After an astonishing 14-1 record in 2001, the UND football team regressed in the 2002 season finishing at 5-6. But this year, the Sioux will look to regain their reputation as North Central Conference (NCC) bullies as they try to take the lunch money of every team in their path.
The Sioux hope 2003 will be a break-out season with a boatload of returnees from last season.
"A lot of the guys spent the summer up here so we worked together the whole time," said junior quarterback John Bowenkamp.
Bowenkamp took over as starting quarterback in the middle of last season after starter Kelby Klosterman's season ended due to a shoulder injury.
Bowenkamp looked good in 2002 and hopes to improve this season as he gets the starting nod from the start his junior season.
"I've watched a lot of film," Bowenkamp said. "As a team we've improved a great deal, and I've personally worked to improve my game at the same rate."
Bowenkamp feels that the offensive line will catapult the team through the season.
"Our offensive line is the strongest part of our offense right now," said Bowenkamp. "We feel that we can build our offense around them, and that's a good feeling."
Also returning on offense are wide receivers Jesse Ahlers and Caleb Johnson. Ahlers was one of Bowenkamp's go-to guys last year, with 39 receptions for 330 yards and one touchdown.
In the backfield, UND will see the return of Jim Miller, who was out last season with a knee injury, and Chris Beatty, who held down the ship after Miller's injury. The team has not found a definite starter, but sources close to the team report both backs will see carries in 2003.
On the defensive side of things, the Sioux look to be one of the toughest in the NCC. Ben Olson, a key offensive lineman, had nothing but good things to say about his teammates.
"Our defense looks great," said Olson. "Guys have been solid back-ups for us and now they get their turn to take over."
He added that, "we've been practicing against them for the entire pre-season. They're great, so I can't wait to see what other teams can bring."
UND will hope to get back to its winning ways in 2003. The loss of key offensive and defensive players have left a formidable questions, but coaches and players are both excited about the upcoming year.
"Things get a little edgy when you hit the same guys over and over again," Bowenkamp said. "But hopefully we can stay upbeat and come out ready to play."
Olson just wants to get out on the field. "We really need an opponent," he said.
UND will have its first crack at a regular season win next Saturday, opening against Minnesota-Crookston at the Alerus Center.
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