North Central Wins NCAA Division III Football Championship

North Central College claimed its third NCAA Division III football championship with a 41-25 victory over Mount Union in the Stagg Bowl on Sunday night at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston. The game, broadcast on ESPN, marked North Central’s fifth consecutive appearance in the championship game, excluding the canceled 2020 COVID season.

The Cardinals, who also won national titles in 2019 and 2022, were led by quarterback Luke Lehnen, who threw for multiple touchdowns, including a crucial 12-yard pass to Jacob Paradee with 2:32 remaining to seal the victory. Lehnen’s performance included a 16-yard touchdown run and a 24-yard touchdown pass to Myles Walton, helping North Central overcome an early 7-0 deficit.

Mount Union, making its record 23rd Stagg Bowl appearance, sought to add to its NCAA-record 13 national championships but fell short. The Purple Raiders’ last title came in 2017. Despite a strong effort from quarterback TJ DeShields, who connected with Jerry Cooper for a 54-yard touchdown, Mount Union could not overcome North Central’s relentless offense and defensive stops.

The game featured several pivotal moments, including a missed 36-yard field goal by Mount Union’s Ivan Maric and a failed fourth-down attempt deep in North Central territory. North Central’s defense held firm, while its offense capitalized on opportunities, including a 66-yard touchdown run by Charles Coleman in the fourth quarter.

With the win, North Central solidified its status as a Division III powerhouse, while Mount Union’s quest for a 14th national title continues. The Cardinals’ victory capped a dominant season and extended their streak of success in the Stagg Bowl.