MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Augsburg defeated Hamline 43-3 at Edor Nelson Field, with Augsburg's defense forcing three turnovers and scoring multiple touchdowns.
The game began with Augsburg opting to defer after winning the coin toss, allowing Hamline to receive the opening kickoff. Hamline's initial drive showed promise as
Zayden Stevens connected for several passes, including a 15-yard gain to
Dawson Schaffer, moving the ball to Augsburg's 37-yard line. However, the drive ended abruptly when Schaffer fumbled on a 13-yard reception, with RJ Chakolis recovering for Augsburg at the 16-yard line. Augsburg responded with a 23-yard pass from Caden Rodkewich to Tyrone Wilson, but their drive stalled, leading to a punt. Later, with 2:46 left in the quarter, a fumble by Rodkewich was recovered by
Jacob Ewing of the Pipers, but the visitors could not capitalize before the end of the quarter.
Hamline took an early lead in the second quarter with a 37-yard field goal by
Kieran Barrientos at 13:33, putting them ahead 3–0. However, Augsburg quickly responded with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Rodkewich to Wilson, bringing the score to 6–3 after a failed extra point attempt. Augsburg's Rashad Sherwood intercepted a pass from Stevens and returned it 54 yards for a touchdown at 6:59, extending Augsburg's lead to 12–3. Following another failed point after attempt, Augsburg capitalized on a Hamline fumble recovered by Nick Norman for a touchdown, increasing their advantage to 24–3. The quarter concluded with Augsburg leading 26–3 after a successful two-point conversion attempt.
Augsburg extended their lead in the third quarter with a series of strategic plays. Rodkewich connected with Wilson for a 45-yard touchdown pass at 8:40, capitalizing on a sustained drive. Nathan Wangensteen's successful extra point brought the score to 33–3. Later, Augsburg's Omar Madkour broke free for a 57-yard touchdown run, widening the gap further.
Augsburg extended their lead in the fourth quarter with a successful 31-yard field goal by Wangensteen at 10:49, bringing the score to 43–3. Augsburg capitalized on a fumble recovery by Javan Harvey, following a forced fumble by Ade Batz-Rogers on a 28-yard kickoff return by Hamline's
Drevonnte Dunkins. Despite a determined rushing effort from
Malik Wynn, who gained 17 yards and brought the ball to Augsburg's 48-yard line, Hamline was unable to score before the game concluded. The match ended decisively in Augsburg's favor.
Dominic Sandoval led the defense with 13 total tackles. Schaffer caught six passes for 69 yards and added a 15-yard punt return. Stevens completed 12 of 22 passes for 123 yards and rushed for 35 yards on four carries.
The Pipers ended their season 0-9 in conference play and 1-9 overall. We want to thank all the players and the seniors for their hard work and dedication, thank you for being a great part of Hamline University and we are so proud of you all! GO PIPERS!
