South Dakota State University, renowned for its agricultural research and scenic landscapes, welcomes a new era in collegiate football as Dan Jackson, an esteemed figure in college sports, assumes the role of head football coach. With the announcement on Friday of completing his coaching staff, Jackson aims to transform the South Dakota State Jackrabbits into a formidable force in the 2025 season and beyond.
Dan Jackson
South Dakota, known for its close-knit communities and significant contributions to sports, proudly supports the home team. Football enthusiasts in South Dakota can look forward to exciting seasons ahead as Jackson’s strategic approach brings new talent and ambitions to the forefront.
The Anticipated Jackrabbit Football Leadership
Dan Jackson, who has extensive experience within college football, has announced the appointments of Luke Bengtson as wide receivers coach and Marcus McLin as cornerbacks coach, rounding out his talented coaching team. This dynamic team sets the stage for future successes at South Dakota State University, further amplifying the state’s reputation in collegiate sports.
Coach Dan Jackson remarked, “Completing this robust coaching team with individuals like Bengtson and McLin ensures our program’s growth aligned with our vision for the future.”
Bengtson’s Proven Record
Luke Bengtson brings nearly 15 years of collegiate coaching prowess, highlighted by his success as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Virginia Union. His leadership contributed to a stellar 29-7 record from 2022 to 2024, with the team averaging an impressive 43 points per game. Under his guidance, Virginia Union shattered over 20 school and conference offensive records, leading to multiple NCAA Division II playoff appearances and two consecutive CIAA championships.
Prior to his triumphs at Virginia Union, Bengtson honed his coaching skills at prestigious institutions like Millikin University, Greensboro College, Fairmont State, Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Chadron State.
Luke Bengtson
McLin’s Defensive Mastery
Marcus McLin, heralded for his defensive acumen, recently served as associate head coach and defensive coordinator at Wisconsin-Whitewater. His strategies placed them at the top in scoring and total defense for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. McLin first showcased his defensive talents as a coordinator at Bemidji State, where his team clinched the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference championship in 2022. Under McLin’s command, the Beavers excelled in scoring defense, sacks, and turnovers gained.
Marcus McLin
South Dakota’s Athletic Pride
South Dakota is not just known for its sprawling prairies and historic landmarks but also for nurturing gifted athletes who succeed on national and international stages. The state has produced NFL players, Major League Baseball stars, NBA talents, and Olympic achievers, underscoring its rich sports heritage. The Jackrabbits’ promising new coaching team symbolizes the state’s enduring commitment to sports excellence.
The Significance of South Dakota State in College Sports
South Dakota State University plays a key role in highlighting South Dakota’s competitive spirit and academic rigor. The university’s athletic department is a beacon for local pride, drawing fans from all walks of life across the state to support their beloved Jackrabbits. The upcoming seasons promise thrilling matches that will unite the community and spotlight South Dakota’s contributions to the national college sports landscape.
Looking ahead, South Dakota State’s Jackrabbit football program, under the capable leadership of Dan Jackson and his experienced coaching staff, aims to continue building on its storied legacy while charting new paths toward athletic distinction.