Mitchell, S.D. – The Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) announced the 2023 football preseason coaches’ poll this morning. Coaches among the conference picked the Tigers to finish 10th in the conference with 27 points. DWU is projected to finish ahead of Briar Cliff (14).
DWU football finished last season with a 2-9 overall record and a 2-8 record in GPAC play. The Tigers will look to flip the script with some key veteran returners including top rusher Jamin Arend, receiver Kiel Nelson, and 2022 All-American defensive back Adam DeJong.
The returning National Champion Red Raiders of Northwestern totaled 98 points and eight first place votes to top the list. Morningside was picked second with 93 points and three first place votes. Dordt was picked third with 78 points to round off the top three for the GPAC. Coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team.
2023 GPAC Preseason Football Coaches’ Poll:
Place Team Pts (1st Place Votes)
1. Northwestern 98 (8)
2. Morningside 93 (3)
3. Dordt 78
4. Midland 75
5. Hastings 59
6. Concordia 57
7. Jamestown 38
8. Doane 36
9. Mount Marty 30
10. Dakota Wesleyan 27
11. Briar Cliff 14
The Tigers open their season with a pair of home games on August 26 against Dakota State and September 2 against Hastings to open their conference schedule.