MINOT, N.D. — Two games into the 2026 season, Minot State football has yet to find the win column, but the Beavers remain confident as they prepare for their first road test of the season on Saturday at Augustana University.
Minot State enters the match-up 0-2 after suffering two one-score losses to open the season. Despite the losses, the Beavers have shown plenty of promise on both sides of the ball, including a strong offensive performance in their most recent game against Wayne State last Thursday.
The Beavers recorded 419 total yards and 24 first downs in the contest, including 334 rushing yards. Brandon Hines Jr. led the way on the ground with 174 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Sam Buckhanan added 69 rushing yards. Jaden Fox also found the end zone on the ground, while Jael Chavez contributed two field goals.
The production on both defense and offense has given the Beavers plenty of reasons to remain confident heading into their first road game.
"I think they're encouraged," Minot State head coach Ian Shields said. "We have a resilient group and I think we're well led. Our attitude is in a good place and I think the guys are feeling good about what they're doing as a unit, individually and collectively."
The Beavers will look to carry that confidence with them to Augustana University, where they will face a team that Shields knows will present a challenge.
"They're always a handful," Shields said regarding Augustana. "A prolific team and well coached."
Although the change of scenery presents a new challenge, the Beavers see some benefits to getting away from home for the first time this season.
"Sometimes it's good to go on the road. You eliminate the distractions you have at home," says Shields.
On the field, the Beavers will continue to rely on their rushing attack while looking for more consistency in critical situations. Brandon Hines Jr.'s early-season production has provided a major boost, but Coach Ian Shields emphasized that the success of the running game begins with the offensive line.
"Obviously, Brandon is off to a great start. But none of that happens without the guys up front," Shields said. "We're playing well up front."
The quarterback rotation will remain a storyline on Saturday, with both Jett Lundeen and Matt Shinn expected to play. Head Coach Shields has been pleased with the decisions and performances of both quarterbacks while emphasizing the importance of the entire offensive unit.
"I think both Jett and Matt are playing well at quarterback," Shields said. "They both are doing really good things and making good decisions. Both are true dual-threat guys that can run and throw."
For Minot State, the next step is turning their strong stretches of play into a complete four quarter performance. The Beavers have moved the ball effectively, but the team knows execution in key moments will decide whether the close games end in wins.
"We're doing a lot of good things, we're on the right track. We have a good football team," Shields said. "We just need to keep playing a little bit better. Handle some critical situations better. We have to eliminate some explosive plays defensively."
After two one-score defeats, Minot State will have another opportunity to prove their progress when they travel to Augustana. With an explosive rushing attack, good production from special teams, and both quarterbacks expected to see the field, the Beavers look to turn their early-season resilience into their first victory of 2026.
Kickoff is set for Saturday, 1 pm, at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD.
Players to watch:
OFFENSE
DEFENSE
