DES MOINES, Iowa — Drake football is not a stranger to a turnaround. In 2022, Drake started 0-8 and won their final three games. This season, they started 0-3 and have now rattled off four wins in a row.
"They know how to handle adversity," head coach Todd Stepsis said. "So they got through that first part of the first season."
The Bulldogs have won seven conference games in a row dating back to last year, the longest active streak in the Pioneer Football League.
"I think (we're just playing) more free, we're starting to understand how to win, and we're playing with a ton of confidence right now," said senior wide receiver Trey Radocha.
In FCS, there are both scholarship and nonscholarship programs, Drake is one of the latter, adding a chip to their shoulder.
"In the world of, 'Hey, what's in it for me? Like how much NIL money am I getting? What do I get in return?', our guys are coming here, because the only thing they want is the opportunity to play football at the Division I level, that's all they want," Stepsis said. "And so, you know, when you have that, and a group of those types of guys, that doesn't take much to get them going."
That motivation is turned completely towards winning.
"None of this team is focused on nothing individually, which is the biggest edge we have on everyone," said Finn Claypool, sophomore defensive lineman. "No one really cares about any stats or any any, you know, we care about winning games."
As the turnaround continues, Drake hopes to capture their first PFL Championship since 2012 and live up to the standard of the 18th winningest FCS program of all time.
"We're starting to show the signs of it. This is the Drake of old. This is a team that can compete and win in any game," Stepsis said.
Drake plays at home this Saturday against Stetson at noon. Find the highlights on Local 5.