wildest dreams, ever imagine Craig Bohl leading the football team to threestraight National Championships?
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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
A:
“Clearly when I hired Craig one of his goals was to lead us to a National Championship in football. He felt once we made the playoffs four years ago he had the makings of a team that could make a run. To win two in a row is very difficult to do and to win three, as you know, that has only happened one other time in the FCS, so I can’t say I dreamed of this when we hired Craig but after last year’s second Championship I felt it was a real possibility.”
GENE TAYLOR
loves your decision to Q: Fargo hire Chris Klieman as the next
head coach. What kind of football program is he going to run and do you have any early predictions for next year?
A:
“I don’t make predictions year to year, but what I can tell you is Coach Klieman is an excellent coach that is putting together a great staff so far. He is an extremely hard worker and there are a lot of talented football players on this team that the fans know about and have seen play and there are many others that the fans have not had a chance yet to see play. Coach Klieman understands and knows very well what type of football needs to be played at NDSU to be successful and his philosophy will support that. His team will be extremely well prepared week in and week out on both sides of the ball and I am looking forward to some outstanding football being played next year and for years to come.” 10 8
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
has been a cold winter and you may never get that first Q: Itshovel in the ground for the Sanford Health Athletic Complex.
Any updates on how that project is going?
A:
“Right now we are working on finalizing the schedule for the project. The start date will depend on the weather in the spring but as soon as we can we will be getting a shovel in the ground. We are working on locations for us to move our offices, places to practice for our teams and certainly competition facilities for basketball and wrestling. We will hope to have all of these answers in place soon so when the construction begins we will move to our temporary locations.”
Bohl had a lot to with the success, but were there any Q: Coach people behind the scenes helping the football program that the
public doesn’t know about?
A:
“Anytime you have sustained success there are many people behind the scenes that are part of that success. The marketing and promotions staff, media relations staff, television and radio staff, ticketing staff, Alumni Association, Academic support staff, Team Makers and others all play a very important role and work extremely hard to support Coach Bohl and the football team to do everything they could to keep the program successful. Certainly Coach Bohl, his assistants and the players were the reason for the success but they were surrounded with a group of very talented and hardworking people.”
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CONGRATULATIONS BISON!
NATIONAL
CHAPIONSHIPS
GENE TAYLOR
you explain the importance of Q: Can an organization like Team Makers
and the role they play in developing a strong athletic program?
A:
“The financial support and energy they bring to the program is critical to our success. As I mentioned above the Team Makers members and volunteers were instrumental in raising and providing enough financial support that allowed our football program to have the success they have had. That financial support was for scholarships and other very important operational needs that directly benefitted the football program.”
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one, I promise! How has Dean Bresciani Q: Last made your life easier as an A.D. and how does
your relationship with him help the University?
A:
“If you are going to have success in an athletic program it is imperative that you have a president that understands and supports the role that athletics plays in a university and is supportive of the Athletic Director, the coaches, staff and, most importantly, the student athletes. President Bresciani is a tremendous supporter of all athletics and our athletes as well as a tremendous supporter of all of our students on campus. We are very fortunate to have such a great president that understands athletics and what it takes to be successful and we would not be achieving the level of success we have had without his support and leadership.”
about Gene Taylor Was hired to be the NDSU Athletic Director in 2001 Voted FCS Central Region AD of the Year in 2008 and 2012 Previously worked at the Naval Academy (19862001), finishing his stint there as the associate athletic director Graduated from Arizona State in 1980
DEAN BRESCIANI
Dean
BRESCIANI Carson Wentz was selected Q: Quarterback by the NCAA to The Elite 89, recognizing
his academic success. Where does NDSU stack up against other major public research universities academically?
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A:
“It is notable, if not exceptional, that our athletic program, from the Athletic Director on down, have so successfully led our achievement of student success in academics with success in athletics, and in that order. What most people don’t know is that our student athletes actually have a higher average GPA than our student body at large, and well over a dozen student athletes every semester achieve perfect 4.0 GPAs. In recent years our athletes have consistently received NCAA academic honors, and twice in the last three years we’ve had athletes as finalists for the NCAA Woman of the Year. Few schools, at any level of the NCAA, can consistently match the academic achievements of our student athletes.”
about
Dean Bresciani Was named the 14th President of NDSU in May 2010 He is from Napa Valley, California Was vice president for student affairs at University of North Carolina from 1998-2004 and held the same role at Texas A&M University from 2004-2008 Graduated from Humboldt State University
DEAN BRESCIANI
Photo by Cory Erickson
does it mean that Q: What NDSU is a Top 108 university?
Can you explain the magnitude of importance that comes with this recognition?
A:
"The only federally coordinated ranking of colleges and universities in the nation is done by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education. In recent years, NDSU has reached their top-tier designation of 'Research University/Very High Research' which in fact is made up of the top 108 (or top 2 percent) of all colleges and universities in the nation." "Why is that important? There are federal and private funding agencies and other top-tier universities that 'only' consider partnerships with institutions in that designation. Simply put, they only want to work with universities that are essentially 'pre-approved' as successful partners. North Dakota has never before had a university reach that prestigious level and NDSU is our state’s sole representative to the group. In other words, NDSU’s designation has opened up what had been previously closed doors for North Dakota… and that represents millions of dollars annually in new, external resources and business partnerships."
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and Gene Taylor have made a lot of appearances Q: You together lately. How fortunate is Bison Nation for having an
athletic director like him?
