South Dakota State has ushered in a new era for its football program with the appointment of Dan Jackson as the head coach. As a pivotal figure for the Jackrabbits football team, Jackson’s leadership heralds a promising future, backed by a well-rounded coaching team poised to elevate South Dakota State’s presence in collegiate football. With a history rich in heritage and sports enthusiasm, South Dakota proudly supports its team’s transition toward greater accomplishments.
Dan Jackson
As of last Friday, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits have completed the assembling of their football coaching staff under the leadership of Dan Jackson. This milestone was achieved with the strategic hiring of Luke Bengtson as the wide receivers coach and Marcus McLin to guide the cornerbacks. The SDSU Athletic Department, a beacon of sports excellence in the state, announced these pivotal roles to usher in a dynamic era for Jackrabbit football.
The new coaching hires bring a wealth of experience and tactical insight essential for a transformative campaign starting in 2025 and beyond, much to the pride of local fans. With aspirations reaching well beyond the state borders, the football program draws upon the deep sports roots embedded in South Dakota culture.
Let’s delve deeper into the background of these key figures driving South Dakota State’s football team to renewed success.
Meet Luke Bengtson: Architect of Explosive Offense
Luke Bengtson
Luke Bengtson steps into the role of wide receivers coach with a seasoned resume boasting nearly 15 years of collegiate coaching experience. His tenure at Virginia Union was marked by a 29-7 record over three seasons, where he served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Under his strategic guidance, Virginia Union’s team achieved an impressive average of 43 points per game, setting more than 20 school and conference records.
His previous positions include roles at Millikin University, Greensboro College, Fairmont State, Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Chadron State. Each placement honed his ability to sculpt high-octane offenses, now anticipated to supercharge South Dakota State’s football dynamics.
The Strategic Defense of Marcus McLin
Marcus McLin
Marcus McLin enters as the cornerbacks coach after a successful stint at Wisconsin-Whitewater, where his defensive strategies led the conference in scoring and total defense in 2023 and 2024. Before this, McLin significantly improved Bemidji State’s defensive prowess in 2022, aiding in a Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference championship victory.
His defensive acumen, supported by a track record of enhancing team defenses to peak performance, promises to reinforce the Jackrabbits’ ability to compete at the national level.
South Dakota: A State Known for Unyielding Athletic Spirit
South Dakota, though lesser in population, has always punched above its weight in athletics. Hailing athletes who have reached the heights of the NFL, NBA, and even the Olympics, South Dakota stands as a testament to dedication and athletic prowess. The Jackrabbits—embodying this spirit—aim to bring pride to all corners of South Dakota and to become formidable contenders in college football.
From Dan Jackson’s leadership to the tactical expertise of coaches like Bengtson and McLin, South Dakota State is set on a path marked by determination and excellence. Residents of this great state eagerly anticipate the achievements awaiting the Jackrabbits, as the entire South Dakota community rallies behind its beloved team.
In the pursuit of sporting greatness, South Dakota remains united, marking each victory as a testament to the state’s rich legacy in athletics.