newberry ferris state became the focal point of the NCAA Division II football landscape on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, as Ferris State delivered a commanding 49–17 win over Newberry in the national semifinal at Top Taggart Field in Big Rapids, Michigan. The victory sent the Bulldogs back to the Division II national championship game and extended one of the most dominant runs in program history.
Ferris State entered the semifinal unbeaten and left no doubt about its readiness for the sport’s biggest stage. By combining early offensive efficiency, a relentless rushing attack, and a defense that capitalized on mistakes, the Bulldogs controlled the game’s rhythm and steadily pulled away from a Newberry team that fought but could not overcome turnovers.
Fast Start Sets the Tone in Big Rapids
Ferris State wasted little time asserting control. The Bulldogs struck quickly in the opening quarter, scoring three touchdowns to build a 21–7 advantage. That early surge immediately placed Newberry in a reactive position, forcing the Wolves to open up their offense sooner than planned.
The opening minutes showcased Ferris State’s physical approach. Crisp execution on offense paired with disciplined defense allowed the Bulldogs to dictate field position and tempo. While Newberry managed to get on the board late in the first quarter, Ferris State’s confidence never wavered.
Newberry Pushes Back, Momentum Briefly Shifts
Despite the early deficit, Newberry refused to fold. The Wolves found a rhythm in the second quarter, putting together scoring drives that narrowed the gap and shifted momentum for a short stretch.
When Newberry closed the score to 21–17, the semifinal suddenly felt competitive. The Wolves’ sideline energy grew, and the possibility of a dramatic swing loomed. For a moment, Ferris State faced its stiffest test of the postseason.
That moment proved decisive.
Bulldogs Respond With Authority Before Halftime
Elite teams often reveal themselves when challenged, and Ferris State responded with precision. The Bulldogs answered Newberry’s surge by scoring twice more before halftime, rebuilding a commanding 35–17 lead.
Those late-second-quarter scores changed the entire complexion of the game. Instead of entering the locker room with pressure mounting, Ferris State walked off with momentum firmly in hand. Newberry, meanwhile, faced the difficult task of needing a near-perfect second half against a team that had not lost all season.
Turnovers Become the Defining Factor
One of the clearest differences in the semifinal came through turnovers. Newberry quarterback Reed Charpia threw five interceptions, and each takeaway drained momentum from the Wolves while energizing Ferris State.
Some interceptions came during promising Newberry drives, erasing chances to tighten the score. Others set up short fields that allowed Ferris State to capitalize quickly. The Bulldogs did not waste those opportunities, turning defensive stops into points.
Ball security and defensive awareness became the separating line between the two teams as the game progressed.
Rushing Depth Powers Ferris State Offense
Ferris State’s rushing attack once again proved to be a cornerstone of its success. Rather than relying on a single ball carrier, the Bulldogs rotated backs effectively, keeping legs fresh and the defense off balance.
Several runners delivered standout performances:
- Carson Gulker led the way with 115 rushing yards
- Jake Price added 85 yards with consistent gains
- Chase Carter chipped in 69 yards, often in key situations
This balanced ground game allowed Ferris State to control the clock, sustain drives, and limit Newberry’s opportunities. With the Bulldogs consistently winning at the line of scrimmage, the Wolves struggled to regain momentum.
Offensive Efficiency Creates Separation
Ferris State finished the game with 511 total yards, compared with Newberry’s 392. The yardage difference reflected more than just volume; it highlighted efficiency.
Ferris State turned drives into touchdowns and avoided the mistakes that plagued Newberry. Even when the Wolves managed to move the ball, drives often stalled due to interceptions or pressure situations. Ferris State, on the other hand, remained composed and productive.
Short fields created by turnovers further widened the gap, making it difficult for Newberry to stay within striking distance.
Defensive Discipline Limits Second-Half Threats
After halftime, Ferris State shifted into control mode. The Bulldogs did not need explosive plays; they needed discipline, execution, and patience. The defense delivered exactly that.
Newberry attempted to mount a second-half response but struggled to string together clean possessions. Ferris State’s defense tightened coverage, limited big plays, and continued forcing risky throws.
Each defensive stand shortened the game and reinforced Ferris State’s grip on the semifinal.
Heated Moments Fail to Disrupt Bulldogs’ Focus
The intensity of a national semifinal brought emotional moments, including a post-play scuffle that resulted in multiple ejections. While tensions briefly flared, Ferris State remained locked in.
The Bulldogs avoided letting emotion derail execution. Instead, they returned focus to fundamentals, ensuring the incident did not shift momentum or discipline.
That composure under pressure underscored Ferris State’s experience on the playoff stage.
Cold Conditions, Strong Crowd Atmosphere
The game unfolded in frigid December conditions at Top Taggart Field, adding a physical edge to an already demanding contest. Attendance was listed at 1,089, with fans braving the cold to witness a pivotal playoff matchup.
Ferris State appeared comfortable in the environment, feeding off the home crowd and using familiarity with the conditions to its advantage.
Newberry’s Season Ends After Breakthrough Year
Newberry entered the semifinal with a 12–2 record and one of the strongest seasons in program history. Reaching the national semifinal marked a significant achievement for the Wolves, reflecting growth and resilience throughout the year.
The Wolves showed fight by cutting a large early deficit into a one-score game. However, turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately proved too costly against an opponent as disciplined as Ferris State.
Despite the loss, Newberry’s performance throughout the season set a foundation for future success and elevated the program’s national profile.
Ferris State’s Winning Streak Continues
With the victory, Ferris State improved to 15–0 and extended its winning streak to 29 games. The Bulldogs’ consistency across multiple seasons has established them as a powerhouse in Division II football.
This semifinal win followed a familiar script: fast start, resilience during a challenge, dominance in the trenches, and strong defensive execution. It also reinforced Ferris State’s ability to win games in different ways, whether through explosive offense or controlled, physical play.
Championship Matchup Now Set
Ferris State’s reward is a return trip to the NCAA Division II national championship game. The Bulldogs will face Harding, which earned its spot by defeating Kutztown 49–27 in the other semifinal.
The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, in McKinney, Texas, with a 4 p.m. ET kickoff on ESPN2. Both teams enter unbeaten, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.
Why Ferris State Enters With Confidence
Ferris State’s path to the title game has been defined by balance. The Bulldogs can control games on the ground, capitalize on turnovers, and respond calmly when challenged.
Against Newberry, that balance was on full display. The offense adjusted when momentum shifted, the defense delivered game-changing plays, and the team maintained composure throughout four quarters.
Those traits will be critical against a Harding team that also demonstrated scoring power and efficiency in its semifinal win.
What to Watch in the Title Game
As preparation begins, key storylines emerge. Ferris State’s depth at running back and ability to force turnovers could shape the championship game’s tempo. Protecting the football and finishing drives will be essential against a fellow unbeaten opponent.
Travel, recovery, and focus will also play roles as both teams shift from emotional semifinal victories to the final challenge of the season.
A Statement Win That Resonates Beyond One Game
For fans following newberry ferris state, the semifinal served as more than just another playoff result. It was a statement of intent from a program that expects to compete for championships and has built the structure to do so year after year.
Ferris State’s performance reflected preparation, depth, and confidence—qualities that do not fade under pressure. As the Bulldogs head to Texas, they carry momentum from a semifinal that showcased exactly why they belong on college football’s biggest Division II stage.
With the championship just days away, the question now is simple: can anyone stop Ferris State from adding another national title to its growing legacy?