The Vikings opened their 2025 campaign with a thrilling 63‑58 victory over Missouri Western, a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats from the opening drive to the final snap.
Junior special‑teams standout Neal May was the sparkplug, amassing 185 combined return yards and sealing the win with an 84‑yard punt return that swung the lead to 42‑35 in Augustana’s favor.
His impact stretched beyond the touchdown; May contributed three kickoff returns for 87 yards and two additional punt returns totaling 98 yards, showcasing a versatility that left the opposition scrambling.
First Career NSIC Honor
The performance earned him NSIC Special Teams Player of the Week, the first such recognition of his collegiate career, and underscored the conference’s growing appreciation for dynamic return specialists.
A native of Bradley, Illinois, May’s rise from high‑school standout to conference‑wide honoree adds a personal narrative to the team’s early success, tying his achievements to the community that nurtured his talent.
Implications for the Vikings
The win not only boosts Augustana’s confidence but also signals a potent special‑teams unit that could be a decisive factor as the schedule unfolds.