Cortland Football First-Ever Div. III National Championship Win

Cortland Red Dragons Football wins NCAA Division III National Championship in a thrilling 38-37 victory over North Central.

The Cortland Red Dragons Football team achieved an incredible victory, emerging as the champions of the NCAA Division III National Championship. This momentous win came after a thrilling and high-scoring game against top-seeded North Central, culminating in a 38-37 victory for Cortland at Salem Stadium in Salem, VA.

The game began with a scoreless first 29 minutes, but both teams quickly ignited their offenses, resulting in a fast-paced and action-packed contest. Cortland's quarterback, Zac Boyce, played a pivotal role in leading the team to victory, showcasing his exceptional skills by throwing for 349 yards, scoring five touchdowns, and rushing for 123 yards. Boyce's outstanding performance throughout the season had already established him as a formidable force, with an impressive completion rate of 71.8% and a total of 39 touchdowns.

On the opposing side, North Central entered the game as the top-ranked Division III team, with quarterback DeAngelo Hardy leading their formidable lineup.

The first half saw North Central take a 7-3 lead, setting the stage for a closely contested battle. Both teams traded successful scoring drives, with the game tied at 31-31 in the final minutes. Cortland then surged ahead with a crucial touchdown and extra point, bringing the score to 38-31 with just 1:20 remaining.

However, North Central quickly responded, as DeAngelo Hardy executed a remarkable 60-yard run for a touchdown, narrowing the gap to 38-37. Opting for a 2-point conversion attempt to secure the win, North Central faced a resilient Cortland defense that ultimately prevented them from reaching the end zone. Following an unsuccessful onside kick by North Central, Cortland expertly managed the clock to secure their historic victory.

This triumph marked Cortland's first-ever National Championship, a monumental achievement for the team. North Central, a reigning back-to-back national title holder, had not suffered a defeat since December of 2021, making this victory even more significant.

Both Cortland and North Central concluded their seasons with impressive 14-1 records, showcasing their exceptional talent and determination throughout the championship game. This victory will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in Cortland's football history, solidifying their status as champions on the national stage.