SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The Missouri Valley Football Conference released its preseason rankings Tuesday, and despite earning the top spot, South Dakota State knows conference titles aren’t won on paper.

It’s the third time in the last four years the Jackrabbits have been picked to win the conference, but head coach Dan Jackson said he would rather see how his team executes on the field. Even though he doesn’t believe the preseason ranking holds much weight, SDSU did win the conference the last two times it was the preseason favorite, in 2023 and 2024.

“Preseason rankings and preseason honors are great because you see a level of respect shown from your peers and the media,” Jackson said. “At the same time, our players aren’t going to get caught up in that, our staff isn’t going to get caught up with that. It’s an honor, it’s very cool, but we’re much more focused on how we play and how we execute on Saturdays this upcoming fall.”

The Jackrabbits kick off their season against Stetson on Aug. 29 at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium.

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