In a thrilling development for South Dakota sports enthusiasts, South Dakota State University (SDSU), home to the revered Jackrabbits, announced the addition of twelve promising mid-year transfers to their 2025 football roster. Head coach Dan Jackson expressed excitement about this influx of talent, stating, “I feel great about the people that we brought in equally as much as the player. I’ve been really impressed with how these transfers have already fit in with the culture and our previous players in building relationships. They’re hungry, they’re motivated, and they’re trying to prove to the team and the program what they can do. I’ve been really excited about the start they’ve had.”

South Dakota State is proud to welcome these diverse athletes who are set to bring fresh strength and expertise to the successful Jackrabbits. A team that ended the 2024 season with a significant 12-3 record and a shared Missouri Valley Football Conference title, the Jackrabbits are gearing up to extend their legacy into 2025.

The New Additions: A Comprehensive Look

Let’s delve into the background of the twelve transfers who are ready to make their mark on South Dakota’s renowned football landscape:

• Koby Bretz from Omaha, Nebraska, a one-season-remaining safety from Nebraska, is noteworthy for his strong defensive prowess, having registered notable tackles in the past seasons.
• Graham Eben from Rock Rapids, Iowa, a safety/linebacker, holds four years of eligibility. His impressive tenure at Iowa and a high school journey marked by state titles reflect his potential contribution.
• Max Elrod of Sioux Falls, a defensive lineman, brings his expertise and four remaining years of eligibility from the University of Sioux Falls. His notable prep career at Harrisburg High attests to his capabilities.
• Isaiah Garcia-Castaneda from Twentynine Palms, California, a wide receiver, previously led Nebraska in punt returns, embracing his final year of eligibility with the Jackrabbits with vigor.
• Matt Goehring from Sioux Falls, a linebacker who shined at the University of Sioux Falls, stands out for his academic prowess and impactful field presence.
• Reese Osgood from Franklin, Wisconsin, a wide receiver with two seasons remaining, was honored as an Academic All-Big Ten, underscoring his dual commitment to sports and academics.
• John Pica from Dell Rapids, an offensive lineman, arrives with accolades from the Great Plains Athletic Conference, bringing determination and two seasons of eligibility.
• Jackson Powers from Maple Grove, Minnesota, a defensive back, partakes in the Jackrabbits with three years left, touting a history of being part of a championship-winning high school team.
• Brody Targgart from Ankeny, Iowa, a defensive lineman, noted for his strong defensive records at Iowa Western, is ready to tackle new challenges at SDSU.
• James “Tak” Tateoka from Waukesha, Wisconsin, a quarterback celebrated on the Jerry Rice Award Watch List, joins with two seasons of eligibility and a strong leadership ethos.
• Jalyn Thompson from West Des Moines, Iowa, a tight end, adds strength to the SDSU formation with his remarkable three-time football lettering from high school.
• Nate White from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a multifaceted running back/receiver, lauded during his high school career, enters SDSU with three seasons of eligibility eager to diversify the team’s offensive strategy.

This blend of fresh talent and seasoned prowess positions South Dakota State University’s football team as a formidable force aiming for continued success in collegiate championships.

South Dakota’s Sporting Legacy

South Dakota is no stranger to sporting triumphs and community-driven victories. The state prides itself on fostering a vibrant athletic culture, with the SDSU Jackrabbits being a quintessential part of it. As the team embarks on another promising season, they do so under the rallying shouts of local supporters and an indomitable spirit for which the plains are known.

This transfer cycle is a testament to South Dakota’s commitment to fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive and bring both pride and passion to its historic fields.

Anticipation for the 2025 Season

With the 2025 season on the horizon, SDSU fans eagerly anticipate how these transfers will integrate with existing players to enhance the team’s dynamic. The prospect of adding new accolades to their resume fills South Dakota with renewed hope and excitement. As they march toward another thrilling season, the Jackrabbits aim not only to secure more victories but to build a lasting legacy in collegiate sports.