After being the Cinderella story team of 2008, the defending national champs were rudely awakened the second week in the 2009 season by a talented Central Washington team.  However, from 1-1 to 11-1 the Bulldogs marched before losing the battle for the region with dynasty Grand Valley State.  It was not the banner year of 2008, but was truly a successful campaign with a stellar record and being NSIC Champions.  This year’s season could will likely be another year, with the same tough battles forming in the post-season.

UMD is led by NSIC Offensive Player of the Year running back Isaac Odim.  A former Harlon Hill Award finalist, he is UMD’s all-time leading rusher and scorer and a member of the 2009 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American team.  The defensive unit will be anchored by NSIC Defensive Player of the Year linebacker Robbie Aurich, who led the team in tackles again last season with 93 stops and 40 solos.

This season will start with a change to avenge last year’s letdown loss to Central Washington.  This could be a pace-setting game for Duluth as they attempt to run through the NSIC North again to position themselves for home-field during the playoffs.  Key conference contests include Bemidji State, Winona State and 2009 NSIC South Champion Minnesota-Mankato.

D2 Sports Network predicts the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs will repeat as NSIC with a record of 12-2 in the semifinals of the NCAA playoffs.