Top 25 Highlights of the 2025 DII Football Season

The 2025 DII football season delivered a remarkable array of highlights that captivated fans and showcased outstanding talent. Ferris State Bulldogs clinched their fourth national championship in five years, solidifying their place in DII football history. Alongside their dominance, the season brimming with record-breaking performances and thrilling moments made it memorable.

Top 25 Highlights of the 2025 DII Football Season

• Ferris State Dominance: Ferris State is now in discussions as one of the greatest dynasties in DII football, having achieved their fourth championship in five seasons. They finished the season on a 30-game winning streak.
• Harding’s Rushing Record: Harding shattered their own rushing record by accumulating 6,943 yards in the season. Andrew Miller and Braden Jay together contributed 50 rushing touchdowns.
• Cole Keylon’s Legacy: Harding’s quarterback Cole Keylon achieved a career record of 51-4, tying the DII record for most wins by a quarterback.
• MSU Moorhead’s Jack Attack: Jack Strand from MSU Moorhead threw for 3,546 yards and led DII with 42 touchdown passes while Gage Florence made history with 402 career receptions.
• Curtis Allen’s Historic Season: Virginia Union’s Curtis Allen became the first HBCU player to win the Harlon Hill Trophy with 2,409 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns.
• HBCU Milestones: The CIAA and SIAC combined to send five teams to the DII football championship, marking a historic accomplishment for HBCUs.
• Freshman Sensations: Freshmen Jeffery Jones and Noah Dobert rushed for over 1,600 yards each, trailing only behind seasoned veterans Allen and Miller.
• Ackerley’s Seven-Touchdown Game: Connor Ackerley set a record with seven touchdown passes in a single game, tied for the best performances of the season.
• Valdosta State’s Resurgence: The Blazers turned around their season from a 2-4 start, winning four straight to make the postseason.
• North Greenville’s Title Win: North Greenville captured the first Conference Carolinas title in their history, defeating UNC Pembroke twice.
• Newberry’s Dramatic Turnaround: Newberry transformed from a struggling team to a semifinalist, marking an incredible comeback season.
• RJ Martinez’s Passing Prowess: West Texas A&M’s RJ Martinez emerged as a top quarterback, throwing for over 4,000 yards in a single season.
• Henderson State Rivalry Victory: Henderson State claimed a decisive 41-14 win over Ouachita Baptist in their storied rivalry.
• Xavier Esquillen’s Defensive Masterclass: Savannah State’s Esquillen recorded five sacks in a game, the highest in DII this season.
• Landon Boss’s Defensive Excellence: Emporia State’s Landon Boss showcased an all-around defensive performance with 11 tackles and multiple turnovers.
• Benedict’s Historic Comeback: Benedict staged a stunning comeback from a 24-point deficit to win their opening playoff game.
• Kickoff Return Records: Israel Hiraldo and Beau Phillips both tied the DII record for kickoff return touchdowns in a single game.
• Cedonyae Lott’s Spectacular Finale: Midwestern State’s Cedonyae Lott had an outstanding final game, with 284 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
• Northwest Missouri State’s Return: The Bearcats rebounded with a strong season, claiming the MIAA regular-season title.
• Chadron State’s Tournament Journey: Chadron State made historic strides by reaching the DII football tournament for the first time since 2012.
• Johnson C. Smith’s Remarkable Turnaround: The Golden Bulls achieved 10 wins and their first CIAA championship in 55 years.
• Ferris State’s Record-Breaking Season: The Bulldogs achieved the first 16-0 record in DII history, scoring 844 points in total.
• Northeastern State’s Improvement: Despite missing the playoffs, Northeastern State dominated their bowl game, demonstrating significant progress.
• Minnesota State’s Steadfast Performance: Minnesota State secured a playoff berth again, showing resilience in tough competition.
• Judd Novak’s Future: Kutztown quarterback Judd Novak announced he would return for another season, poised for further accomplishments.

The 2025 DII football season not only highlighted the prowess of established teams but also showcased up-and-coming talent, creating a thrilling narrative for fans. As the off-season approaches, the anticipation for the next chapter in DII football continues to build.