Harding Dominates National Championship to Claim First Division II Title
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 MattersHarding'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.
- 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.
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 LineHarding 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.
Read more at Harding University Athletics
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