The Splitting Hares Podcast

Everyone’s looking for an edge — but real performance comes from using the right tools with the right purpose. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we break down smart supplementation for every stage of the game: from the athlete of aging to weekend warriors and pros still pushing their limits. Zach shares what’s worth your time, what’s a waste, and how to build a sustainable strategy for...

Success isn’t just about discipline — it’s about design. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we explore how your environment shapes your habits, mindset, and performance. From NFL locker rooms to home offices and family spaces, Zach shares how small adjustments in your surroundings can create massive results in your health, focus, and daily routines. Whether you’re training, parenting, o...

Hobo Day didn’t disappoint — and neither did the Jacks. South Dakota State defended home turf once again with a statement win in front of the Dana J. faithful. But before looking ahead, we’re zooming out to talk about the ripple effects shaking up college football. 🎙️ In this episode: ​ The FBS coaching carousel — who’s on the move, and how those shifts could impact the FCS landscape ​ Full Hobo D...

Pressure doesn’t break you — it reveals you. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we dive into what it takes to perform when everything’s on the line. From fighting for a roster spot in the NFL to managing high-stakes moments in business and life, Zach unpacks how to turn stress into strength through preparation, mindset, and composure. Whether you’re an athlete, a leader, or a parent, th...

It wasn’t pretty early, but the Jacks found their grit when it mattered most. After a sluggish first half that saw them trail by as many as 14 points, South Dakota State stormed back to beat Youngstown State 35–30 at Stambaugh Stadium. 🎙️ In this episode: ​ How the 605 Hogs took over the trenches in the second half ​ A TUFF and inspired performance from Julius “Juice” Loughridge, who rumbled for 1...

The Jacks took care of business — and Chase Mason put on an absolute show. The junior quarterback lit up Mercyhurst with 3 touchdown passes, over 300 yards through the air, and a completion rate north of 70%, leading SDSU to another dominant win inside Dana J. 🎙️ In this episode: • Full recap of Mason’s breakout performance and the offense firing on all cylinders • Key defensive moments that kept...

The Jacks turn the page after an up-and-down performance against Drake and a welcomed improvement week. Now they roll out the carpet for Mercyhurst, an FCS transitional program out of Erie, PA, competing in the NEC. 🎙️ In this episode: • Context on Mercyhurst’s FCS transition and early growing pains • The common thread: both teams have faced Sac State and Montana State — see how those comparisons...

Jackrabbit Nation showed out — and so did the Jacks. Under the lights of Dana J., the home team rolled past Drake 37–21, debuting slick black threads that blended old-school flair with a modern edge featuring the classic cursive logotype. 🎙️ In this episode: • Full breakdown of the 37–21 win and who led the charge on both sides of the ball • Reaction to the new blackout uniforms — the perfect mix...

Jackrabbit Nation — what a ride. In a double-overtime classic, the Jacks outlasted No. 2/3 Montana State 30–24, proving once again that championship DNA travels. Grit, guts, and game-breaking plays defined a night to remember in Bozeman. 🎙️ In this episode: • Full breakdown of the 30–24 double OT victory — who stepped up when it mattered most • How the defense bent but never broke against the Bobc...

Jackrabbit Nation — we’re fresh off a 20–3 win over Sac State and headed north for the Gold Rush showdown vs. No. 2/3 Montana State, last year’s national runner-up. 🎙️ What’s in this episode: • How SDSU shut down Sac State: key plays, adjustments, and standout performers • What the 20–3 score really says about the offense, defense & momentum • Deep dive into Montana State — strengths, scheme, and...

Get ready, Jackrabbit Nation — in this week’s Friday Night Football episode, we dive into our Sac State preview with Zach Heins, the towering 6’7”, 260-lb tight end whose “back-to-back national championships” highlight his resume. 🎙️ What to expect: • In-depth breakdown of Sac State’s strengths & threats • Heins weighs in on the Jackrabbits’ identity as a program and the outlook for the 2025 club...

