Vikings Press Pass with Matthew Nicol

Nick joins me after a career week of 11 tackles vs North Central. We break down the loss at No. 1 North Central, what's been working for the defense under new coordinator Brian Cochran, and why the Vikings have been so tough after halftime. Nick also takes us back to his days at Mahomet-Seymour and shares some insight to his family's farm ahead of the Homecoming game vs Millikin.

Ben joins me fresh off his CCIW player of the week campaign (231yds and 4 TDs) at Elmhurst this past Saturday.

Kaden joins me after tying the Augustana record, 100-yard interception return for a TD that dates back to 1939 by Don Allison vs Lake Forest.

Tyreke Fortney joins me this week as we preview Illinois Wesleyan. We touch on his success not only on the field, but in the classroom and in business! Make sure you check out his clothing line at Darcstars.com.

Augustana's Cole Schroeder joins fresh off a 42-14 win over Simpson, where he led the team with 10 tackles and a fumble recovery on the game's opening drive that set up a 58-yard touchdown. He talks his Texas roots and Rock Island family ties, pickleball and previews Week 2 on the road against UW-Stout. Full episode: https://youtu.be/bCVN8Ye1Izs

Coach Delp joins me to give a mid-season update on the Vikings. We discuss to their Top 5 Strength of Schedule, highlight some improved team stats YOY, current state of the recruiting climate and even shares some behind the scenes program management.

Jimmy Makuh, QB for the Augustana Vikings (D3) joins me to talk about last season, the Loras Scrimmage, and preview their game against Simpson College.

I sit back down with the Women's Basketball Head Coach at Augustana, Mark Beinborn. We reflect on the 2024-2025 season, the trip to Spain, and talk about the team as they are 6-games in to the season.

This week, I sit down with Augustana linebacker Carl Thomas to break down the Vikings’ big win over Carthage and his standout performance leading the team in tackles. We talk about what makes this linebacker group special, his journey from Quincy to Augie, and why the LB mindset fits him so well. Carl also shares insights on his academic path, his family’s influence, and we wrap with a look ahead to Saturday’s huge matchup against WashU with a bowl bid on the line. Tune in!

I sit down with TE Jake Miller ahead of the game vs Carthage. We connect on his 3 TD performance last Saturday, him playing in the McDonalds Baseball All-Star game, intramural basketball, and some great one-liners.... "If you want the rock you gotta block." "Never go broke from making a profit."

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

On this episode, Junior Jimmy Zitkus joins me and we talk all things Center and offensive line related. We introduced questions from an 8-yr old, and we find out he takes a lot of pride in his roller skating abilities. A great conversation ahead of taking on #1 North Central Cardinals.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

On this episode, Junior WR Sean Schlanser joins me to talk about the Vikings 4-1 start, a potent passing offense, the WR room, building rapport with a new QB, and we get some insight knowledge to his personal weather man!

On this special episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by viral cousins Gio and Johnny, the duo behind “We Family Now.”

We talk about how a random event led to a life-changing connection. They share what they’ve learned about each other and why this story proves family can be found anywhere.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

On this episode, Senior OL Ben Hartman joins me to talk about the Vikings’ 3-1 start and their latest win over North Park. Ben shares his journey through offseason surgery and rehab, his role helping coach the JV team to a 4-0 record, and his passion for History. We also get a behind the scenes look on his recent engagement!

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

On this episode, senior RB Ben Ludlum joins me to talk about the Vikings’ ground game, learning from prior RBs Rivelli and Digioia, and stepping in to that lead role. We also chat about life off the field — from his summer internship at Rust-Oleum, fishing and cooking. A great conversation with one of the Vikings’ toughest runners!

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

On this episode, QB Jimmy Makuh discusses stepping in as the Vikings’ starter, the win over Millikin, and why offensive success comes down to all 11 guys. He also shares insight into his transfer from Illinois State and gives us a little insight to pre-snap reads behind the eyes and mind of a hockey player turned QB!

On this episode, Senior OL Max Castle talks about his road back from surgery, moving from guard to tackle, and what it takes to anchor the line. We dive into his Europe trip, fishing and grilling hobbies, and his strong bond with the O-line and coaches.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Senior DE and Captain Nick Hogan joins me to break down the defensive effort in the Simpson game, and his return to full strength after last season’s knee issues. We also dive into leadership, his path as a Finance/Accounting major, and his summer internship with O’Shea Builders—yes, it includes a story of the "Outrageous Games" which includes a mechanical bull.

