Jan 4, 2026- Canton, Ohio
Photos- Lucas S.
UW River Falls made history on Sunday night capturing the first national championship in program history with a 24 to 14 victory over North Central in the 2026 Stagg Bowl at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.
The first half was tightly contested. North Central opened the scoring and held a 7 to 3 lead after the first quarter setting the tone early with championship experience. UW River Falls stayed composed and found its biggest spark of the half in the second quarter when quarterback Kaleb Blaha completed a 36 yard pass to Jake Hilton on the left side moving the ball to the River Falls 47 yard line for a first down. The play stood as the Falcons most impactful gain of the opening half.
With two minutes remaining before halftime North Central maintained a narrow 14 to 10 advantage. Late clock management became critical as UW River Falls used its first timeout with eight seconds left while North Central had one remaining. The Cardinals looked poised to extend their lead from the 20 yard line but the momentum shifted instantly when a pass intended for Grant McAtee was intercepted by number 16 Taylor with eight seconds left. The takeaway sent both teams into the locker room with belief swinging toward the Falcons.
The second half belonged to UW River Falls.
With 2 minutes and 51 seconds remaining Kaleb Blaha kept the ball on a quarterback keeper rushing up the middle for seven yards and a touchdown. Justin followed with the extra point to give River Falls a 17 to 14 lead their first lead of the night. Justin then kicked off 51 yards from the River Falls 35 to the North Central 14 where Myles returned it to the 31 yard line.
Moments later with 8 minutes and 50 seconds left North Central quarterback Garrett threw a pass to the left that was intercepted by Jack Olson at the North Central 27 intended for Thomas. The turnover proved decisive.
Just six seconds later at the 8 minute 44 second mark Blaha struck again keeping the ball up the middle for another touchdown pushing the River Falls lead to 24 to 14. The Falcons defense held firm the rest of the way sealing the win and closing out one of the most historic nights in Division III football.
As the final seconds expired UW River Falls officially secured its first national championship crowning the Falcons as the 2026 NCAA Division III champions. A season defined by belief resilience and breakthrough ended with a title and a moment that will live forever in program history.
During the post game conference, North Centrals Head Coach Spencer said “ We’re 0-2 here…. Were ready to leave”
Despite the loss, the team still kept their head high, We unfortunately did not have time to catch the 2026 NCAA Champions.
This coverage was brought to you by Tyrone & Lucas in Canton Ohio.