DES MOINES, IOWA – The second-ranked Grand View Vikings celebrated Senior Day with a high-stakes match-up against Graceland University, battling for the Heart of America North Division crown. The Yellowjackets struck early to claim an initial lead, but the resilient Vikings fought back, dominating across 60 minutes to clinch a 31-13 victory.

The win secured Grand View's sixth consecutive Heart of America title, a perfect 10-0 regular season record, and their 12th straight berth in the NAIA FCS Playoffs. 

The first quarter of the matchup between Grand View and Graceland saw strong defensive play but a slow offensive start for the Vikings. After the opening touchback, Grand View's offense struggled to gain momentum, with quarterback Jackson Waring's 33-yard pass to Aisea Toki being the only notable highlight before a punt. Graceland, led by Brett Hamilton and Jamon McGlory, made their way into Viking territory, but a chop block penalty stalled the drive. Jacob Collett's 44-yard field goal gave the Yellowjackets a 3-0 lead. Grand View's next possession faltered, and Graceland extended their lead to 10-0 with a 21-yard touchdown pass to McGlory. The Vikings entered the second quarter down by 10, searching for answers.

The second quarter was a whirlwind for Grand View. After an early interception by Waring gave Graceland good field position, the Vikings' defense responded with back-to-back tackles for loss and a sack, forcing a punt. Waring bounced back, leading an 11-play, 70-yard drive capped by a 7-yard rushing touchdown to put Grand View ahead 14-10. Moments later, Aaron Brown forced a fumble, recovered by Cade Sheedy, setting up another scoring opportunity. Though a field goal attempt missed, moments following Kellen Moore's interception would again shift the momentum, allowing Waring to connect with Triston Williams for a 25-yard touchdown pass. Graceland added a field goal as time expired, and the Vikings held a 14-13 lead at halftime.

Grand View took control in the third quarter, outscoring Graceland 14-0. After a touchback, the Vikings' defense dominated, forcing Graceland to punt after a holding penalty and strong stops from John Argo. On the following drive, Waring led a 70-yard series that ended with a 28-yard field goal by Justyn Hamm, extending the lead to 17-13. The defense continued to shine, forcing a three-and-out, with Jackson Filer's tackle for loss setting the tone. Grand View capitalized, with Tate Stine-Smith scoring a two-yard rushing touchdown after an 11-play, 54-yard drive. Moore's second interception of the game, set up Stine-Smith's second touchdown, a 31-yard run, to give the Vikings a commanding 31-13 lead heading into the fourth.

In the fourth quarter, Grand View sealed their victory and claimed their sixth consecutive conference title, securing an automatic berth in the 12th straight NAIA FCS Playoffs. The Vikings' offense kept control, with Tim Nimely and Tate Stine-Smith continuing to power the ground game. Despite a strong defensive stand from Graceland, highlighted by a key stop on 4th-and-3, Grand View's defense also stepped up to prevent any scoring threats. After forcing a Graceland punt, the Vikings' offense moved into Graceland territory in the final minutes, with Kenson Fuller and Peyton Rottinghaus helping to run out the clock and secure the 31-13 win.

TOP-GAME TWEETS
 
 


GAME NOTES

• Grand View recorded 24 first downs, outpacing Graceland's 11.
• The Vikings rushed for 217 yards on 47 attempts, averaging 4.6 yards per carry, while Graceland managed 97 yards on 31 attempts (3.1 avg).
• In the passing game, Grand View completed 11 of 25 passes for 175 yards, while Graceland finished 8 of 20 for 115 yards.
• On total offense, Grand View outgained Graceland 392 yards to 212, averaging 5.4 yards per play.
• Jackson Waring completed 11 of 25 passes for 175 yards and 1 touchdown.
• Tate Stine-Smit led the rushing attack with 87 yards and 2 touchdowns on 14 carries.
• Grand View's defense intercepted 2 passes and allowed just 1 of 11 third down conversions.
• Grand View is now 6-Straight for Heart of America Title under HC Joe Woodley. 

UP NEXT 
With the win and their perfect record, the Vikings have secured a first-round bye in the 2024 NAIA FCS Championship Series. The selection show will be held on Sunday, November 17th at 6:00 PM CT on the NAIA Network. Click here to watch the show and learn about the first-round match-ups, as well as the Vikings' potential second-round opponents.