University of South Dakota Athletics

Mark Jenkins, a native of Sparta, WI, ranks as one of the best quarterbacks in South Dakota football history. Jenkins was a member of three North Central Conference championship football teams in 1972, 1973, and 1974. A fine all-around athlete, Jenkins split his time with the Coyote baseball team, earning three letters while setting single season records for runs batted in, doubles, and home runs. Named to the 1975 all-NCC football team, Jenkins had the dangerous package of possessing a sound passing game with excellent running skills. Jenkins established a school record in total offense (5,409 yards) and his 6.3 yards per attempt stands as a good indication of his effectiveness. When Jenkins graduated he also held school records for yards passing (3,742) and scoring (185). Jenkins was South Dakota's extra point and field goal kicker. In 1974 he led the conference in scoring with 76 points.