The top-seeded Valdosta State Blazers (11-0) will face No. 25 Virginia Union (10-3) in the NCAA Division II National Quarterfinals at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. This duel marks the first playoff meeting between the two teams, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals on December 14th. Both teams earned strong wins in the second round, with VSU defeating Miles College 33-17 and VUU dominating Lenoir-Rhyne 44-44. 12. VSU quarterback Sammy Edwards is a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, reinforcing the stakes of this crucial game.

Through the numbers

• Valdosta State has a postseason record of 32-15, while Virginia Union is 2-11 in the playoffs.
• VUU’s Jada Byers rushed for 1,947 yards, ranking second nationally.
• Sammy Edwards has thrown for 2,627 yards this season, ranking 20th nationally in passing yards.

state of affairs

• Valdosta State is on an 11-game winning streak, the longest in the country.
• The Blazers have a 14-4 all-time record in December games, with a perfect 4-0 home record since 2018.
• Virginia Union is making its first postseason appearance with a new coaching staff and looking to build on its historic playoff performances.

What’s next?

The winner of the Valdosta State vs. Virginia Union game will face an opponent in the NCAA semifinals, scheduled for Dec. 14. The semifinals and championship games will determine the next NCAA Division II football champion.

Conclusion

This game not only tests the Blazers’ dominance, but also shows Virginia Union’s potential for an upset. Each team has compelling stories, making this quarterfinal a pivotal moment in the NCAA Division II football playoffs. A win for VSU solidifies their status as a title contender, while VUU looks to continue rewriting their program’s playoff narrative.