Records entering the game: The Vikings are 2-5, while the Aggies are at .500 with three wins and three losses. The Viks are coming off of a dispiriting loss at home to Northern Arizona last week, 23-44. In contrast, the Aggies are enjoying a two-game winning streak.
Last year’s meeting: They may not play in the same conference, but the two teams usually find one another on their schedules. UC Davis was the victor last year in a 38-24 decision in Davis, scoring with an attack that was equal parts running and passing.
The Aggies scored two touchdowns right out of the gate and the Viks could not recover. The Viks also lacked in offensive production in the second half, scoring just a lone field goal, to help seal their fate.
Scouting the Aggies: Passing is the name of the game. While their ground game has only gained an average of 54.7 yards per game, the Aggies are excelling through the air. Quarterback Greg Denham is throwing for 263.5 yards per game and has only five picks on the season.
The defense is middle of the road, allowing 229 yards through the air and 136 yards on the ground, on average, in each game.
Scouting the Vikings: The Vikings have had trouble with turnovers this season, and the Aggies are good at forcing and recovering them. This could prove to be the deciding factor in the game.
The Vikings lost their offensive identity last week and need to get it back to finish the season with a winning record. The pass defense must also find itself and make stands throughout the game, unlike last week, for the team to garner a much-needed win.
QB for the Vikings: Junior quarterback Drew Hubel sustained a knee injury two weeks ago in the game against Northern Colorado, which sidelined him for last week’s game. As a result, sophomore backup Connor Kavanaugh started, with mixed results: He went 11 of 26 for 116 yards and three interceptions. He was, however, the team’s leading rusher with 42 yards.
Kavanaugh is expected to get the start again this week, with Hubel listed as doubtful.