Preseason Outlook for the Hawks
The latest Missouri Valley Football Conference preseason poll places the University of North Dakota fourth among its nine league members, trailing only South Dakota State, Illinois State and Youngstown State. South Dakota State earned 28 first‑place votes, while Illinois State, the national runner‑up from last season, received three. UND collected two first‑place votes, matching the total of its in‑state rival, South Dakota.
Adding to the optimism, the Hawks’ preseason watch list includes eleven standout players, three of whom earned spots on the 2026 Stats Perform FCS Preseason All‑America Team. Senior quarterback Liam Becher, defensive standout Lance Rucker and versatile playmaker Kaden Vig headline the selections, underscoring the team’s depth and experience.
The 2026 campaign will open at home against Long Island on August 27 at 7 p.m., a matchup that will test the squad early against a disciplined opponent. Coach Eric Schmidt and his staff have emphasized preparation and execution, aiming to translate preseason optimism into on‑field results.
Last season the team was projected to finish seventh but ultimately placed third, marking the highest finish since the 2023 campaign when they were also fourth. The upward trajectory suggests that the current roster, bolstered by returning All‑MVFC honorees Grant Noland and Mason South, could challenge that trajectory and push for a higher conference standing.