For the last three seasons, Jacob Matthew has thrived as the starting edge rusher in coordinator Travis Johansen's "positionless" defense. Matthew led the Coyotes in sacks all three seasons, totaling 13.5 in all. But Matthew's eligibility has expired and new names are ready to emerge in 2022.
 
CJ Robbins is the new position coach for South Dakota. He started two years at defensive tackle at Northwestern before moving out to more of an edge rusher his senior season. He is working with five returning Coyotes and a graduate transfer from Akron in Michael Scott in filling the void left by Matthew and DeJaun Cooper.
 
"Every position is super impactful, but this position is truly unique in the versatility that these players bring to the field," said Robbins. "Jacob was a phenomenal athlete with great sense and IQ on the field. We've talked about executing our responsibilities at a high level, and when that happens, the ball will come to you and plays will be made."
 
Jason Simon-Ressler is a fourth-year sophomore who played in all 12 games last year, mainly on special teams. Joshua Crownover and Nyle Dickel are recent converts to the position from inside linebacker. Crownover made the switch this past spring while Dickel moved to outside backer near the start of fall camp.
 
Scott hails from Tallahassee, Florida, but is no stranger to the Midwest. He played at Iowa Western Community College before arriving in Akron. Scott started three games and played in all 12 at Akron in 2019. He was the Zips' seventh-leading tackler a year ago.
 
"Mike has played a ton of reps, has the game experience and has been able to shed light on a process and a routine that's led to success," said Robbins.
 
"Everybody has their own strengths and their own perspectives. I love the setup of our room right now because we come from different walks of life, both literally and figuratively. We have young dudes like Browdy and Stallworth who are getting their feet wet, growing and developing their bodies and getting used to game speed. Joshua and Nyle, coming from the inside backer group, bring a different eye and perspective. They are all their own player and it has been awesome to work with them."



Returning Letterwinners
Jason Simon-Ressler, 4^th year soph. (played in all 12 games in 2021)
Justin Stallworth, redshirt freshman (played in four games in 2021)
Nyle Dickel, redshirt freshman (played in three games in 2021)
Danny Browdy Jr., redshirt freshman (played in one game in 2021)
Joshua Crownover, 3^rd year redshirt freshman
 
Newcomer
Michael Scott, senior (seventh-leading tackler for Akron last season)