The Augustana Vikings open their 2026 campaign on Thursday night, traveling to face Missouri Western in a non‑conference showdown. The team enters the season ranked 13th out of 20 in the preseason polls, carrying the hopes of a program eager to rebound from a 3‑8 record a year ago.
Coach Tyler Fenwick, now in his third season, returns 15 starters, including eight on offense, four on defense and three on special teams. While 18 players from the 2025 roster have moved on, the Vikings have bolstered the lineup with fresh talent and a revamped coaching staff.
The schedule features a blend of road and home contests against NCAA Division II opponents, beginning with the August matchup against Missouri Western before a series of games against Tournament‑qualified rivals. August has been a productive month for Augustana, winning five straight since 2009 and last losing in 2005.
A Revamped Roster and Coaching Staff
Returning captain Gunnar Hensley will lead a group that also includes new captains Tyler Birn, Christian Connelly, Jake Pecina and Sam Scholten. The defensive side welcomes co‑defensive coordinators Kelly Scholten and Chase King, adding depth to the staff.
Preseason accolades highlight the optimism, with Gunnar Hensley and Jermaine Hampton Jr. named to the Preseason Players to Watch list. Four All‑NSIC performers from last season return, including punter Jake Pecina on the First Team and Corbin Wirkus, Klayton Sattler alongside Hampton Jr. on the Second Team.
The Vikings are projected to finish third in the NSIC Preseason Coaches Poll, a position that reflects both the challenges ahead and the potential for a turnaround. Fans can look forward to a season that blends experienced leadership with fresh energy as the team aims to climb back into contention.