A:
"Frankly, Gene is one of, if not, the best overall athletic director I’ve worked with in the nine university settings I’ve been a part of. His ability to successfully and in an incredibly short period of time transition NDSU from the NCAA’s Division II to Division I level would be reason enough to say that. But 'how' he has done that, is through the hiring of coaches who can balance the academic and athletic success of our student athletes, to programs which are run in a professional, ethical and violation-free manner as any of the best in the nation, make him singularly the person who should most be credited with where we are today. I’ll throw in that Gene is, on a personal basis, one of the most sincere and genuine people I know; I can’t imagine anyone who knows him saying otherwise."
Bison football team is going through some changes with Q: The coaching. Are there any changes going on around campus
you’d like to tell the readers about?
A:
“As NDSU grows and matures, there will of course be changes in all aspects of the university. What I get most excited about is that while we’ve obviously enjoyed tremendous success with what we’ve had in the past, our new facilities, faculty and leadership are bringing new and exciting potentials we’d have never of dreamed of even just a few years ago. This is an exciting time of change and achievement for NDSU. The people we serve throughout the state are increasingly recognizing the role and contribution we make to the long-term success of our state and our support is growing as a result.”
COACHING PANTHEON
6 coaches 11 trophies 1tradition If you looked up “tradition” in the dictionary, the words “NDSU football” could occupy the space where the conventional definition should be. The importance of tradition runs thick through the veins of every die-hard Bison fan and they recognize five coaches that have become synonymous with the word legend. Winning helped these men sketch their names in the record book, but winning championships solidified their names in this sacred group.
Now, they welcome a sixth member to their elite Pantheon of Coaching...
Article by Madalyn Laske
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Photos by NDSU Athletics
Ron Erhardt
Darrell Mudra pg 118
pg 121
Earle Solomonson
Don Morton
pg 126
pg 125
Rocky Hager pg 130
Craig Bohl pg 134
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COACHING PANTHEON
Darrell Mudra championship season
1965
Years at NDSU 1963-65 (3)
Overall Record
24-6
118
2 Conference Championships
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
“I think Mudra had some unusual characteristics, but one important way he ran his program is he made damn sure he had good assistant coaches.” -Dr. James Sugihara Former Dean of College of Chemistry and Physics, 1964-1972.
N
amed Bison head coach in 1963, Mudra is credited with turning a 0-10 football team around in two years when they finished with a 10-1 record and won their first bowl game defeating Western State 14-13. The Bison went on to notch a perfect 11-0 season the next year, capturing the 1965 Division II National Championship over Grambling College, 20-6. His 1965 team was known as one of the best defensive teams in the country. He finished his career at NDSU with a 24-6 record. Mudra was an atypical coach, who liked to spend the game in the press box rather than on the sidelines. Mudra coached for 27 years at eight universities. NDSU was his second team before leaving for the University of Arizona. He never stayed at any college for very long, his longest being Eastern Illinois between 1978-1982. With exactly 200 career wins, Mudra ranks 73rd on the all-time college football wins list. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Buffalo Wild Wings would like to congratulate the entire football team, Coach Bohl and the staff on being 3-PEAT NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!
Notable Players Bruce Airheart Halfback In the 1964 bowl game, Airheart caught a touchdown pass and rushed for another, eventually being named the game’s MVP. He went on to be drafted by both the NFL and AFL.
Ken Rota Running back Rota was named to the All-North Central Conference team three years in a row and was chosen as the Most Valuable Offensive player in the championship game. In 1967, he was MVP of the Bison football team.
THANK YOU to all the NDSU fans for making Buffalo Wild Wings your Bison Headquarters all season long.
......................................
COACHING PANTHEON
Ron Erhardt championship seasons
1968&1969
Years at NDSU 1966-72 (7) Overall Record
61-7-1
6
Conference Championships
121
COACHING PANTHEON
“At one time, I think he (Erhardt) could have owned the city of Fargo. ...I don’t think anyone could run a football program better than Erhardt.” -Dr. Sugihara Former Dean of College of Chemistry and Physics, 1964-1972.
E
rhardt coached six of his seven Bison football teams to the North Central Conference championships completing three undefeated seasons and earning two national championships (defeating Arkansas State, 23-14 in 1968 and Montana, 30-3 in 1969). Erhardt hailed from Mandan, N.D. and attended Jamestown College before spending two years serving in the military. In 1956, he was hired as assistant coach at Williston High School and head coach at two North Dakota Catholic high schools - St. Mary’s of New England and Bishop Ryan in Minot. He was then hired as head football coach at NDSU and later the athletic director. After NDSU, Erhardt was hired as the New England Patriots backfield coach for four years and moved to offensive coordinator for another four years. In 1982, he was named offensive coordinator of the New York Giants where he won two Super Bowls with the team. After his time with the Giants, he worked as the offensive coordinator of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1996 and helped them reach the Super Bowl. He ended his career in 1998 as an offensive coordinator for the New York Jets.
Now accepting applications: nd.gov/ndhp
Excellent Kristjan Helgoe ‘06 NDSU Alumni
Joe Roller Running back Although Roller was known for his blocking, he racked up 100 yards rushing games against Morningside in 1968 and Northern Arizona in 1969. He played basketball at NDSU as well. He later went on to coach two successful high school teams, New England, N.D. and Devils Lake, N.D. He also had a short stint in the NFL.
Notable Players Paul Hatchett Running back In the 1968 national championship game, Hatchett rushed for over 100 yards and a touchdown in their victory. He was a first team all-American and went down as one of the most feared running backs in Bison history.
