CFB D2 Game Preview: Missouri Western Griffons (0-0) vs. #16 Augustana Vikings (0-0)

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Game Details

Time: 2:00 PM CT / 3:00 PM ET

Location: Kirkeby-Over Stadium, Sioux Falls, SD

Broadcast: MidAmerica Sports Network

Team Form & Trends

Missouri Western Griffons finished 2024 at 7–4, including a 5–1 home mark. They closed last season with a three-game win streak, highlighted by a 31–28 upset of Northwood. Their offense averaged 28 points at Spratt Stadium but struggled on third downs (32% conversion) and surrendered 24 rushing TDs.

Augustana Vikings went 9–2 in 2024, earning a #16 preseason ranking. They won nine straight before falling in the opening round of the playoffs 24–27. Augustana’s pace-and-space attack churned out 38.5 points per game, while their defense forced 18 turnovers and held opponents under 100 rushing yards five times.

Tactical Breakdown

Missouri Western will rely on smash-mouth runs inside and play-action off early success.

Augustana uses pre-snap motion and run-pass options to force misalignments and tempo fatigue.

Players to Watch

Missouri Western Griffons

QB Mike Parker: Senior dual-threat who passed for 2,400 yards and rushed for 400 in 2024

RB Joshua Wilson: Workhorse back with 1,100 yards and 12 TDs; excels between the tackles

DE Alex Johnson: Edge disruptor tallied 10 sacks and 5 forced fumbles

Augustana Vikings

QB Ethan Brooks: Preseason All-Region pick, threw 30 TDs with a 68% completion rate

WR Dylan Davis: Deep threat with 1,200 receiving yards and 14 big-play TDs

LB Noah Schmidt: Defensive captain led team with 115 tackles and 4 interceptions

Game Odds

Missouri Western Griffons          55.5

Augustana Vikings                          – 17.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025

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NCAAFB Editor
Profile: A dedicated college football analyst with a deep understanding of the sport’s tactical complexity, recruiting landscape, and conference‑wide dynamics. This columnist provides comprehensive coverage of the NCAA football season, blending film study, statistical insight, and historical context to explain how programs evolve from Week 1 through bowl season and the College Football Playoff. Background: With extensive experience covering Division I football, the columnist has contributed to national sports outlets, digital platforms, and radio segments focused on coaching trends, roster construction, and player development. A background in sports journalism and analytics supports a disciplined approach to evaluating performance, interpreting data, and tracking long‑term program trajectories across all major conferences. Signature Coverage Areas: Game previews and tactical matchups Film‑based breakdowns of offensive and defensive systems Recruiting analysis, transfer‑portal movement, and roster‑building strategy Coaching philosophies, scheme evolution, and conference‑wide trends Historical context, rivalry features, and postseason analysis Style & Approach: The writing emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and accessibility — translating complex schemes, advanced metrics, and recruiting data into insights that resonate with both long‑time college football fans and new followers of the sport. Each column reflects a commitment to balanced reporting, thoughtful evaluation, and a deep appreciation for the tradition, passion, and unpredictability that define NCAA football.