Jan 4, 2026- Canton Ohio
Photographer Lucas S.
At halftime of the 2026 Stagg Bowl the national championship remains tightly contested as North Central holds a narrow 14 to 10 lead over UW River Falls at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.
North Central struck first in the opening quarter taking a 7 to 3 lead and setting the tone early with efficient offense and disciplined execution. UW River Falls responded with resilience keeping the game within reach and showing why this season has already been historic for the Falcons.
The biggest moment for River Falls in the first half came in the second quarter when quarterback Kaleb Blaha delivered a key completion to the left side hitting Jake Hilton for 36 yards and moving the ball to the UW River Falls 47 yard line for a first down. The play injected life into the Falcon offense and stood as their most impactful gain of the half.
With two minutes remaining in the second quarter North Central extended its advantage to 14 to 10 maintaining control but leaving the door open heading into halftime. Clock management became crucial late in the half as UW River Falls used its first timeout with eight seconds remaining while North Central was left with one timeout of its own.
In the closing moments North Central looked poised to add to its lead from the 20 yard line. However the momentum shifted instantly when the Cardinals quarterback threw a pass intended for Grant McAtee that was intercepted by number 16 Taylor with eight seconds left in the quarter. The takeaway sent UW River Falls into the locker room with confidence and belief very much alive.
As the teams head to halftime the championship is far from decided.
North Central leads but UW River Falls has proven it can match the moment. With history on the line and only four quarters separating one team from a national title the second half promises intensity drama and a fight to the final whistle.