RiverHawks head to Rolla looking for revenge after last year's loss to Miners

The Northeastern State University football team, the RiverHawks, are heading to Rolla, Missouri for their first road game of the season against Missouri S&T, the Miners. This will be the RiverHawks' second game of the season, and they are eager to avenge their loss to the Miners from last year. After starting the season with a Week 0 victory over Delta State, the RiverHawks aim to begin the campaign with a 2-0 record for the first time since 2002 when they traveled to Rolla.

During the season opener, the RiverHawks showcased a well-rounded attack, with quarterback Donnie Smith contributing 319 yards through the air, while the rushing offense added 200 yards and over 40 yards on the ground. The defense also proved dominant, allowing only 69 total yards of offense. Sophomore wide receiver Cam Jackson expressed his team's determination, stating that "That game is very personal," as they believe they should have won the 2022 contest against the Miners. As such, they are determined to secure a win in the upcoming match.

Head coach Darrin Chiaverini emphasized the importance of maintaining their strong form, stating that the team must continue playing excellent football and run both the ball and stop the opponent on defense. Last season, Smith completed 16 of 25 passes for 184 yards, while Ramon McKinney Jr. amassed 186 of the team's 202 rushing yards and scored a touchdown. Defensively, the RiverHawks recorded four interceptions, including a standout 100-yard touchdown run by Michael Esparza.

When discussing the upcoming match, Chiaverini highlighted the Miners' return to form and their improved roster, asserting that the RiverHawks need to step up their game after their subpar performance against the Miners last season. The Miners kick off the game at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 5.