Harding University secured a dominant 38-7 victory over Colorado School of Mines in the NCAA Division II National Championship game, securing their first national title and finishing the 2023 season ranked No. 1 in the final AFCA Division II Coaches' Top 25 Poll.

Why It Matters

Harding's impressive performance and top ranking mark a historic achievement for the team, signaling their status as a dominant force in Division II football and solidifying their place in the college football landscape.

By the Numbers
  • Harding University's rushing attack amassed an impressive 502 yards in the championship game.
  • It was the ninth time Harding finished a season ranked in the top 25, with the previous high being No. 6 in 2016 and 2017.
State of Play
  • Harding University clinched the No. 1 spot in the final AFCA Division II Coaches' Top 25 Poll.
  • Colorado School of Mines dropped to No. 2 following their loss to Harding in the championship game.
  • Grand Valley State (Mich.) and Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.), both defeated by Harding in the playoffs, finished the season at three and four, respectively.
What's Next

Harding University's victory positions them as a team to watch in future seasons, while other top-ranked teams will likely strategize and aim to dethrone the reigning champion in the coming years.

Bottom Line

Harding University's decisive win and ascension to the No. 1 ranking underscore their emergence as a powerhouse in Division II football, setting the stage for a potentially impactful and successful future for the team.