NDSU Injuries: Schedule Demands Rest Before Hawaii Trip

North Dakota State football is managing a growing list of injuries as the team prepares for a trip to Hawaii. Head coach Tim Polasek stated that the Bison have significant healing to do following a demanding schedule. The team is currently 4-2 in Mountain West Conference play and 7-2 overall. Polasek noted that the physicality of the last five games, all of which went four quarters, has taken a toll on the roster.

The Bison played four games in the two weeks prior to their 31-7 victory over UTEP. Those opponents included New Mexico, Nevada, UNLV, and Wyoming. New Mexico, UNLV, and Wyoming all hold better conference records than NDSU at 4-0, 4-1, and 3-1 respectively. Polasek estimated that his front-line players have played between 75 and 120 more reps than their counterparts from last year. He cited the sheer number of minutes and the competitive nature of those games as primary factors in the current injury issues.

Running back Myles Mitchell and backup nose guard Obald Niyonkuru dealt with back spasms during the recent win. Polasek said Mitchell is expected to be fine, but the team is evaluating other contributing factors such as practice intensity and player size. Fifth-year senior Josh Mangin started at right tackle when Kene Anene exited the game. On the positive side, quarterback Nathan Hayes did not further damage his ankle, and starting left tackle Ryan Babatz is expected to return to near full strength this week.

The team skipped its regular Monday practice to rest. Polasek said this deviation from the usual game-week routine is designed to ensure players are as healthy as possible before Sunday's session. The Bison will hold three practices this week, each lasting approximately 90 minutes, which is shorter than the typical duration. This approach aims to manage workload while preparing for the upcoming matchup.

North Dakota State begins preparations for Hawaii on Sunday. The team will practice from Sunday through Wednesday before taking Thursday off to travel to Honolulu. The Bison plan to charter a direct flight to the island. They expect to arrive late in the afternoon and will use Friday for a heavier workout than usual. Polasek indicated the team is considering a short visit to Pearl Harbor to balance the travel with some enjoyment for the players.

The game against the University of Hawaii is scheduled for 10 p.m. CT. Polasek described the trip as a business trip that requires the right mentality. He emphasized that while there are a few activities planned, the focus must remain on football when it is time to compete. The coaching staff aims to finish the season strongly despite the physical demands of the schedule.

NDSU is one of 15 FBS teams in the country with at least seven wins. New Mexico and Air Force are also bowl eligible with better records. Wyoming and UNLV need one more victory to reach the six-win threshold. The Bison's current standing places them in a competitive position within the Mountain West Conference as they look to maintain their momentum.