Starting Salary Derek Arndt
‘06 NDSU Alumni
Former NDSU Football Player
Bruce Grasamke Quarterback The Bison were 10-0 in both 1968 and 1969 when he quarterbacked. He was named to the All-North Central Conference team in 1969. Grasamke also was on the NDSU men’s golf team in 1967, the year they won the conference title.
COACHING PANTHEON
Don Morton championship season
1983
Years at NDSU 1979-84 (6) Overall Record
57-15
4
Conference Championships
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“I would say Mort is a good friend. Before that, I treated him like the plague. He scared the living crap out of me (laughs). He was scary. He was a guy that demanded authority.”
WAY TO GO BISON FOOTBALL!
- Chad Stark Running Back, 1983-86
D
on Morton finished his Bison career with four conference titles, four playoff appearances, three national championship game appearances and one national title in 1983 when his team defeated Central State University of Ohio 41-21. After beginning his college coaching career at Augustana College, he came to NDSU as an offensive backfield coach and was named head coach in 1979. After NDSU, he went to coach the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes and the Wisconsin Badgers, where he won the Big Ten Conference title in 1987.
Chad Stark Running back Stark started in four national championship games and helped NDSU to three NCAA titles. He was named first team All-North Central Conference and earned All-American honors. He was drafted in the 12th round of the NFL draft to the New York Giants. He went on to play in the CFL and for the SeaHawks.
Notable Players Jeff Bentrim
Quarterback Bentrim won the 1986 Harlon Hill Trophy as the nation’s best player in the NCAA Division II football program. He is a member of the NCAA Division II Football Hall of Fame. He was named first-team All-American and the All-North Central Conference MVP in 1986 and played in four National Championship games, winning three. He went on to play four years in the CFL for the Saskatchewan Roughriders where he won the Grey Cup Championship in 1989.
"Congratulations on another great season!"
COACHING PANTHEON
Earle Solomonson championship seasons
1985&1986
Years at NDSU 1985-86 (2)
Overall Record
24-2-1 126
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2 Conference Championships
COACHING PANTHEON
“We were collaborators at becoming successful... With Earle there was more communication with what could make us better and that certainly worked because he had all these seniors that had been through the fire and knew what to do and knew what it took to get to a national championship so he just gave us the - Chad Stark reigns to continue on that path.” running back, 1983-86
D
uring his two seasons as head coach at NDSU, Solomonson took the Bison to the championship twice claiming a 35-7 victory over North Alabama in 1985 and a 27-7 victory over South Dakota in 1986 to cap an undefeated season. Solomonson was an assistant coach at NDSU for six years before being named head coach for his final two seasons, finishing his time with the Bison with a 8117-1 record. After NDSU, he went on to coach at Montana State University from 1987-1991, where he went 15-40.
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Mike Favor Center Favor was a four-year starter at center for the Bison from 19851988. He was a two-time AllAmerican his junior and seniors season. Favor was also awarded the Most Valuable Offensive Lineman in the North Central Conference his junior and senior seasons.
Notable Players Jim Dick
Linebacker Two-time All-American linebacker who played from 1982-86 for the Bison. Dick holds the NDSU singleseason tackling record with 167 during the 1985 season and ranks second on the career tackles list with 391. He joined the Minnesota Vikings during the 1987 strike year.
Congratulations to NDSU Bison Football You never cease
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COACHING PANTHEON
Rocky Hager championship seasons
1988&1990
Years at NDSU
1987-96 (10)
Overall Record
91-25-1 130
5 Conference Championships
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
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COACHING PANTHEON
“I remember sitting back there in one of my first practices; a couple practices in and Rocky (Hager) was chewing somebody’s butt. And I’m back there like ‘man, what’s he getting on his case for?’ And Dan (Goettl) just said, ‘It’s not how we do things around here. If he wants a two inch step, you better give him a two inch step.’ And he (Hager) kind of set the tone, and that was kind of an eye-opener to me. Maybe that’s why they’ve had this run because everybody pays attention to the little things and they’re on people about that and they don’t let those little things slip.” - Arden Beachy Quarterback, 1989-93
H
Notable Players
A Harvey, N.D. native, Hager coached high school from 1974-1978. He advanced to become defensive coordinator of Morningside College and Augustana College before NDSU. After leaving NDSU, he moved on to coach at Temple University and later became head coach at Northeastern.
Running back The Fargo native, Satter was a dominating force in both the 1988 and 1990 title games for NDSU, including a memorable 70-yard touchdown run in the second half of the ‘88 game to put NDSU in the lead for good. He was a two-time first team AllAmerican, a two-time first team All-North Central Conference and was named in Sports Illustrated’s Top 50 North Dakota Sports Figures in December 1999.
ager topped off the “Decade of the Bison” by notching two championships claiming a 35-21 victory over Portland State in 1988 and a 51-11 victory over Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1990. Hager is the second winningest coach in NDSU history. He had five North Central Conference champion teams and was National Coach of the Year twice.
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Tony Satter
Chris Simdorn Quarterback Simdorn won the Harlon Hill Trophy in 1990 as the nation’s best Division II football player. He was first team All-American, two-time All-North Central Conference first team and the NCC’s offensive MVP in 1990. Simdorn graduated as the leading rusher at NDSU at the time with 3,313 yards and 53 touchdowns. He finished his time at NDSU as a student assistant and went on to coach high school football.
