BIG RAPIDS, Mich. – Ferris State University displayed resilience and determination as they staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Slippery Rock University 48-38, securing their spot in the NCAA Division II National Championship. This victory marks Ferris State's third appearance in the championship game in the past four years, aiming for another title after their previous victories.
With the win, Ferris State improves to 13-1 for the season and advances to face Valdosta State University next Saturday. The Bulldogs faced a challenging first half, trailing 38-27 at halftime, but stormed back without allowing any points to Slippery Rock after the break.
Slippery Rock got off to a scorching start, propelled by their standout quarterback Brayden Long. He connected with Logan Ramper for three touchdown receptions—establishing the Rock's early 21-7 lead. Long completed 27-of-48 passes for 398 yards and threw three touchdowns during the match, but also faced the sting of four interceptions, two of which were pivotal as they happened in the end zone, halting potential scores.
Ferris State struggled offensively early, but their breakthrough moment came from their defensive unit late in the second quarter when Justin Payoute returned an interception for a touchdown, leveling the game at 7-7. Despite the momentum swing, Ferris State continued to search for their rhythm against Slippery Rock's dynamic passing attack.
“This was going to sting for a long time,” said Slippery Rock coach Shawn Lutz after the game, reflecting on his team’s missed opportunities. "If we score a touchdown there and go up 18 points, we probably win this game.” Indeed, after Slippery Rock initially gained the upper hand, the playoff matchup was filled with fluctuated momentum.
Entering the second half down by 11 points, Ferris State coach Tony Annese adjusted the team’s strategy. "We’re just happy to be heading to Texas... I said, let’s just think about it as a 0-0 game, even though we’re down 11," he explained afterward. This mindset change proved effective.
The Bulldogs dominated the second half, scoring three touchdowns to secure their comeback victory. Notably, Kannon Katzer's impressive 69-yard touchdown run at 12:26 left paved the way for Ferris taking the lead with Chambliss contributing with multiple rushing scores, including the decisive touchdown run with eight minutes remaining.
Ferris State's defense tightened up significantly, forcing four turnovers throughout the game, two coming late during Slippery Rock's drives when they were threatening to score. This turning point was pivotal, not just for Ferris State’s confidence but also for Slippery Rock, who had to contend with the mounting pressure of missed chances.
Statistically, Ferris State's balance on offense was evident; they achieved 513 yards of total offense with an impressive 292 yards on the ground. Trinidad Chambliss led the Bulldogs offensively, passing for 221 yards and contributing three rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat abilities.
While Slippery Rock managed to score 38 points, it was not enough to outlast Ferris State’s second-half resurgence. The Rock’s strong start was overshadowed by their inability to convert touchdowns when it mattered most, as evidenced by their performance within the red zone after halftime.
Looking back, Lutz expressed: “We showed we can play with any team in the country. This one hurts, but we’ll be back next year to try it again.” The Rock has not reached the Division II Championship game yet, falling to 0-4 all-time in NCAA semifinal matchups.
With this victory, Ferris State rekindles hopes for another national title as all eyes are turned toward the championship match against Valdosta State. Will this be another successful bid for the Bulldogs or will the opposing team thwart their chances? Fans will eagerly await the conclusion this coming Saturday.
