BROOKINGS, S.D. (KELO) — The South Dakota State football team has something to prove for the first time in years, and the Jackrabbits believe last year’s disappointment could be what pushes them back into national title contention.

The Jackrabbits have won two national titles in the last five years. Those expectations haven’t changed, even with last season’s second round exit.

“There’s only so many programs that can say that they have a realistic opportunity to win a national title every year and that is a fun motivator and it’s really a reason why we all do it,” Head Coach Dan Jackson said.

Jackson believes last year wasn’t the beginning of a decline, but instead a reminder of what built the program in the first place. Years of adversity, growth and a blue collar culture that made winning championships possible.

“Last year’s roster hadn’t experienced any adversity. Now they understand what that feels like and they don’t ever want to feel that again,” Jackson said.

This lesson resonated with graduate quarterback Chase Mason, who after working his way back from injury, says the setbacks became an opportunity to grow physically and mentally.

“I think that really brought my football IQ level and my game to a whole ‘nother level. When I came back I felt more comfortable and I think I really took a step forward instead of taking a step back,” Mason said.

Mason enters this year as a captain once again, saying his role has evolved from leading with his play to leading with his voice.

“I’ve been been more of a lead by example type person but the more I’ve grown the last couple years I’ve been able to get more vocal with guys,” Mason said.

Senior defensive lineman Logan Green says the growth wasn’t limited to one player. He believes the team’s leadership group learned what it takes to keep the championship standard in tact.

“When it kind of hit the fan of like, well we’re not winning these games what’s going on? Then you really have to, you know, evaluate what you’re doing as a leader because it starts up front with you as the team leader, and we got to make sure that everyone’s better,” Green said.

The Jacks open the 2026 season on August 29th at home against Stetson.

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