Big Rapids, Michigan was the site of one of the most thrilling football matches of the NCAA Division II postseason as the No. 11 Slippery Rock University faced off against the No. 2 Ferris State University Bulldogs. With high stakes and even higher expectations hanging over both teams, fans were treated to a nail-biter filled with momentum swings, tactical brilliance, and heart-stopping performances. Unfortunately for the Rock, their fairy tale run came to an end, as they fell to the Bulldogs 48-38.
Leading for the majority of the game, Slippery Rock's performance was nothing short of stellar during the first half. They marched to the locker room at halftime with what seemed to be a comfortable lead of 38-27, largely fueled by their quarterback Brayden Long, who delivered impressive statistics of 238 passing yards and three touchdowns before the half. On the other side, Ferris State, facing adversity, was battling to regain footing against Slippery Rock's offensive onslaught. Slippery Rock's head coach, Shawn Lutz, noted, "We forced turnovers, we were winning our one-on-ones, and it was a great script. We were 30 minutes away from playing for a national championship.”
But as the second half unfolded, the game took an unexpected turn. Slippery Rock struggled to keep the momentum alive and fell silent on offense, failing to score at all during the final two quarters. More critically, their success on the field was overshadowed by turnovers. The Rock gave the Bulldogs multiple scoring opportunities, including key interceptions thrown by Long after getting deep inside Ferris State territory.
Brayden Long's overall performance was impressive, completing 27 of 48 passes for 398 yards. Despite throwing four interceptions, he did connect with standout receiver Logan Ramper, who caught all three of Long's touchdown passes, finishing with eight catches for 171 yards. Fellow receiver Mike Solomon also played phenomenally, racking up 130 receiving yards on eight receptions. While the loss was disappointing, Coach Lutz expressed pride saying, "They just made plays and we didn’t convert. Everybody is going to be upset, but I am really proud of them.”
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs showcased their own abilities led by quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who seemed to find his stride as the game progressed. Despite struggling initially, Chambliss ended the game with 221 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception. More impressively, he rushed for 124 yards and three touchdowns, displaying dual-threat capabilities. His pivotal runs included impressive 22-yard and 9-yard touchdown runs, bringing Ferris State back to the forefront and eventually leading them to victory.
Ferris State's other star player, Kannon Katzer, turned the tide dramatically with his explosive 69-yard rushing touchdown early in the fourth quarter, marking Ferris State's first lead of the game at 41-38. After being quiet for most of the game, the Bulldogs surged, scoring all of their points after halftime. Coach Lutz lamented, "I thought we had it,” reflecting on his team's missed opportunities and the crushing shift of momentum.
The second half was dominated by Ferris State's defense; they starred by forcing multiple turnovers, including two monumental interceptions within their own end zone during the Rock’s attempts to extend their lead. Coach Lutz remarked, "It wasn’t easy this year, but I respect these guys so much. They found a way.”
This crushing defeat signifies Slippery Rock's fourth loss across NCAA semifinal appearances, as they closed out their season with a commendable record of 12-2, tying for the second-best season finish in program history. They had aspirations of capitalizing on their successful run up to this point, having triumphed over formidable foes including undefeated opponents earlier in the playoffs. It was supposed to be their shot to make history by competing for the national title.
For Ferris State, the victory propels them to the National Championship game, set to be held next Saturday. Their experience shone through, as this marks their sixth semifinal appearance within eight seasons. They are gearing up to face No. 1 ranked Valdosta State, hoping to secure their third national title within four years.
Reflecting on their powerful drive this season, Lutz remained hopeful about the future, stating, "We can play with anybody. We are close. I am just really proud of them.” After the roller-coaster of emotions, including hard-fought victories, crushing defeats, and impressive performances, Slippery Rock is set to regroup and build toward their future ambitions with significant learning experiences gained throughout their playoff run.
