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Ferris State didn’t just win another national championship; the Bulldogs overpowered, out-executed, and overwhelmed an undefeated Harding team on the biggest stage in Division II football.
When the final whistle blew, Ferris State stood alone once again, cruising to a 42–21 victory, completing a perfect 16–0 season, and capturing its fourth Division II national championship in five years.
A Championship That Slipped Away Early
Harding entered the title game unbeaten and built around one of the most physically dominant rushing attacks in Division II history. For a brief stretch, it looked like the Bisons might turn the game into a grind.
Ferris State had other plans.
After weathering the opening minutes, the Bulldogs struck twice in the first quarter and seized control. By halftime, Ferris State held a 21–14 lead, and the momentum had already swung firmly in their favor.
Then came the knockout blow.
Third Quarter Avalanche Ends It
The Bulldogs exploded coming out of the locker room, unleashing a 21-point third quarter that turned a competitive championship into a rout.
Big plays. Clean execution. Total control.
Harding briefly closed the gap with a kickoff return touchdown, but Ferris State responded immediately — again and again — stretching the lead to 42–21 by the end of the third quarter.
From there, it was academic.
Ferris State Standouts
Ferris State’s dominance was fueled by a balanced, relentless offensive attack led by quarterback Wyatt Bower, who delivered a championship-caliber performance. Bower finished with 177 passing yards and two touchdown passes, while also adding three rushing touchdowns to put constant pressure on Harding’s defense. The Bulldogs piled up 363 rushing yards, with Chase Carter providing a massive spark by ripping off 111 yards on just seven carries, including a back-breaking 64-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter. Carson Gulker made his impact felt all over the field, hauling in three receptions for 52 yards and a touchdown, while Cam Underwood added four catches for 50 yards and a score. Up front, Ferris State’s offensive line controlled the game from start to finish, helping the Bulldogs average 9.8 yards per play and roll up 585 total yards in one of the most complete championship performances in Division II history.
Historic Numbers From a Historic Team
Ferris State didn’t just win — they made history.
- Final Record: 16–0
- National Titles: 4 in the last 5 seasons
- Winning Streak: 30 straight games (dating back to 2024)
- Points Scored in 2025: 844 — a new NCAA single-season record
Against Harding, the Bulldogs piled up:
- 585 total yards
- 9.8 yards per play
- 26 first downs
They controlled the trenches, won situational football, and delivered when it mattered most.
Harding Fought — Ferris Finished
To Harding’s credit, the Bisons showed why they reached the title game, rushing for more than 240 yards and fighting to the end.
But Ferris State’s defense came up big at the biggest moments — including a fourth-quarter fumble recovery inside the red zone that officially sealed the championship.
In a clash of elite programs, Ferris State was simply better in every phase.
A Dynasty That Keeps Growing
At this point, the conversation is over.
Ferris State isn’t just the top program in Division II — it’s a dynasty.
Four titles in five years.
Thirty straight wins.
Records shattered.
A culture built to dominate.
Final Score:
Ferris State 42, Harding 21
The road to the Division II crown still runs through Big Rapids — and once again, the Bulldogs proved it.
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Don Drysdale
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