The University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs and the Wayne State Cougars will meet for the first time on the road in Week 2 of the 2026 NSIC season, a matchup that pits a top‑15 nationally ranked team against a program riding a wave of momentum.
UMD answered a 2023 setback with a 30‑23 triumph over Augustana Vikings, a game that showcased Derrick Johnson’s 121‑yard rushing effort, Jonathan Shrum’s decisive interception and Austin Randall’s touchdown run, while Nick Ojile’s two‑point conversion sealed the victory.
Wayne State, under head coach Logan Masters, opened its home slate with a 149‑yard, two‑touchdown performance by Dawson Forgy, a feat that underscores the coach’s reputation for guiding his squads to seven‑win seasons—a record no other coach in program history has matched over five years.
Both teams carry significant expectations: UMD sits No. 15 in the AFCA poll and No. 16 in the D2Football.com rankings, while Wayne State aims to defend its NSIC South Division crown and build on a 1‑1 start that includes a decisive win over Minot State.
The rivalry adds extra spice, as the 2023 encounter ended in a 28‑18 loss for UMD, a result that still lingers in the Bulldogs’ memory as they seek redemption on the road.
With six captains—Carter Geerts, Preston McQueen, Nick Ojile, Ryder Patterson, Ross Rivord and Jonathan Shrum—UMD brings veteran leadership, while Wayne State’s core also features seasoned performers eager to capitalize on early‑season momentum.
Week 2 Preview
Fans will be keen to see whether the Bulldogs’ balanced attack, anchored by a strong ground game and opportunistic defense, can withstand the Cougars’ explosive offense, which has already demonstrated a potent rushing attack led by Forgy and a dynamic passing game from Jacob Eggert.