COACHING PANTHEON
Craig Bohl championship seasons
2011 2012 2013 134
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Years at NDSU 2003-13
Overall Record
104-32
4
Conference Championships
POOLS
I
n 2013, Bohl became the winningest football coach in school history with 92 wins. He transformed NDSU football from a Division II program to an elite Division I program in his ten years with the team. NDSU won three consecutive national championships under Bohl’s leadership and won four conference championships. His teams are known for their traditional West Coast offenses and elite defenses. He leaves NDSU with record breaking FargoDome attendance numbers, an undefeated season and tied for the longest winning streak in FCS history. Bohl coached for NDSU under Don Morton as a defensive secondary coach in 1984. After that, he moved on to Division I for 18 seasons with five different universities. Most notably, he was the linebackers coach at Nebraska for eight years and their defensive coordinator for the last three of those years where the team compiled several Top 10 defensive rankings and an 85-18 record. He then became head coach at NDSU in 2003 and next year will assume the head coaching position at the University of Wyoming.
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Notable Players
Tyler Roehl Running back The West Fargo native, hard-nosed running back rushed for over 2,500 career yards, the majority coming in his junior and senior years and received for 540 yards. He went on to be signed by the Seattle Seahawks in 2009. He is now an assistant coach at NDSU, coaching the running backs and tightends.
Joe May Linebacker The tremendous tackler is NDSU’s all time solo tackles leader with 159. Mays led the Bison in total tackles three seasons in a row finishing his Bison career with 285. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2008, traded to Denver in 2010 and now is signed with the Houston Texans.
Steve Walker Quarterback Mr. Reliable is number three on the school’s total offensive leader board with 7,144 yards and threw for 451 in a single game during the 2006 season. Walker was the Great West Football Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2006 leading NDSU to a 10-1 record.
COACHING PANTHEON
“Coach Bohl gave me an opportunity when others didn't, and I'm very appreciative for that. He was a great head coach that knew how to lead a team. I'm grateful for everything he did for me even though he still owes me a round of golf!" - Nick Schommer Defensive Back, 2004-08
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Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
COACH KLIEMAN
Klieman
NEXT IN LINE
THE NEXT HEAD COACH for the Bison football team was gracious enough to take time out of his busy schedule on the recruiting trail to answer a few questions Bison fans were dying to know.
VITALS Coach Klieman Born Sept. 27, 1967 Hometown Waterloo, Iowa
Playing Career Defensive Back, University of Northern Iowa (1986-1990)
Years at NDSU 3 Defensive Coaching Stats 2012-13 Allowed 11.4 points per game Twice was best in the nation in points allowed Defense allowed 245 yards per game
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Missouri State University Defensive Backs Coach
2002-04
University Kansas Defensive Backs Coach
1999
Western Illinois University Defensive Backs Coach
1997
University of Northern Iowa Defensive Backs Coach
1994-96
1991-93
Coaching Timeline Loras College Defensive Coordinator
Vickie Tessin
Dustin Ihry
Kim Storlie
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20130114 Bison Illustrated_half page.indd 1
1/17/14 3:58 PM
COACH KLIEMAN The fans are excited about your hiring. Anything you want to say to them? “Thank you for your support in 2013! The energy, enthusiasm and passion you brought to game day each week was incredible. You are truly the 12th Bison and your encouragement means the world to us. From the opening kickoff at Kansas State when a sea of yellow clad Bison fans dominated the endzone bleachers, all the way through Frisco when 18,000 of Bison Nation’s finest packed Toyota Stadium, you had our backs. I can’t tell you how much that means to our student-athletes and coaches.”
How is your team going to replace all the talent lost from last year’s team?
rebuild…we reload. We have a hungry group of players and coaches working hard to prepare for 2014. Your expectations haven’t changed and neither have ours. True champions don’t look back… they stay hungry.”
What is this team most looking forward to this upcoming season? “We can’t wait to raise that championship banner next September and see you back at Gate City Bank Field! The Strength of the Herd is the Bison. And the Strength of the Bison is the Herd.”
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, at NDSU we don’t
Archive: #24 Bryan Shepherd on Coach Klieman
B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • F E B RUA RY 2 014
North Dakota State University Defensive Coordinator
Present
14 0
North Dakota State University Defensive Backs Coach
2012-13
Loras College Head Coach
2011
University of Northern Iowa Defensive Backs Coach
2005
2006-10
“I love that guy. He really brought out the love of the game for me even more. ...He made me understand the game a lot more and made me a much better football player. He’s the best coach, I’d like to say.”
North Dakota State University Head Coach
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THE GREATS
14 2
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QUAD SQUAD of a record-setting group of high-profile seniors, a group that reeled off a jaw dropping 43–2 record and three straight national championships, North Dakota State’s reign at the top of the Football Championship Subdivision isn’t over. Until someone beats the king, we’ve got the crown and Frisco is our kingdom.
