It’s a question frequently posed during August practice for North Dakota State’s head football coach: Will any true freshmen have their redshirts pulled? Who stands out as the best candidate to play immediately?
This week, Tim Polasek highlighted that the evolving landscape of college football will influence this decision moving forward. Redshirt status isn’t a priority anymore.
“I don’t care about the redshirt, period,” he stated. “I aim to protect kids during the recruiting process, but in today’s age, we’ll play the players who can contribute.”
Polasek noted that it’s not solely about football; in education, many players graduate in four years, having arrived with college credits from high school.
Receiver Jackson Williams has already had his redshirt removed. In the recent 42-10 victory against Illinois State, three true freshmen participated: cornerback Will Washington, running back Peder Haugo, and linebacker Donovan Woolen.
Woolen has played in three games, with one more to go to stay within the NCAA’s four-game eligibility rule. Haugo and Washington have played in two games, while safety Taylen Eady and wide receiver Jacob Kilzer (a former quarterback) have appeared in one each.
“If they can help us, they need to be ready,” Polasek remarked.
Washington, hailing from Apple Valley, Minnesota, is the latest to step up.
“From his practice habits and attitude, he’s among the best players here,” Polasek said. “We will keep evaluating various positions, especially with injuries affecting special teams.”
Bison fullback Truman Werremeyer is also making an impact, having recorded his first two receptions of the season against Illinois State, helping to kick off a strong offensive drive.
Polasek was asked if the 6-foot-2, 246-pound Werremeyer exemplifies the ideal Bison fullback. He referenced former players Lee Vandal and Andrew Grothmann, both North Dakota natives.
“We simply don’t run that many plays that risk injuries anymore,” he explained. “While Vandal was a tough player, Truman offers more versatility as a blocker and receiver.”
Polasek compared Werremeyer to another multi-purpose fullback, Andrew Bonnet.
“Vandal and Grothmann are very significant in my mind—they were all tough and physical,” he said.
Around the Valley
After the initial week of Missouri Valley Football Conference play, a clear distinction is emerging, even with South Dakota State yet to compete. NDSU, UND, South Dakota, and Missouri State are all 1-0, though the Bears are ineligible for a conference title due to their transition to FBS next season. NDSU and UND stand at 4-1, while the Coyotes are 3-1 after one game cancellation. The Jackrabbits also hold a 3-1 record.
Last week, the Bison distanced themselves from Illinois State with their 42-10 road victory. Southern Illinois currently sits at three losses, and Northern Iowa managed a narrow win at St. Thomas.
In addition to NDSU and UND, another key game this week is the Jackrabbits at UNI, which could be pivotal for the Panthers.
“I think they are a great football team, regardless of their record,” remarked SDSU head coach Jimmy Rogers at his weekly press conference.
Etc., etc., etc.
NDSU’s schedule is ranked as the second-toughest in the FCS. Colorado holds a 4-1 record after three successive victories; East Tennessee State is at 3-2, ranking No. 23 in the Stats Perform top 25 poll. Bison quarterback Cam Miller achieved 216 passing yards last week, marking his 15th career game over 200 yards, breaking the previous record of 14 held by Brock Jensen. Cole Payton recorded a 73-yard touchdown run at Illinois State, the longest of his career. UND leads the series 63-50-3, with the record in Fargo tied at 28-28-1.
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