South Dakota State Takes a Breather Before Confrence Play

A few special things happened around the #9 South Dakota State football team this week, and they weren't just about X's and O's.

In the Jackrabbits 41-3 win over Wisconsin-Oshkosh last Saturday night, head coach John Stiegelmeier moved into first place on the school's all-time win list with 114 career victories, and then this week running back Zach Zenner was named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team for his off-the-field contributions to the community.

I asked coach Stiegelmeier about the two honors:

BROOKINGS, SD - SEPTEMBER 20: Jason Schneider #83 from South Dakota State hauls in a touchdown pass while being brought down by Anthony Fassett #25 from Wisconsin-Oshkosh in the first half of their game Saturday at Coughlin Alumni Stadium in Brookings. (Photo by Dave Eggen/Inertia)

As for the game against Division III Oshkosh, it was just what the Jackrabbits needed: an easy win, no new injuries, and a chance to get some reserves some playing time.

Coach Stiegelmeier says the key was a fast start:

Now it's a week off before the opening of league play, and coach Stiegelmeier says there are still plenty of things to accomplish, even during an open week on the schedule: