The Augustana College football team came up short in their battle against the Wheaton Thunder, losing 41-34 in a thrilling CCIW clash. It was a hard-fought game, with the Vikings forcing the Thunder into a couple of major firsts for the season.
In the third quarter, the Vikings made a huge stop on a fourth down in the red zone, preventing the Thunder from scoring for the first time all season when in possession inside an opponent’s 20-yard line. The Vikings then capitalized on a Thunder fumble to secure their first turnover in three games, giving them an opportunity to turn the tide in their favor.
However, despite their defensive efforts and offensive success, the Vikings couldn’t hand the nationally 10th-ranked Thunder their first loss of the season. Wheaton running back Giovanni Weeks was a standout player for the Thunder, scoring four touchdowns in the game. Quarterback Ben Thorson also played a pivotal role, breaking open the game with two fourth-quarter touchdown passes.
The Vikings did not go down without a fight, scoring with just 17 seconds left in regulation. They attempted an on-side kick to regain possession, but the Thunder recovered it and ran out the remaining seconds to secure the victory.
Offensively, Augustana had a strong performance, accumulating 446 yards of total offense, including 248 rushing yards. Senior running back Ty Rivelli was particularly impressive, rushing for 169 yards on just 16 carries. His 72-yard run set up the Vikings’ first touchdown of the game, giving them an early lead.
Despite the loss, the Vikings showed resilience and will look to bounce back in their next game against Carroll. Wheaton, on the other hand, maintained their undefeated record and will aim to continue their success in the coming weeks.
The game showcased the competitive spirit of both teams and provided an exciting clash for fans. While Augustana fell short in their quest for victory, they displayed a strong offensive performance and the ability to challenge a nationally-ranked opponent. As the season progresses, both teams will aim to build on their performances and make their mark in the conference.
