Mike Vanasek, a senior strong safety from Lakeville, Minn., had the best statistical game of his career in leading Augustana to a 32-21 victory over Emporia State in the Vikings' first-ever game in Kirkeby-Over Stadium. Vanasek collected a game-high 9 tackles, including 4 tackles for a loss of 21 yards. Three of those tackles behind the line of scrimmage were sacks. His 9 tackles, 4 tackles for loss and 3 sacks all matched career highs. In addition, he broke up 1 pass attempt.
Vanasek was named the NSIC Defensive Player of the Week and the D2Football.com National Defensive Player of the Week.