With victories in two of its last three games in 2002 — snapping a 23-game losing streak — Haskell Indian Nations University football coach Eric Brock said 2003, his second season, should be more successful.

“Anytime you win your last game and go into the offseason … it’s a confidence builder,” said Brock, whose team beat Southwestern Assemblies of God U, 30-20, in last season’s finale.

The Fightin’ Indians have their first test at 2 p.m. today against Waldorf College at Haskell Stadium.

“I hope this game will determine who will be the playmakers and who won’t,” Brock said. “How our team jells together, how they overcome adversity.”

The Indians were the worst offensive team in the Central States League, averaging 183 yards a game and finishing 2-7. Their defense was respectable, allowing 315 yards per game.

Junior quarterback Peter Hahn (6-foot-2, 235) will run the show. With top receiver Cody Wilson (6-2, 185) back for his sophomore season and junior Chris Muniz (6-2, 195) adjusting to his wideout role, Brock said Hahn would have two legitimate targets.

Red-shirt freshman Chad Murphy (5-9, 210) will start at tailback after sitting out last year at Northeastern Oklahoma.

“They’re confident about the schemes. They’re more comfortable with me and our system,” Brock said. “Now all they have to do is worry about football and not be concerned with whether or not the program is going in the right direction.”

Defensively, Haskell returns its only All-Conference player, junior linebacker Matt Kalfsbeck (6-1, 220). Freshman defensive back Antonio Hayes (6-0, 200) will beef up the secondary with senior Brett Blythe (6-0, 170), who had eight interceptions last season.

¢ 6Sports video: Haskell opens season today at home

Blythe said Haskell would improve its hapless image this season.

“We’re definitely a lot better,” Blythe said. “Now we just have to go out there every time and play with Haskell pride.”

Waldorf, located in Forest City, Iowa, was 0-11 last season and is 3-19 the last two years.