Drake football coach Todd Stepsis is confident the 2021 season was an aberration. After three straight second place finishes in the Pioneer Football League the Bulldogs cratered to a 2-9 record last year. It was the worst record since 1983 for a program that had been a model of consistency.

Stepsis says last season gave him a chance to step back and evaluate the program.

Improvement on offense and special teams is a must. The Bulldogs averaged less than 13 points per game last season and only connected on three field goals the entire season.

The run game averaged only 104 yards per game last season but senior tight end Matt Hartlieb says they have made strides in preseason camp.

Continuity at quarterback will help. Because of injury and illness the Bulldogs started five different quarterbacks last season.

That’s senior receiver Colin Howard. The Bulldogs have a daunting task in their opener as they visit defending FCS champion and top ranked North Dakota State on September third.