SIOUX FALLS — Augustana started last year 9-0, only to lose their final two games of the season and miss the Division II playoffs. It was a gut-punch of a way to end the season, as the Vikings were pursuing a third straight NSIC title, and seemed on the verge of overcoming an almost unfair number of injuries to key players.
Now they’re in the midst of spring practice, hoping they’ll have better luck staying healthy in 2026, because if they do, they’re likely to be in the hunt again.
Augustana coach Jerry Olszewski works with the defensive backs during practice on March 30, 2026 at Jim Heinitz Field.
Matt Zimmer/SFL
Quarterback Gunnar Hensley threw for 1,419 yards and 13 touchdowns with zero interceptions before suffering a season-ending injury, and while he’s back, the Vikings are still holding him out of full-contact team sessions. That’s opened the door for more reps for sophomore Rich Lucero, who started six games as a true freshman last year, throwing for 1,283 yards and 15 touchdowns with six interceptions. Lucero had instant success when taking over but also struggled late after defenses adjusted, so coach Jerry Olszewski is hopeful he can make big mental strides this spring.
Top rusher Breylon Blount is back, while a handful of young receivers look to fill the gap left by the graduation of Isaiah Huber. Austin Johnson, who missed most of last year with injury, is one, while local products Braeden Feeldy, Max Carlson and Tytan Tryon (Harrisburg), Dawson Bauer and Manny Struck (O’Gorman), Sam Scholten (Brandon Valley) and Cody Oswald (Yankton) are among the others.
Augustana offensive lineman Cayden Van Horssen runs through a tennis ball drill during practice on March 30, 2026 at Jim Heinitz Field.
Matt Zimmer/Sioux Falls Live
Former Tea tight end Klayton Sattler was hurt for much of last year and put his name in the transfer portal after the season, but ultimately chose to return. He’ll work alongside an offensive line that returns three with starting experience.
The Vikings are unproven on defense, but they have depth on the line and talent at linebacker. The defense will have new playcallers, as D-line coach Kelly Scholten and linebackers coach Chase King will share coordinator duties, replacing Mark Sipple, who left to take the DC role at Drake.
Augustana running back Breylon Blount runs to the outside during a live session at practice on March 30, 2026 at Jim Heinitz Field.
Matt Zimmer/SFL
The Vikings will have a scrimmage with Dordt on April 15 in Sioux Center, then close spring ball with an intrasquad scrimmage on April 25 at Jim Heinitz Field.
The season opener is set for Aug. 27 at Missouri Western.
Matt Zimmer is a Sioux Falls native and longtime sports writer. He graduated from Washington High School where he played football, legion baseball and developed his lifelong love of the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. After graduating from St. Cloud State University, he returned to Sioux Falls, and began a long career in amateur baseball and sports reporting. Email Matt at mzimmer@siouxfallslive.com.