🎧 Go live with The Splitting Hares Podcast — Season Preview Livestream now on Spotify! Get your primer on the 2025 Jackrabbit football campaign: 🔍 Expectations, matchups, breakout players, and how this season could go 📣 Hosted by former players + Scott Wagner 🍻 Proudly presented by The Wild Hare of Brookings, SD Jump in early — the tailgate starts now. #GoJacks #RunRabbits

Parenting is the toughest — and most rewarding — performance arena there is. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we talk about what it means to lead, love, and stay disciplined as a father while balancing work, fitness, and family life. Zach shares how he levels up as a dad of three — from building structure in the chaos to finding strength through presence, not perfection. Whether you’r...

Distractions are everywhere — from your phone to your workload to family demands. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we break down how to sharpen focus, cut through the noise, and stay locked in when everything is competing for your attention. Whether you’re an athlete or a busy professional, these tools will help you perform with clarity on the field, in the gym, and in everyday life.

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we dig into the transitions every athlete and professional face — from changing roles to shifting identities — and how to pivot with confidence when the playbook changes.

What does it look like to bring the athlete’s mindset into everyday life? In this episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we explore how routines, energy management, fitness, and even fatherhood can become training grounds for high performance. Whether you’re chasing goals in the gym, at work, or at home, these strategies will help you level up beyond the field.

In Episode 2 of Level Up with Zach Zenner, we shift from the NFL grind to the everyday hustle — tackling how to level up when life is busy, unpredictable, and full of competing demands. Zach shares the routines and non-negotiables that keep him sharp as a father of three, a former pro athlete, and a health coach. From energy management and efficient workouts to nutrition strategies that work for t...

What does it take to thrive when nothing is guaranteed? In this debut episode of Level Up with Zach Zenner, former SDSU All-American and NFL running back shares how the undrafted mindset — built on discipline, resilience, and relentless preparation — can help you survive training camp and succeed in life. Whether you’re chasing a roster spot or climbing the career ladder, these lessons will push y...

Kyle and Coach Dan Jackson discuss the lead up to his hiring, his approach to recruiting, what he's learned along his coaching journey, the strengths of the staff he's assembled, and much more. About Dan Jackson, Head Football Coach of South Dakota State. Coach Jackson was an assistant coach for South Dakota State in 2012. After being a position coach, recruiting coordinator, and associate...

In this episode of the Splitting Hairs podcast, the hosts dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming football game between SDSU and North Dakota State. They discuss the importance of community support, analyze team dynamics, and evaluate player performances. The conversation shifts to game strategies, coaching styles, and the significance of defensive and offensive tactics. The hosts expres...

In this episode of the Splitting Hairs Podcast, the hosts discuss the recent performance of South Dakota State football, including a recap of their game against Montana. They analyze the upcoming matchup against UIW, focusing on weather conditions, key players, and strategies for success. The hosts emphasize the importance of special teams and maintaining composure during high-stakes games, while...

In this episode of the Splitting Hares podcast, the hosts discuss various topics including Clifton McDowell's transfer, insights into Montana football, and the performance of the 605 Hogs. They analyze the upcoming matchup against the Griz, highlight key players like Tucker Kraft, Christian Roseboom, and Mason McCormick, and emphasize the importance of Pro Bowl voting. The conversation also touche...

In this episode of the Splitting Hares podcast, the hosts discuss the upcoming FCS playoff game between South Dakota State and Montana. They delve into Montana's recent performance, the dynamics of their offense and defense, and the impact of weather conditions in Brookings. The conversation also touches on the historical context of the matchup and the cultural significance of the rivalry. The hos...

In this episode of the Splitting Hares podcast, the hosts reflect on their Thanksgiving experiences, share their favorite dishes, and discuss the end of the football season, including controversies surrounding playoff seeding. They introduce a 'Thankful Board' highlighting humorous and heartfelt moments from the season. The conversation shifts to forecasting the FCS playoffs, analyzing team perfor...

In this episode of the Splitting Hairs Podcast, the hosts discuss various aspects of South Dakota State Jackrabbits football, including game day specials, player performances, and the impact of recent changes in college football regulations. The conversation covers the versatility of the running backs, defensive strategies, and the implications of roster limits on FCS programs. The guys emphasize...