The Preferred Walk-On Show is a sports podcast hosted by Seth Saunders and James Kehm, celebrating the stories, rivalries, and traditions that make college sports unforgettable. Sitting on the Deacon Board for the Church of Tailgate and self-proclaimed Minsters of Culture for college sports, the show blends expert analysis, cultural commentary, and fan-driven passion into one dynamic weekly experience. Each episode dives deep into the biggest games, legendary programs, and hidden gems across the FBS and FCS landscapes — featuring interviews with coaches, players, and insiders who shape the sport.
In this episode of The Preferred Walk-On Show, host Seth Saunders welcomes Dan Jackson, Head Coach of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, culture, and competition at the highest level of FCS football.
Coach Jackson opens up about:
๐ The Dakota Marker Rivalry — the history, pride, and preparation behind one of college football’s fiercest matchups
๐ช Team Culture & Leadership — how the Jackrabbits maintain excellence year after year
๐ง Coaching Philosophy — lessons learned from a lifetime in football and how they shape his approach
๐ Preparation & Process — how South Dakota State stays focused and disciplined through the grind of the season
๐ค Community & Relationships — the role of fans, family, and trust in sustaining success
๐ง It’s a deep look into what makes South Dakota State one of the most respected programs in college football — and the man leading it forward.
Support Coach Jackson and the Jackrabbits in every way you can:
South Dakota State Jackrabbits Football
Jackrabbits Football Twitter/X
Jackrabbits Football Instagram
Plus: We’re on the hunt for College Football's Tailgate All-Americans. From Athens to Ann Arbor, Madison to Baton Rouge — we want to see whose the cream of the tailgate crop from coast-to-coast.
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The FCS landscape is as exciting as ever — and this week, Preferred Walk-On host Seth Saunders welcomes Craig Haley (Stats Perform, The Analyst) to break down the rivalries, storylines, and stars shaping the 2025 season.
Together they discuss:
๐ Dakota Marker Showdown: North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State — the rivalry that defines the FCS
๐พ Missouri Valley Power: How NDSU, SDSU, and North Dakota are separating themselves
๐ Presbyterian’s Unlikely Rise: From underdog to Top 25 contender
โก Taron Dickens: Western Carolina’s QB lighting up the FCS and chasing the Payton Award
๐ค William & Mary’s CAA Run & Patriot League Future
๐ด Tarleton State’s Emergence: Building a program with purpose
๐๏ธ Nashville’s Championship Stage: Why this year’s FCS title race feels more open than ever
๐ง If you love FCS football, this is an episode you don't want to miss.
Support Craig in every way you can:
The Analyst - the Best FCS Coverage
Plus: We’re on the hunt for College Football's Tailgate All-Americans. From Athens to Ann Arbor, Madison to Baton Rouge — we want to see whose the cream of the tailgate crop from coast-to-coast.
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This week on The Preferred Walk-On Show, host Seth Saunders sits down with Head Coach Steve Englehart of the Presbyterian Blue Hose, who has led his team to a 6–0 start, the longest winning streak in the country, and a spot in the Top 25.
Coach Englehart opens up about:
๐ช Building a Winning Culture — how belief, unity, and discipline drive the Blue Hose
๐ชข The “Pull the Rope” Philosophy — the mindset behind Presbyterian’s success
๐ Recruiting Without Scholarships — developing players who buy into the mission
๐ค Community Support — how fans, alumni, and families fuel the program
๐ค Personal Reflections — growth, leadership, and what he’s learned as a coach and teammate
This is a conversation about belief, connection, and perseverance — everything that makes college football special. Coach Englehart’s message is one every fan should hear.
Support Coach Englehart and the Blue Hose in every way you can:
Presbyterian Blue Hose Football
Plus: We’re on the hunt for College Football's Tailgate All-Americans. From Athens to Ann Arbor, Madison to Baton Rouge — we want to see whose the cream of the tailgate crop from coast-to-coast.
๐ง Give Preferred Walk-On a follow on social media:
If you believe in Saturdays:
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๐ป Share this episode with your tailgate crew
This week on The Preferred Walk-On Show, host Seth Saunders sits down with Shehan Jeyarajah, senior writer at CBS Sports, to unpack one of the most inspiring stories in college football this season — the rise of Trinidad Chambliss.
They explore:
๐ Chambliss’s journey from 0-star recruit to Division II national champion and Ole Miss quarterback in the thick of the CFP race
๐ก Player development & coaching dynamics — how mentorship and system fit shape success
๐ฐ NIL & Transfer Portal era — how modern college football is redefining opportunity
๐ฏ Emerging coaches — who is positioned to become the next Curt Cignetti?
๐ง It’s a story about perseverance, opportunity, and honoring your gift.
Support Shehan in every way you can and be sure to read his feature article on Trinidad Chambliss and share with your college football loving friends:
The People and Places That Made Trinidad Chambliss
Plus: We’re on the hunt for College Football's Tailgate All-Americans. From Athens to Ann Arbor, Madison to Baton Rouge — we want to see whose the cream of the tailgate crop from coast-to-coast.
๐ง Give Preferred Walk-On a follow on social media:
If you believe in Saturdays:
โ
Tap Follow/Subscribe
โญ๏ธ Drop a 5-star review to grow the Congregation
๐ป Share this episode with your tailgate crew
The 2025 college football season is kicking off — and we’ve got the Kansas City Star’s Shreyas Laddha on Preferred Walk-On to break it all down.
We’re covering:
๐ Teams to Watch Nationally — programs poised to make noise this season
๐ช Kansas Football in 2025 — why the program is trending up
โก๏ธ Jalon Daniels — one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country
๐ฐ The Booth Family Donation — what KU’s investment means for the future of the program
๐ถ Georgia Bulldogs Outlook — Shreyas’ alma mater is still in the hunt
๐ฐ Follow Shreyas Laddha’s coverage
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