Vermillion, S.D. – The University of South Dakota Coyotes football program is moving forward with a new chapter following the recent hiring of Matt Vitzthum as head coach. As Vitzthum assembles his staff for the 2026 season, a key piece of the puzzle has fallen into place with the appointment of Heath Parling as the team’s quarterbacks coach. The hire is particularly significant as the Coyotes navigate a transition at the quarterback position following the graduation of longtime starter Aidan Bouman.
Vitzthum, named the 32nd head coach in program history on February 6, 2026, announced Parling’s addition to the coaching staff on March 3, 2026, according to GoYotes.com. Parling brings over nine years of coaching experience, specializing in quarterbacks and other offensive skill positions. Vitzthum expressed his enthusiasm for the hire, stating, “We are excited to have Heath join our coaching staff. He has been successful at almost all levels of college football as a position coach and coordinator.”
The head coach further emphasized the importance of continuity at the quarterback position, adding, “There has been a strong tradition of great quarterback play in this program and Heath will help continue that tradition. We are excited to welcome the Parling family to USD!” The Coyotes have a history of strong quarterback play, and maintaining that standard is a priority for the new coaching regime.
Parling’s Proven Track Record
Heath Parling arrives at South Dakota after a successful four-year stint in the Division II ranks, most recently serving as the offensive coordinator at Upper Iowa University from 2022-2024. During his time with the Peacocks, Parling demonstrably improved the team’s offensive performance. His final two seasons as offensive coordinator saw Upper Iowa achieve winning records, posting a 7-4 record in 2024 and improving to 9-3 in 2025, finishing second and third in their conference, respectively.
Parling’s offensive schemes also yielded individual accolades for Upper Iowa players. He coached Mante Morrow (wide receiver) and Eddie Burgess (tight end) to First Team All-Conference selections. In 2025, Burgess was recognized as an AFCA Second Team All-American, finishing second on the team in receiving yards (641) with 55 receptions and five touchdowns.
Prior to his time at Upper Iowa, Parling gained experience at the FBS level, serving as an offensive graduate assistant at Miami University (Ohio) from 2015-2017 and then at Colorado State from 2018-2019. At both programs, he worked directly with quarterbacks and running backs, honing his skills in developing offensive talent.
Navigating the Post-Bouman Era
The Coyotes face the challenge of replacing Aidan Bouman, a key figure in the program’s recent success, who exhausted his eligibility after the 2025 season. Bouman’s departure creates an opportunity for other quarterbacks on the roster to step up and compete for the starting role. Currently, the team lists three quarterbacks: redshirt seniors Jackson Proctor and Nevan Cremascoli, and redshirt freshman Austyn Modrzewski.
Parling’s expertise will be crucial in evaluating and developing these quarterbacks, preparing them to lead the offense in the upcoming season. His experience in implementing effective offensive strategies and nurturing player development will be invaluable as the Coyotes aim to maintain their competitive edge in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.
Looking Ahead
The hiring of Heath Parling marks an important step in Matt Vitzthum’s efforts to build a strong coaching staff and establish a winning culture at the University of South Dakota. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to developing quarterbacks, Parling is well-positioned to guide the Coyotes through the transition at the most important position on the field. The team will initiate spring practices soon, providing an early opportunity to assess the quarterback competition and implement Parling’s offensive system.
The Coyotes’ next official update is expected following the completion of spring practices in April, when the depth chart will begin to take shape. Fans can locate the latest information on the team’s progress at GoYotes.com.
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