Sam Thiel/Winonan

College football starts this week, which is music to the ears of the sports world – especially the Winona State University football team.

After finishing 4-7 last season, the players and coaches are ready to bounce back with a strong 2015 season.

“It feels great to be back on the field with all my brothers,” senior linebacker Ian Murray said.

The Warriors bring back talent on both sides of the ball, especially offensively, with wide receiver Josh Mikes leading the way.

Mikes is coming off a junior campaign that landed him a first team All-NSIC spot and honorable mention Don Hansen All-American honors. The then-junior posted an NSIC-best 17.4 yards-per-catch average and 93.2 yards per game as well as 13 touchdowns last season as the Warriors top target.

Winona State was also voted to finish tied for third in the  NSIC South division and sixth overall in the conference.

This season also marks the 20th season for head coach Tom Sawyer as the Warrior football coach.

Defensively, the Warriors have the tough task of replacing a couple of key starters in Morgan Weaver and Ryan Gerts after both graduated. Murray will anchor the defense this season.

“To be successful defensively this season we need to be great communicators,” Murray said. “Each player needs to understand their role/job and do their job, and we need to get after the opposing quarterback each week and make their days very long by creating ball disruptions and turnovers.”

For about 17 players, however, running onto Maxwell Field will have an extra meaning, as they are heading into their senior year.

“Still can’t believe this is my last competitive season playing college football, but being a senior within the group has allowed me to help the younger guys within our position group, and defense,” Murray added. “Personally I have gained game experience by playing in big time games, which allows me to play fast at a high level.”

Winona State kicks off the season on the road when they face Minnesota State Moorhead on Sept. 3.