Off the field, Nick gives advice for younger players and shares some insight into his faith and interest in reading. A great conversation with one of the an...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Senior WR and two-time captain Breyden Smith joins me for his second appearance on the show. We break down the Simpson game, takeaways on offense, and his connection with transfer QB Jimmy Makuh. Breyden also shares advice for younger players, and gives us a look into life off the field—including his connection his younger brother.

A fun conversation with one of the leaders of the Viking offense—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior LB and Captain Dylan Burton ahead of the season opener at Simpson. We talk about his journey back from an ACL injury and how it feels to be back at game speed.

Dylan also shares insights on leadership as a captain, his path as a Geography & GIS major, and his game day routines. Plus, we get into fall camp traditions (hint: Johnny Crawford I hear is a heck of a Karaoke singer), advice for younger players, and what keeps him motivated on and off the...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior Captain Toby Splitt as we get ready for the Vikings’ season opener at Simpson. We break down preparation for week one, the impact of new defensive coaches, and how the secondary is reloading. Toby also reflects on the Loras scrimmage, his expanded role as a captain, and what leadership looks like alongside fellow captains Breyden Smith, Nick Hogan, and Dylan Burton. We dive into his path as a History Education major, game day routines, and offers a piece of advice for underclassmen. It’s a great conversation to k...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I kick off Season 2 with Head Football Coach Steve Bell. Coach reflects on the team’s spring trip to Rome and what that unforgettable experience meant to the players. We also preview fall camp, upcoming scrimmages, and what first year players can expect. Coach Bell shares insight on key returners, transfers, this year’s captains, players to watch this fall, thoughts on D3 bowl games (including Isthmus), scheduling, and what it means to have his son Carter join the staff this year. It’s a packed episode to start the year—tune in! #GoV...

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, we reconnect with Augie alum and current Kansas State Graduate Assistant Josh Wintroub. After pitching for the Wildcats last season, Josh has transitioned into a key analytics role on staff, using his background in data to help drive performance.

We talk about his jump from Division III to Division I, the mindset shift, and how analytics play into player development and strategy. Josh also reflects on his time at Augustana as an All-American Pitcher, memories from the 2022 and 2023 seasons, and the competitions with former teammate Harry Boushele.

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, we catch up with Harrison Boushele, now pitching at the University of Houston. Harry reflects on his transition, from D3 to D1, bouncing back from injury, and his first year at Houston. We talk Augie memories including the 2022 and 2023 championship runs, bible study groups, playing baseball with his brother Hayden, his Colorado roots, and Rockies nostalgia. A great hour with an even better person. Tune in!

On this special Senior Edition of the Vikings Press Pass, all 6x Augustana Softball Seniors—Kennedy, Meghan, Anna, Ally, Hannah, and Rose—join the show to reflect on their incredible journey. From a 4-12 conference record as freshmen to back-to-back 26-win seasons and a #2 seed in the CCIW Tournament, this group has helped transform the program. We talk team chemistry, personal growth, favorite memories (including the Freshman Florida trip and Indiana World Tour mishap), and life after Augie. A must-listen for fans as this tight-knit class gets ready for one last postseason run.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, freshman 1B Aubrey Gradin joins the show! We talk about her journey from Davenport West to Augustana, earning CCIW Hitter of the Week honors, and her hot bat heading into the conference tournament. Plus, we get into her love for Fleetwood Mac, favorite jersey combo, and more!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, 5th-year senior 2B Alec McGinnis joins the show! ⚾ We talk about his decision to return for one more season, hitting for the cycle, becoming Augie’s all-time leader in assists, and his favorite memories.

Plus: we find out he was a former hooper back in HS and he selects his starting x5 from the baseball team. More importantly, we get to hear about his advice for the next class of Vikings, and he takes a few moments and gives thanks to all those that have helped him along the way...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Augie alum Chase Maifield (’23) checks in! 🚀 We talk about his coaching stop at Judson, playing D1 ball at Valpo, facing top-ranked teams, and his favorite Viking memories — including a story about raccoons! 🦝 Plus, Chase is officially kicking off spring training tomorrow with the New Jersey Jackals after a long drive out east! ⚾🔥 Must listen!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, Freshman catcher Alaina Diaz joins me following a dominant doubleheader sweep over Wheaton. We dive into her reaction to being named to the NFCA Division III "Player of the Year" Watch List and what it’s like hitting in the heart of a Vikings offense ranked among the nation’s best.

Alaina also talks about her connection with Coach Nelson, the influence of her parents as role models, and how she gives back by coaching young catchers. Plus, we get the story behind the “Queen of the Diamond” belt. A great...

