The ‘Keep Chopping’ Mindset
Greg Schiano has made it clear that the 2026 season will be defined by a single, unifying principle: the ‘Keep Chopping’ mantra. Originating from a 2005 loss that left the program searching for meaning, the phrase now serves as a daily reminder that progress is measured not by individual statistics but by the collective effort of every player on the field.
At the heart of that philosophy is a new defensive coordinator, Travis Johansen, whose work at South Dakota earned praise for transforming a unit into a disciplined, aggressive force. Schiano believes Johansen’s schemes will complement the team’s emphasis on cohesion, giving the Scarlet Knights a sturdier foundation on which to build.
The ‘Team Over Me’ theme permeates every meeting and practice. Schiano says he is looking for athletes who are driven by pure passion for the sport, rejecting the lure of external perks that can distract from the core mission of winning together.
Dr. Kevin Elko, whose advice after the 2005 defeat helped birth the ‘Keep Chopping’ symbol, continues to influence the program’s culture. His insistence that resilience is forged through shared struggle resonates with players who see the mantra as more than a slogan but as a way of life.
Behind the scenes, Athletic Director Keli Zinn has amplified institutional support, aligning resources and leadership to reinforce the coach’s vision. This alignment, Schiano argues, creates an environment where players can focus on the collective goal without off‑field distractions.
Schiano defines a ‘Schiano man’ as someone who excels in integrity, leadership and community contribution, traits that extend beyond the gridiron. The upcoming season will test whether this definition can translate into on‑field success, as individual sacrifices are expected to fuel the team’s overall triumph.