UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. - The Saginaw Valley State University football team entered the AFCA NCAA DII Top-25 Coaches Poll for the first time since 2019 at No. 23 in the country after a dominant performance at home last weekend against No. 9 Bowie State University.

The Cardinals (2-0) turn their focus to rival Northwood University (2-0) for the annual Axe Bowl at 1 pm on Saturday in Midland, Mich.

Against Bowie State last weekend, the Cardinals intercepted the first Bulldog pass of the game setting up the first score, and after a blocked punt, the Cardinals found the endzone again for the quick two-score lead. SVSU dominated on the ground with 323 yards rushing and rolled to a 40-12 win to open the season 2-0.

Through two games, the Cardinals are averaging 56 points per game, controlling the game on the ground with 347.5 yards rushing per contest, including 13 touchdowns.

The SVSU defense, which led the nation in defensive takeaways a year ago, had forced five turnovers, while the special teams have already blocked two kicks.

In the team's first season in the GMAC, Northwood has started 2-0, including a 38-0 win over NAIA opponent Madonna University last weekend at home. SVSU has won the last three meetings in the Axe Bowl, including a 31-13 victory at home last season.

CLICK HERE for full Northwood Game Notes

Week Three vs. Northwood preview interview with Head Coach Ryan Brady Below: