Lucas Lueders enters his third season with the University of Sioux Falls football program in 2026 as the Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator after quickly establishing one of the NSIC's most explosive and balanced offensive attacks.
In 2025, Lueders orchestrated one of the most productive offenses in the conference, leading the Cougars to a 7-4 overall record and a 6-4 mark in NSIC play. USF averaged 30.6 points and 433.4 total yards per game while totaling 4,767 yards of offense. The Cougars threw for 2,877 yards and 24 touchdowns, averaging 261.6 passing yards and 8.9 yards per attempt, while also rushing for 1,890 yards and 23 touchdowns. His offense moved the chains for 259 first downs and converted an impressive 49.3 percent of its third-down opportunities, showcasing both explosiveness and efficiency.
Lueders also played a pivotal role in the development of several All-Conference performers. Wide receiver Hank Brown III earned First Team All-NSIC and Second Team D2CCA All-Super Region honors after totaling 83 receptions for 979 yards, while quarterback Tate Schafer and running back Bubba Tann III emerged as two of the conference's most dynamic offensive weapons. Under Lueders' direction, the Cougar offense consistently created matchup problems and established itself as one of the premier units in the region.
In his first season with the Cougars in 2024, Lueders helped guide USF to an 8-3 record and a tie for second place in the NSIC standings. The season was highlighted by 13 All-NSIC selections, 15 NSIC All-Academic Team honorees and 20 NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence recipients.
Lueders arrived in Sioux Falls following three seasons as the offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at the University of Central Missouri. In 2021, he helped engineer the MIAA's top passing offense, continuing a reputation for developing high-powered attacks and productive skill players.
Before Central Missouri, Lueders spent nine seasons at Morningside University as the offensive coordinator, recruiting coordinator and wide receivers coach. During his tenure, the Mustangs became one of the premier programs in the NAIA, capturing two national championships and posting two undefeated seasons. His offenses consistently ranked among the nation's best, and he helped develop three NAIA Players of the Year. Lueders also coached Brandon Wegher, who went on to play professionally with the Carolina Panthers.
Prior to Morningside, Lueders spent two seasons at St. Ambrose University as an offensive and defensive graduate assistant while earning his master's degree in organizational leadership. He began his coaching career at Sterling College, where he served as a student assistant working with the linebackers.
A 2008 graduate of Sterling College, Lueders earned his bachelor's degree in exercise science. He and his wife, Megan, have two sons, Greysen and Davis.
Updated 6/17/2026