On Episode 50 of Vikings Press Pass, we celebrate this podcast's 50th Episode milestone with Freshman shortstop Alexis Duke from the Augustana Softball team. Alexis shares what it’s been like making an immediate impact in her first year, including a huge doubleheader performance vs. Wheaton and what it takes to be successful in the leadoff spot (leadoff stats: 11-21, .524 BA, .615 OBP, .857 SLG, 1 HR) We also talk about her path to Augie, why her role model is her older brother, and how her relationship with Coach Nelson solidified her coming to Augustana. From national rankings to team chemistry, it’s a gr...

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior 3B Emma Evans from the Augustana Softball team. We break down a jam-packed week on the diamond that included three doubleheaders and the start of conference play. Emma reflects on key moments from wins over Buena Vista and Millikin, the slugfest with Carthage, and how the team is holding strong at 13-3 overall.

We also explore Emma’s journey from Farmington, Illinois, and how her ACL injury led her down the path of her double major in Kinesiology and Communication. She gives us a prev...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year Senior Alex Simon from the Baseball team. We dive into his decision to return for another season. Alex breaks down his versatility on the field—playing third base, catcher, first base, and DH—and shares his thoughts on the Vikings’ season so far, including their battles in close games. We also discuss the art of switch-hitting, how a childhood game really influenced him to become a switch-hitter. We talk about the lasting mark he leaves statistically at Augustana, but more importantly as a great teammate. Off the field, A...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Emily Gad from the Augustana Softball team. We break down the team’s road-heavy schedule the past week between Tennessee and Florida (JV + Varsity), how that talent compares to the CCIW, and key takeaways from their early-season success. Plus, English Education, the impact and support from her parents, her path to Augustana, Lana Del Rey, and most importantly which teammates are the Ross, Joey, Rachel and Chandlers of the group (HINT: She's a big F.R.I.E.N.D.S. fan). Emily brings the energy on a fu...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by senior Cameron Miller from the Augustana Baseball team. We discuss his pitching style and how he embraces the pressure of closing out games or pitching in high-stakes situations.

Cameron also reflects on the team’s recent trip to the RussMatt Invitational in Florida, comparing the competition there to what they’ll face as they begin CCIW play at North Central tomorrow. Beyond baseball, we dive into his aspirations of becoming a Sheriff’s Deputy, his leadership approach, and his advice for the next generation of bullpen leaders...

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Marley Behm from the Augustana Softball team. The Vikings are off to a dominant 6-0 start, and we dive into what’s been clicking for the team early on. Marley shares her thoughts on the home opener against Coe, the team’s chemistry, and what makes this season feel special.

We also talk about her Colorado roots, the Avalanche winning the Stanley Cup, and a few of her favorite hometown spots: Magill's World of Ice Cream and Coyote Artisan Table. #LetsRide

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year senior Dymitri Kanellakis to break down the Vikings’ 6-4 start to the season, his transition from center to left field, and his motivation for returning for one final year. We dive into the team’s offensive firepower, the maturity of several standout freshmen, his growth as a player, playing at the U of Iowa, and how he prepares for game day. We wrap things up with the Mets, Mike Trout, Barry Bonds, and some words of wisdom for the underclassmen.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, fifth-year senior Michael Aragon joins the show to talk about the team’s trip to Fort Myers for the Gene Cusic Classic, and this past weekend's Augustana Invitational. Michael shares insights on McGraw and Fischer's performance Saturday against Buena Vista; we discuss different field surface types, pitching/catching in various types of weather, how electronics are a part of their in-game strategy, and what it means to climb the Vikings’ all-time putouts list. Plus, we dive into his favorite baseball memories and his advice for younger players.

Fifth-year senior Addison Southwick joins me on the Vikings Press Pass to discuss his decision to return for another season and what motivates him on the mound. We break down the Vikings' start to the season, the pitching rotation, and some fresh names to watch. Addison reflects on his record-setting 2022 season, and the excitement of upcoming trips to Fort Myers and Iowa City (vs the Hawkeyes), where he’ll face some familiar faces from his Northwoods League days.

Plus, we talk about playing in historic Terry Park, working at the Arsenal, favorite baseball memories, and, of course, th...

Junior pitcher Lauren Koster joins me on the Vikings Press Pass to talk about the Vikings' 4-0 start. She shares insights on the team’s evolving culture, impact players, personal and team goals, the process of stepping in to a leadership role, and the moment she believes the team truly began buying in to the coaching staff's vision.

We also dive into her pitching style, what she’s learned from former standout teammate Nadia Ranieri and current pitching coach Dan Fisher, and she walks through the choices she made the past two years for her custom gloves.