Ferris State football hosts Newberry in an intense NCAA Division II national semifinal on December 13, 2025. The top-seeded Bulldogs (14-0) look to advance to the championship game from their home at Top Taggart Field. This matchup features defending national champions clashing with a red-hot Newberry squad chasing history.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ferris State enters undefeated at 14-0 as the #1 national seed and defending 2024 D2 champion
- Newberry brings a 12-1 record as the #4 regional seed from South Carolina
- Game time: Saturday, December 13 at 12:00 PM EST (9:00 AM PST) on ESPN+
- This is Ferris State’s eighth NCAA D2 national semifinal appearance in school history
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The Bulldogs have dominated Division II football for over a decade. Ferris State compiled a stunning 136-14 record in the last 10 years while capturing three national championships (2021, 2022, 2024). Head coach Tony Annese has led an 11-year playoff streak, the longest active in NCAA Division II.
Ferris State’s playoff run has been impressive this season. The top seed crushed Minnesota State 52-29 in the quarterfinals, proving their dominant offense can perform when playoffs demand it most. The Bulldogs controlled every round of competition en route to this semifinal showdown.
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Newberry represents South Carolina with a respectable 12-1 record earned through hard-nosed playoff football. The Wolves have advanced through multiple rounds to reach this national semifinal. Newberry defeated West Florida and Albany State to earn a shot at Ferris State’s undefeated season.
The #4 seed plays with grit and determination. Newberry’s secondary, led by capable defensive backs, attempted to disrupt opponent quarterbacks throughout the playoffs. Their ability to compete in close contests demonstrates resilience against top-tier competition.
Head-to-Head Comparison and Key Storylines
| Category | Ferris State | Newberry |
| Record | 14-0 (undefeated) | 12-1 (one loss) |
| Seeding | #1 National Seed | #4 Regional Seed |
| Championship History | 3 titles in 5 years (2021, 2022, 2024) | First D2 National semifinal appearance |
| Head-to-Head History | No prior meetings between these programs | |
| Location Advantage | Home game at Top Taggart Field (Big Rapids, MI) | Traveling to Michigan |
These programs have never met before, making this semifinal a true March Madness-style clash of unknowns. Ferris State’s elite defense will face Newberry’s determined offensive scheme for the first time, creating intrigue about matchup advantages.
Tim Anderson Named D2’s Best as Ferris State Dominates Awards
Ferris State standout Tim Anderson claimed the prestigious 2025 Gene Upshaw Award, honoring the nation’s best Division II player. This award highlights Ferris State’s ability to develop elite talent season after season. A region-best eight FSU football standouts earned 2025 Division II All-America honors.
The individual accolades reflect Ferris State’s organizational excellence. When a program produces eight All-Americans, it signals complete roster depth and coaching expertise. Anderson’s award-winning performance exemplifies the quality of players suiting up for the Bulldogs in this semifinal matchup.
What’s at Stake in This D2 Football Showdown?
The winner advances directly to the NCAA Division II National Championship Game on December 20, 2025 in McKinney, Texas. For Ferris State, a victory maintains the possibility of a fourth national title in six years. For Newberry, a stunning upset would secure the school’s first-ever D2 national championship.
Ferris State enters as a massive favorite with their undefeated record and home-field advantage. However, playoff football produces unexpected results, and Newberry’s ability to reach this round proves their resilience. The Wolves have already exceeded expectations by making a national semifinal appearance.
Watch the Preview:
Sources
- ESPN – Live game coverage and official scheduling
- NCAA.com – Tournament bracket and official championship information
- Ferris State Athletics – Official team news and player award announcements
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.