Overview
- Nathan Hayes changed his jersey from No. 12 to No. 2, saying he wants to create his own legacy as North Dakota State’s new senior quarterback.
- Head coach Tim Polasek highlighted a 73-yard throw on the run in spring practice and called it a wow moment, then pressed for steadier, situationally clean play.
- Hayes has limited game experience with 37 completions on 63 attempts for 595 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception, plus 178 rushing yards and two rushing scores.
- He has flashed big-play ability with touchdown runs of 51 and 34 yards and a 68-yard touchdown pass in brief action the past two seasons.
- North Dakota State is moving up to the FBS in the Mountain West, raising the level of competition and expectations for a program known for NFL-linked quarterbacks such as Easton Stick, Cam Miller and Cole Payton.