The first weekend of the NCAA Division 2 and 3 playoffs now brings an added dimension. With the infusion of bowl games, the sport at these levels is flourishing more than ever. Essentially, all four corners of the sport are enjoying the benefits of these bowl games. While some detractors may question their importance, for many of these athletes, bowl games offer a chance to wear the jersey one last time and close out their football careers on a winning note. For those who have played the game since their youth, that still holds significant meaning.
Photo Cred: St. Norbet College
Momentum Means More
When St. Norbert College faced off against Monmouth (IL) in the Cousin’s Lakefront Bowl, it was a tale of two teams. SNC, after a tough start to the season with three straight losses, wanted to end 2024 on a high note. The Green Knights, known for their stingy defense and punishing run game, were determined to battle it out in the trenches. On the other side, Monmouth held a significant physical advantage across the line of scrimmage on both sides.
Yet, SNC refused to back down. The Knights disrupted game plans, making life difficult for quarterback Brayden Deem. SNC’s defense applied constant pressure, forcing two interceptions. On paper, Monmouth seemed to have the upper hand, but as we know, games aren’t played on paper. On a bitterly cold day in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, St. Norbert’s game plan proved effective. Patrick Oden carried the ball 32 times for 153 yards and a touchdown, while Kyle Santos earned MVP honors with 15 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and a sack.
Effort
Despite the loss, Monmouth College’s coaching staff instills a remarkable level of effort in their players. Standout defender Tevin Baker scooped up and scored on a muffed punt. As he ran, SNC attempted to tackle him, but Baker managed to stay on his feet despite a few stumbles, regaining his balance and eventually reaching the end zone. Similarly, despite being a little hobbled from injury, Jackson Bergren, a member of the Monmouth offense, spent much of the game riding the exercise bike to stay loose in the freezing temperatures. In a world where players might choose to sit out, Bergren pushed through the pain to get on the field and contribute. This level of devotion cannot be bought or sold. Head Coach Chad Braun and his staff have set a standard that the team strives to meet every fall.
Working Together
The Division 3 commissioners form a remarkably tight-knit group. While they all exhibit loyalty to their respective conferences, there is also a noticeable level of cooperation. A few key commissioners decided to collaborate on events that not only drew significant interest but also demonstrated a mutual respect and trust that is rare in sports. Brad Bankston (ODAC) and Katie Boldvich (Landmark) joined forces to bring the Chesapeake Challenge to life last season. This year, Salem, Virginia, hosted the Cape Henry and Cape Charles Bowls.
In the Cape Henry Bowl, Washington and Lee defeated Wilkes 40-21, fueled by 71 carries for 382 yards. In the nightcap, Moravian quarterback Jared Jenkins threw for 309 yards and five touchdowns, leading his team to a 35-14 win over Shenandoah. The collaborative efforts of Bankston, Boldvich, and others prove that working together without ego can elevate athletics. If only other levels of athletics would follow their lead. With similar cooperation from the MACC/Midwest, NEWMAC/CNE, and MAC/Centennial conferences, the hope remains for further football bowl games.
SID
Any responsible media member will tell you they have a deep respect for sports information directors (SIDs). These tireless professionals are the ones who facilitate access to coaches and players. Without them, the connection between fans and programs would be far more limited. SIDs remain the underappreciated conduits through which crucial information flows. They embody the best qualities of college sports, ensuring that the hard work and dedication of athletes and coaches reach the public.
