Following a coaching change, programs may re-evaluate current expectations. However, one of Johansen’s first comments after being introduced as the program's 31st head coach is that the goal for the program is still the same as it would have been if Nielson hadn’t retired.

The emotional moment for Nielson came the day after he announced that he was stepping down as South Dakota football’s head coach and retiring from coaching. He departs USD after nine seasons, four playoff appearances, a Missouri Valley Football conference title and the program’s first-ever playoff semifinal appearance.

The University of South Dakota football program announced that head coach Bob Nielson is stepping down with plans to retire after coaching 32 seasons, including the last nine at USD. The school also announced that defensive coordinator Travis Johansen will take over as head coach.

Travis Johansen discussed taking over as USD head football coach in a press conference held Friday, . Watch the replay on our website.

The 2024 season saw Johansen lead a unit that ranked in the top 10 in scoring defense and top 20 in rushing defense.

First lady Jill Biden expressed her disappointment with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a new interview with The Washington Post, providing rare public comments about the fractured relationship between her husband, Joe Biden, and Pelosi following the president’s departure from the 2024 race.

After an illustrious college football coaching career, long time UMD head football coach Bob Nielson is retiring.