F EAR NOT Frisco Chamber of Commerce. Rest easy, Mayor Maher Maso, the top Bison booster in the Lone Star State. Six Flags Tailgating, update your GPS so you don’t get lost along the I-29 corridor again next year. And, to the staff at Third Base Sports Bar, you can bank on your usually full tip jars that first weekend come January 2015. No joke, those folks like us so much, they joined Team Makers. Your cash cow, or, more appropriately, your cash Bison, aren’t going anywhere, not just yet. Despite the graduation
New head coach you say? Please, the United States changed presidents in the middle of WWII and stayed the course. Just ask the Axis powers how that turned out. Well, what about the loss of those 24 seniors, including studs like Brock Jensen, Billy Turner, Cole Jirik, Grant Olson, Marcus Williams, et. al. You think Colton Heagle, Carlton Littlejohn, Travis Beck, Christian Dudzik and the rest of their senior class is content with three titles and plan on finishing anywhere short of that stage at Toyota Stadium. Okay, fine. But, come on, Swany. Four in a row? Four in a row?! Nobody’s done that before. It can’t be
done. To that I say, true, nobody has done it before. But there’s always a first for everything. If there’s anything we’ve learned the last few years, it’s that we aren’t like everybody else. We’re the Catalina Wine Mixer of the Football Championship Subdivision. We’re ESPN’s darlings, the poster boys of middle-America, like Top Gun without the planes. We’re practically best friends with Kirk Herbstreit, Chris Fowler, Lee Corso and Desmond Howard. ESPN sideline reporter Cara Capuano has become an honorary Fargoian. Heck, how many Twitter followers pounding #NDSU does Lee Fitting have? How many other college football fan bases even know who Lee Fitting is! We’re the folks everyone else loves to hate because we’re that good. Don’t bet against the Bison getting back to Frisco. NDSU returns a solid nucleus of savvy, battletested veterans mixed with many promising younger players that have the talent to add another year to the banners hanging in the Fargodome end zone. The Herd returns 14
starters, six on offense, six on defense and both kicking specialists. That’s nearly two-thirds of our starting lineup from the championship game. Add to that another 18 guys who played snaps against Towson. And make no mistake, new head coach Chris Klieman and his staff won’t be pulling back on the reins. Oh yeah, did I mention Director of Athletic Performance, a.k.a strength and conditioning coach/ guru Jim Kramer, isn’t going anywhere? This isn’t to say the road in 2014 will be as smooth as 2013 appeared to be. No two seasons are the same. All three of our FCS titles were won with different teams and different personalities. In last year’s championship edition of Bison Illustrated, I told you there were ten keys to NDSU getting back to Frisco and establishing our dynasty. The Swami ain’t got nothing on the Swany, man. Dynasty established. I was spot on with every single key. To continue our rule on the throne, and earn the title The Quad Squad, I’ll keep it to five keys for 2014.
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QUAD SQUAD
JIM KRAMER
This guy deserves as much credit for NDSU’s championship run as any player or coach. Remember Kansas State when Big 12 players were keeling over in the August heat during the fourth quarter? Not the Bison. The Bison were the better team thanks in large part to Kramer. While the Bison adjust to a new coaching staff, Kramer will provide consistency and help smooth any transition. The fact the Bison were able to keep Kramer from following the former coaching staff to Wyoming was as big of a get as any recruit the Bison signed this offseason.
NUTRITION
Ignition
THE RAMS
It’s cliché, but the best friend of a new, untested quarterback is a strong running game. The Rams have imposed their will on imposing defenses in recent years. This is one position group where NDSU has traditionally been able to reload rather than rebuild. Five players return with starting experience on the O-line, including Joe Haeg, Zack Johnson and Josh Colville. Added to the mix are fullback Andrew Bonnet, tight end Kevin Vaadeland who was awarded another year of eligibility by the NCAA and running back John Crockett. A strong rushing attack should help the new quarterback get his feet underneath him headed into conference play.
ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL
Outside the quarterback position, the biggest gap the Bison have to address is the defensive line, particularly in the interior. The Bison boasted one of the top, if not the top, defensive lines in the FCS during the last three championship runs. The stifling Bison defense starts with a strong D-line. Big parts of the most talented D-line in school history in Cole Jirik, Leevon Perry, Ryan Drevlow and Danny Luecke are gone. If the Bison want another title in 2014, they’ll need young talent, and maybe some JUCO’s (Junior College transfers) to step up in manning this wall.
QUARTERBACK #1
Jensen, the winningest quarterback in Division I history, is gone. Into the void steps promising junior Carson Wentz. He has big shoes to fill. Wentz was highly touted out of high school, so much so, the Bison moved another highly touted Bismarck quarterback, Esley Thorton, to linebacker. Wentz heads into spring ball as their apparent QB #1. The Bison defense is good enough by itself to make the playoffs. Making the playoffs isn’t the goal, though, winning is. If NDSU wants to return to Frisco, we’ll need big things from QB #1.
CLIMBIN’ WITH KLIEMAN
How Klieman adjusts from his role as defensive coordinator to head coach will play a large role in whether the Bison make it back to Frisco. Klieman has built a strong staff and has already developed a strong connection with his players on both sides of the ball. Any learning curve in his new job will have to be fast with early season matchups against Iowa State and Montana testing the Bison.
800
BRIAN
SHAWN
U O Y DID
? W O N K
WITH BRIAN SHAWN What som guys play weit makes you h
HURT There’s no doubting the toughness of college football players, but what some Bison football players have to go through during a full-season of popping the pads is downright mind-boggling.
Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography By Brian Shawn
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Brian Shawn is the play-by-play announcer for the Bison football and basketball teams.
E
ven as a broadcaster, an entire football season can be grueling. I looked back at the last three years and could not believe how many Saturdays between September and January were spent on North Dakota State University football. 15 games in 2011, 15 more in 2012 and add 15 on top of that in 2013 and you can see, that’s a lot of football to cover. As fans and even media members, some of us have spent more time in the fall with Marcus Williams, Brock Jensen or Billy Joe Bob the Bison fanatic, than our own spouses (It’s not our fault if they don’t want to tailgate, right?). But hey, that’s us. We don’t have to practice and we don’t have to play, yet we have had the chance to enjoy the magic carpet ride to Frisco, Texas the past few years. The time that we put in is milliseconds compared to the time the players have put in. The preparation begins long before fall camp. It actually started at this time last year. Players were already working out with NDSU strength and conditioning coordinator Jim Kramer, trying to get that third straight national title and become only the second team in FCS history to go undefeated. Putting the time in is one thing, playing through pain is another. Several former and current players have told me that after the first game of the season, no one plays at 100 percent the rest of the year. You have to find a way to get through the season with soreness, bruises, bumps, tears, pulls and everything in between.
