CFB D2 Game Preview: Midland Warriors (0-0) vs. Mary Marauders (0-0)

Game Details

MDU Resources Community Bowl

Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM CT.

Betting Trends

Mary is 8–2 ATS in home games the past two seasons.

Midland is 4–1 ATS in nonconference road openers under Coach Jeff Jamrog.

Key Storylines

The Warriors were picked fifth in the GPAC preseason coaches’ poll after finishing 7–3 in 2024 and returning seven offensive starters.

Mary enters Year 3 under Coach Craig Bertraw, leaning on a veteran offensive line and a physical rushing attack that averaged 200 yards per game last fall.

This is the first meeting between the two programs, pitting an NAIA-powered Midland squad against a rising DII Northern Sun contender.

Players to Watch

Midland Warriors

Jake Hanson, QB: Senior passer threw for 2,200 yards and 18 TDs in 2024.

Dan Carter, RB: Workhorse back rushed for 1,050 yards and 12 scores.

Anthony Williams, WR: Breakaway threat with 60 catches for 800 yards.

Mary Marauders

Giovanni Carraro, QB: Dual-threat signal-caller accounted for 2,000 total yards.

Matt Teifke, RB: Led the Marauders with 950 rushing yards and eight TDs.

Dillon Garver, WR: Reliable possession receiver with 45 catches and 500 yards.

Tactical Breakdown

Offense

Midland runs a spread-RPO scheme designed to get playmakers in space, using motion and quick screens to slow down the edge rush. Mary counters with a run-heavy pro-I approach, mixing power dives with misdirection and play-action to keep defenses honest.

Defense

The Warriors will open in a 4-2-5 nickel, relying on speed in the secondary to limit big plays. Mary employs a base 4-3 front with a rotating linebacker group tasked with filling gaps and forcing turnovers.

X-Factors

Offensive Line Cohesion: Which unit can win the point-of-attack battle will dictate time of possession.

Special Teams Swings: A blocked punt or return touchdown could flip momentum in a one-score game.

Turnover Margin: Mid-game mistakes could be magnified, especially late in the third quarter.