Travis Johansen on Murray State win, defensive improvements, return game, Indiana State, Bob Nielson update
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A week ago, just two days after South Dakota's nightmare 51-13 loss at North Dakota State, USD coach Travis Johansen told Happy Hour host John Gaskins the Coyotes' culture was too strong to let the 2025 season go off the rails.
So far, he's right.
The Yotes dominated last-place Murray State from the jump in their MVFC home opener, leading 14-0 after the first quarter and 35-7 at halftime en route to a 49-24 victory (that was not as close as the score indicates) to improve to 3-3.
As crisp and wildly productive as the offense played (568 yards) in the Dakota Dome, where USD is 3-0 this season, Happy Hour's weekly conversation with Johansen starts with the way the defense shut down the Racers, plus a several other insights into the maturation of the defense over the first six games.
Who are some of the playmakers consistently stepping up now that 2024 MVFC Defensive Player of the Year Mi'Quise Grace, '24 leading tackler Gary Bryant, and lock down All-American defensive back Dennis Shorter are no longer on the roster?
Johansen also gives insight into another massive output by running back L.J. Phillips (244 yards, 4 TD), who has ran for 140 or more yards in three of his four starts. Phillips plays a major role, sure, but so does the offensive line and even receivers. Also, a word about the dangerous potential of receiver and returner Tennel Bryant.
The interview concludes with the challenges of playing a road game at Indiana State and preparing for a Sycamore squad that is now starting its third string quarterback and backup running back. Finally, an update on retired USD coach Bob Nielson — how he continues to have an impact on Johansen, the Coyotes operation, and FCS football at-large.
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