On Saturdays, we all show up expecting the Bison to steamroll opponents, but it’s not that simple. You can have all the talent in the world, but what’s more important is your toughness. To win 43 out of 45 games, good players still have to play at a high level every week. But would it surprise you that a lot of those playmakers that showed up and got the job done had significant injuries that made it difficult to perform? Would you even be able to tell who some of those guys were? Some of you certainly could, but for others, it would not be easy to see or even … forget. Travis Beck played with a dislocated shoulder that was popping out like a spring all season, Grant Olson and Jeremy Gordon played with ACL tears, while Billy Turner and Marcus Williams played with broken hands. Even the kicker, Adam Keller, is nursing a bum hip. Close to a dozen others had torn labrums in their shoulders that all required surgery after the season (Cole Jirik actually had both shoulders repaired) and who knows for sure how many more ailments players were dealing with that they never made public or we never knew about. When the team was honored at halftime of the NDSU men’s basketball game, players walked out on the court wearing slings, knee braces and casts. Finally, after playing weeks with injuries and battling through the rigors of the FCS playoffs, they finally had a chance to get fixed up, even if it is only for a couple of months until the shoulder pads go back on for spring drills.
STEVE WALKER
STEVE WALKER'S HOT STOVE Steve Walker started 36 games as quarterback for the Bison between 2004 - 2007.
2013 IN REVIEW
Looking back on the 2013 Bison football season produced many great memories. Successful road trips to Kansas and Frisco, phenomenal individual performances and invites to various college all-star games, including the NFL Combine. The list goes on and on. And let’s not forget the best of them all: a third FCS National Championship in a row. I was trying to decide what my favorite part of watching this year’s team was, but I could not pick just one. Here is a recap of my favorite memories:
UPSETTING MANHATTAN
Another “favored” FBS team bites the dust! Opening the season with a come-from-behind win over the defending Big 12 Champions may be the biggest win in program history, outside of the eleven national championship victories. Seeing the emotions of the players after this win was amazing, but watching the reaction of Head Coach Craig Bohl was even better. With his past experiences coaching against Kansas State, I don’t think anyone realized just how big of a win this was other than him.
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BEST OF THE BEST Running the table in undoubtedly the best and most physical conference in all of FCS football is a daunting challenge. Yet, that is exactly what the 2013 Bison did. The Missouri Valley Football Conference is the toughest conference to play an unbeaten season through, because top-to-bottom the conference is stacked with talented athletes. It is unfortunate that only two teams got into the playoffs, but the best team prevailed, taking home another championship ring and banner.
THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION If running the table in the MVFC is a tough challenge, try doing it throughout the entire field of FCS teams. The Bison were up to the challenge. Led by a group of 24 dedicated seniors, a wonderful group of underclassmen and a great coaching staff, the 2013 Bison did what hasn’t been done since the Randy Moss-led Marshall team.
SAYING GOODBYE TO THE SENIOR CLASS The last four years have seen some of the best football that has come through North Dakota State University. Was this senior class the best to ever come through NDSU? That question can be debated all day long, but they are certainly worthy of consideration. Thank you to all the seniors that made it such a great time to be a Bison fan!
2014
LOOKING FORWARD
Is the cupboard bare after losing 24 seniors, a head coach and several assistant coaches? HECK NO! The underclassmen who will become the leaders of the 2014 Bison have learned a great deal from those who departed. Experience, leadership, teamwork and most importantly BISON PRIDE! When you look up and down the depth chart for this coming season, there are a lot of names that people will recognize who have a lot of game-time experience. They know what it takes to win. New Head Coach Chris Klieman is the new man running the show for the Thundering Herd, and he has put together another great staff of coaches to mold the 2014 Bison into what looks to be a great football team. Coaches come and coaches go, and that is even more common at the FCS level, but Gene Taylor has been great at finding talent to keep the momentum going. As a mentor of mine says frequently, “When you look to hire someone, hire someone that is better than you.” I am a believer that when Coach Bohl brought on Coach Klieman a few years ago, he was doing just that. As fans, let’s remember the greatness of the 2013 Bison, and look forward to watching the 2014 Bison continue to raise the bar of excellence here at NDSU.
RETIREMENT TENDS TO BE LESS TIRED IN THE WEST. GO WEST.
TEAM
MAKERS
Exceeding Goals - The New Norm! GREETINGS
Team Maker faithful and Bison Nation throughout the land! After closing out a fantastic 2013 Team Makers fund drive year and looking back on 2013 Bison athletics and academics, one reoccurring theme seems prevalent – the new norm appears to be not only achieving goals, but exceeding them! As is now well known by all Bison fans that intently watched the seemingly fan-expected third annual FCS Championship Game and resulting trophy presentation, the goals of the 2013 football team were simply stated: go undefeated throughout the regular season and win a third consecutive national championship. After a season defining comeback win over 2012 Big 12 Champion Kansas State and two follow-up wins (combined score of 107-10), the Bison entered Missouri Valley Conference play. While they finished with an 8-0 conference record which met the team goal, a closer look at the final conference statistics show another level of team performance: MVFC - No. 1 scoring offense, No. 1 scoring defense, No. 1 total offense and No. 1 total defense.
