Overview
- Nathan Hayes switched from No. 12 to No. 2 to set his own identity as he steps into North Dakota State’s starting quarterback role for the move up to the Football Bowl Subdivision.
- Head coach Tim Polasek highlighted a 73-yard throw on the run in spring practice and called it a wow-factor moment.
- Polasek said the staff is now judging Hayes on consistent, tough, clean decisions in game situations.
- Hayes has limited game reps after years as a backup, with career totals of 37-of-63 passing for 595 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception, plus 178 rushing yards and two scores.
- Hayes says he will lead and mentor younger teammates in a season that brings roster turnover, including the loss of wide receiver Bryce Lance, as the Bison enter the Mountain West.