Mount Union Demolishes Muhlenberg 42-0 in DIII Football Playoffs Second Round Blitz

The NCAA Division III football playoffs intensified today. Sixteen second-round games decided which teams advance to the national quarterfinals. Powerhouses like Mount Union, Susquehanna, and Johns Hopkins all secured decisive victories.

This critical weekend narrows the field from 32 teams to just 16. The action unfolded on campus sites across the country.

Top Seeds Show Dominance in Early Action

Mount Union, the No. 2 seed, delivered a stunning performance. They shut out Muhlenberg with a final score of 42-0. The Purple Raiders’ defense was impenetrable from start to finish.

According to NCAA records, Mount Union now holds a 116-22 all-time playoff record. Their victory sends a clear message to the rest of the bracket.

Susquehanna, seeded 22nd, also powered through. They defeated Christopher Newport 28-7. The River Hawks’ win marks a significant achievement for the program.

Johns Hopkins Advances With Defensive Strength

Johns Hopkins, the No. 8 seed, earned a hard-fought win. They beat Springfield College 20-7. Their defense provided crucial stops throughout the contest.

The Blue Jays are seeking redemption this postseason. They lost a close semifinal game to Mount Union last year. This victory keeps their championship hopes alive.

The playoff format heavily favors higher seeds with home-field advantage. This provides a tangible boost for teams that performed well during the regular season.

The Road to the Stagg Bowl Intensifies

All winners from today’s games advance to the quarterfinals. Those games are scheduled for December 13. The national semifinals will follow on December 20.

The season culminates with the Stagg Bowl championship on January 4, 2026. Defending champion North Central (Illinois) is also in action today. The entire football community is watching to see if they can repeat their success.

The Division III football playoffs continue to deliver high-stakes drama. Mount Union’s commanding performance establishes them as the team to beat.

Info at your fingertips

How does the Division III football playoff bracket work?

The tournament starts with 32 teams. It includes 27 automatic qualifiers and 13 at-large bids. Teams are eliminated each round until the Stagg Bowl.

Which team is the favorite to win the national championship?

Mount Union and North Central (Illinois) are considered top contenders. Both teams have impressive records and championship pedigrees. Their potential matchup is highly anticipated.

When is the Division III national championship game?

The Stagg Bowl is scheduled for January 4, 2026. It will crown the national champion. The game is the culmination of the multi-week playoff.

How many national championships has Mount Union won?

Mount Union holds an NCAA record with 13 national championships. They have appeared in the Stagg Bowl 23 times since 1993. Their program is a Division III dynasty.