“While Team Makers leadership and members throughout are to be congratulated on achieving a fund raising milestone, the hard work continues.”
Each of the four playoff opponents certainly earned their way into postseason play based on excellent seasons within their own right, but the outcome was the same as the Bison dominated throughout, winning by an average margin of 33 points per game! A quick perspective of the season was probably best provided by Towson coach Rob Ambrose after the grass-impaired championship game, who said, “I have to give credit to coach [Craig] Bohl, his program, his players, his staff and North Dakota State’s fans. They are undefeated for a reason. They are one, and they are perfect.” Given such, even the most skeptical of Bison fans would have to agree that the 2013 Bison team goals were not only achieved, but exceeded in a focused and dominant fashion. With the players and staff getting it done on the field, it should also be noted that the 12th man and all of Bison Nation continue to represent and 1 52
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roam in legendary fashion. While there wasn’t exactly an annual goal of participation defined by a consensus of Bison Nation, it could be contended that interest (70 viewing sites for Championship game as arranged by Alumni Association) and opportunities (ESPN’s College GameDay) throughout the season exceeded anyone’s wildest dream. Further evidence was apprehensively provided by the Towson Athletic Director, who said they were a little miffed in returning to their hotel after Friday evening’s Championship practice to find the lobby and elevators of THEIR hotel so full of Bison fans that the Towson players and staff were unable to function as they had hoped when booking THEIR hotel. It seemed to be taken in stride by the Towson players, as they were all seen taking pictures and videos of the green and gold barrage. Almost as impressive as the 2013 football season in review, was the performance of Team Makers members throughout the 2013 fund drive. During one of the first years where the incentives to join and support Team Makers were severely hampered by the lack of available season tickets and reserved tailgating spots for football, membership was still able to attain substantial growth. This was done by promoting emerging incentives (i.e. priority points) and by staying the course with a consistent message as provided with our mission statement: “To provide financial support, promotion and spirit for our student athletes and to the NDSU Athletic Department in order to achieve excellence.”
The outcome of the well-orchestrated annual campaign showed eye-popping financial growth and increased membership! The 2013 fund drive goal was $2.84 million; the actual amount banked went over the $3 million mark for the first time in Team Makers history and finished at $3.1 million! An additional recent goal of 2,000 members was also surpassed as membership numbers finished strong at 2,264! While Team Makers leadership and members throughout are to be congratulated on achieving a fund raising milestone, the hard work continues. With an actual athletic scholarship bill of $3.7 million, Team Makers will most certainly be asked throughout the 2014 Fund Drive campaign to continue the momentum created in 2013 and maintain the new norm of establishing goals and then, using all assets, exceeding them. Best of luck to all student athletes, both within your athletic field and in the classroom. Go Bison! (Additional note: Does anyone else out there see a correlation between the state of Colorado legalizing marijuana and the poor grass conditions on the Championship field? Where have all the good “grass” growers gone?) *Ludlum is the Vice President and Chair of Fundraising for 2014 for Team Makers.
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13 fourth quarter points all season. But you remember how you felt when Colton Heagle blocked that field goal in the championship game and Kyle Emanuel scooped it up, racing 59 yards towards the end zone with Ryan Smith scoring the next play to give us a 14–7 lead. You also didn’t remember that we trailed 10–0 at Southern Illinois with 1:30 left in the first half before Brock Jensen hit Zach Vraa for a 55-yard touchdown pass and we went on to score the next 24 points to win 31–10. But you’ll never forget that feeling of pure elation – those high fives and hugs – when the clock hit 0:00 and we were, for the third time in as many years, champions.
PERFECTION is more than just a number.
T
here’s not a better team in America, any division, any sport. From sea to shining sea, no one dominated the competition like the North Dakota State football team did this year on the way to our third straight national championship. No other team, with the exception of Florida State, was close to the level of perfection reached by our Bison. Try to name another. You’d have better luck winning the lottery, finding Big Foot, and being struck by lightning on the same day. The level of excellence this team achieved goes far beyond the 15–0 record that will be remembered in the history books. Their perfection was more than just a number. There was something about this team, something about Bison Nation that you can’t even begin to quantify with numbers alone. How do you put a number on that 104 degree day in Manhattan, Kansas when our Bison took down defending Big 12 champion Kansas State, a team that went on to dismantle Michigan – yes, the “hail to the victors” Michigan – in their bowl game? How do you quantify that feeling of pride when ESPN’s College GameDay made our Bison and Fargo the capital of the college football world? How do you put a number on Grant Olson playing with a torn ACL or Leevon Perry housing that fumble for a touchdown against New Hampshire? You can’t, nor should you try.
“Perfection was what this team brought out in each other, what this team brought out in our University.”
