BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference released its 2025 NSIC Football Preseason Coaches' Poll on Tuesday morning with Concordia-St. Paul picked to finish 11^th overall and sixth in the South Division.

The Golden Bears received 50 points in the poll, putting them ahead of UMary (35), Southwest Minnesota State (27), and conference newcomer Jamestown (14). Minnesota State was picked to win the conference with 167 points and 11 first-place votes while Augustana was picked second with 153 points and three first-place votes.

"What excites us most about the 2025 Golden Bear Football season is the unwavering commitment our team has shown this offseason," said Head Coach Shannon Currier. "The work ethic across the board has been the strongest we've seen in recent years. With a powerful blend of impact transfers, emerging young talent ready to take the next step, and key staff additions, the energy within our program is at an all-time high. Most importantly, there's a growing belief in one another that is laying the foundation for something special. This team has all the pieces to be one of the NSIC's biggest surprises this fall."

Senior wide receiver Troy Ellison was named the Golden Bear to watch on offense this season.

"Troy enters the 2025 season poised to be one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NSIC. A true game-changer, he has earned a nomination for NSIC Preseason Player of the Year, and for good reason," stated Currier. "With elite speed (4.47 on uprising SR day), explosive route running, and the versatility to line up anywhere in our offensive formation, Troy is set to be the centerpiece of our attack. Whether out wide, in the slot, or motioned into the backfield, his presence on the field forces defenses to account for him on every snap. Ellison's work ethic and football IQ are equally impressive. He's elevated his game in the offseason, taking on a leadership role and refining his craft to become a complete offensive weapon."

On defense, junior linebacker Ben Rehl was named CSP's player to watch in 2025.

"Ben returns in 2025 as the heart of the Golden Bears defense. A seasoned veteran with big-game experience, Ben brings the total package: athleticism, football IQ, and a relentless drive to make plays", said Currier. "What sets Ben apart is his instinct for the football. Over the past few seasons, he's created numerous turnovers and has consistently made momentum-shifting plays. He is savvy in pass coverage, brings physicality to the run defense, and seems to be around the ball often. We love the combination of his high-level experience and elite understanding of the game. He's a leader on and off the field and plays with the type of confidence and energy that elevates the entire defense. Ben is primed to be one of the top defenders in the NSIC this fall, and we can't wait to see him lead the charge for what's shaping up to be a special season."

In 2025, the NSIC returns to 14 teams with the addition of the University of Jamestown.  The schedule will be broken into two divisions (north/south). Each team will play 10 conference games that will count towards the NSIC Overall Championship, of which six divisional games will count towards the NSIC North/South Division Championships. In all, three league champions will be awarded (Overall Champion, North Division Champion, South Division Champion). Ties will not be broken for overall or division champions. 

The Golden Bears will open the 2025 campaign with a nonconference game at Quincy (Ill.) on Thursday, August 28.