The numbers and statistics from this season will eventually fade into memory as numbers almost always do. But this team, this season, will never fade from our memory. How could it? One of the biggest misconceptions about history is that it’s a set of dates and numbers to be memorized. Nothing could be further from the truth. History isn’t just a date or a number. It’s something we live. We don’t remember 1776 because of a number. We remember it as the birth of our nation and the ideas of democracy, equality, and freedom that are an integral part of each of us. Few can tell you the significance of July 20, 1969 standing by itself. But everyone knows the famous words uttered that day, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” and what it means. There are a precious few times in our lives, in our collective experience, where we are so united in purpose that for a few moments, however fleeting, we experience perfection. We experience something beyond ourselves. History is a collective sense of who we are, where we’ve been, and ultimately, where we are going. We lived in that moment all season long with this team. Flipping through the pages of this magazine, you aren’t focused on the numbers. Looking back on this year, you probably didn’t know that our defense allowed only 154
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When you think about the Bison Family and what it means to you, when you think about the pride that you have for our program, you don’t think about numbers. When I think about the Bison Family and what it means to me, I think about the feeling of pride I have for this University and the people I get to share that with – all of you. It’s the people. It’s the “Let’s Go Bison” cheer. It’s everyone raising the Bison horns. It’s seeing thousands of friends, old and new, in Frisco. It’s every earsplitting third down inside the Fargodome. It’s all these things and all those moments in between. From our players and their parents, the Team Makers, our supporters and fans, the staff and behind the scenes people that have been the stewards of our program since the 1960s, to everyone who identifies themselves as a Bison, we are the Bison Family. It’s that collective experience, that collective pride and love we have for this program and University, and the people we share it with. It’s a sense of who we are, what we stand for, where we’ve been and where we’re going. Bison Pride has never been greater because the Bison Family has never been stronger.
This team brought that out in us. Not because of their 15–0 record, but because of what Bison Pride meant to them. Because of how they worked for the perfect season, that relentless pursuit and singular focus, that team unity, the team character, the sense of family. Perfection wasn’t 15–0 by itself. Perfection was what this team brought out in each other, what this team brought out in our University, and what that meant to our community and state. This team allowed us to experience perfection and to share in that feeling as the Bison Family. As the sun shined overhead in the Texas sky, the Herd soundly defeated Towson 35–7 and raised our 11th national championship trophy, putting the exclamation point on an unforgettable season. It was a postcard moment on that now familiar stage in Frisco with the Bison Nation, nearly 18,000 strong who made the trip from all corners of our country for this family reunion. Bison flags waived high and confetti showered down on the scene. Added to that were the hundreds of thousands more gathered around televisions nationwide, surrounded by others in green and yellow, that were with us in spirit. It was, in a word, perfect.
Everyone up for the kickoff, the march is on! *Swanson is a native of Maddock, ND, a proud NDSU alum and is a life-long Bison fan.
congrats to “THE HERD”
on another great season
TODD Kadrmas
Proud Team Maker Way to go Bison!
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701-239-2208 tksellsfmhomes@yahoo.com 2521 S. University Dr., Fargo, ND 58103
POP QUIZ
Pop
Quiz
Carson Wentz
zach vraa
colten heagle
Wentz has waited patiently behind quarterback Brock Jensen for the past two seasons and has everyone in Bison Nation excited to see what he will bring to the table.
Vraa became a star this past season becoming Brock Jensen’s favorite target on his way to breaking the school record in single-season receiving touchdowns (15).
Heagle became a household name during his red shirt freshman season and continues to get bigger, laying the wood to ball carriers one play at a time.
Who in your position group helped you most when you came to NDSU?
Brock and Esley helped me learn a lot about the game and Dante Perez helped me grow in my faith tremendously.
Warren Holloway
Cyrus Lemon
Favorite notfootball related thing about going to Frisco?
The Thursday night event and all the games.
The shower heads in our hotel rooms.
Playing flag football with the kids from the Miracle League..
What area do you want to improve this offseason?
Leadership and being consistent with my fundamentals.
Overall speed. Specifically speed in and out of breaks.
With bison football players
Favorite song to warm up to?
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I listen to a lot of Christian rock/ worship music pregame. No favorites.
GET HEALTHY!!!
Pop “Till I Collapse” Eminem. It’s been on my playlist since HS and it never fails.
“Call Me Maybe” (Devin Klieman’s favorite song.)
christian dudzik
carlton littlejohn
Kyle Emanuel
CJ Smith
Dudzik led the Bison defense with six interceptions this season and continues to be a threat in the return game, bringing back two punt returns for touchdowns this season.
Filling in for an injured Grant Olson, Littlejohn slid to the middle from his outside linebacker position this year and uses his athleticism to stop both the run and the pass.
With a team leading 7.5 sacks this season, Emanuel brings the pressure to opposing quarterbacks coming off the edge for the Bison defense.
Smith filled in for an injured Brendin Pierre this season and has emerged as a prolific pass defender at the corner back position, intercepting three passes.
Mike Hardie. When I first came to NDSU I was a linebacker before being switched to defensive end and he really helped me through the transition.
Marcus Williams and Brendin Pierre helped me the most over my first couple years as a Bison.
The Thursday night event was fun. Free food, video games and bowling along with being with my teammates. It was a great time.
My favorite nonfootball thing about going to Frisco is probably getting out of the cold weather.
Colten Heagle. He was my roommate freshman year, and he seemed to know all the answers to my questions.
Brandon Jemison helped me the most my first year.
Thursday night. I looked forward to going to the pre-events every year and I was sad when it was over. I love playing arcade games and bowling with my teammates because they’re all so competitive like me.
The weather is my favorite thing. 50 degrees feels a lot better than -20.
Taking advantage of every opportunity to get an interception. I dropped a few last year as any fan will tell you.
I want to improve my leadership ability because I want to be able to help the younger players as much as possible.
There’s always room to improve in the weight room and making sure I’m in the best possible shape for the season.
p Quiz I can’t really name any single one as my favorite. I like instrumental and hip hop.
“Legacy” by Eminem
“Crash Into Me” by Dave Mathews Band. It relaxes me and pumps me up at the same time.
This off-season I want to improve my knowledge for the game the most.
Favorite song to warm up to: anything by Drake.
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