The NCAA Division III Football Committee has recently made a significant announcement. On this day, the field of 40 teams for the 2024 NCAA Division III Football Championship was revealed. The selection process was based on conference results and the NCAA Power Index (NPI), ensuring a fair and competitive tournament.

Key Highlights and Details

Automatic-Qualifying Berths (28 Conferences)

A total of 28 conferences received automatic-qualifying berths. This includes renowned conferences such as the American Rivers Conference with Wartburg, the American Southwest Conference featuring Hardin-Simmons, and the Centennial Conference with Johns Hopkins. Each conference has its own unique set of teams that have earned this prestigious qualification.For instance, in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin, North Central (Illinois) stood out. In the Conference of New England, Endicott made its mark. These teams have demonstrated their excellence on the field and are now set to compete in the championship.

At-Large Berths (12 Teams)

The remaining 12 at-large berths were awarded to teams from institutions that did not win an automatic berth. This diverse group includes teams like Bethel (MN), Carnegie Mellon, Centre, Coe, Grove City, John Carroll, Mary Hardin-Baylor, Texas Lutheran, Trinity (Texas), Ursinus, Whitworth, and Wisconsin-La Crosse. These teams have shown their mettle and are ready to make their mark in the championship.For example, Trinity (Texas) and Mary Hardin-Baylor will face off in San Antonio, Texas. This matchup is sure to be a thrilling encounter as both teams have their own strengths and strategies.

First-Round Sites and Schedules

The Division III Football Committee also announced the 8 first-round sites. La Crosse, Wisconsin will host Wisconsin-La Crosse vs. Northwestern-St. Paul. In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Coe will take on Bethel (Minnesota). Beverly, Massachusetts will see Endicott vs. Alfred St. In Spokane, Washington, Whitworth will battle Pomona-Pitzer. San Antonio, Texas will witness Trinity (TX) vs. Mary Hardin-Baylor. Rome, Georgia will feature Berry vs. Maryville (TN). Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania will see King’s (Pennsylvania) vs. Ursinus. And in University Heights, Ohio, John Carroll will face Mt. St. Joseph. All games start at noon local time, adding to the excitement and anticipation.In the 2023 championship, Cortland defeated North Central (IL) 38-37, claiming their first national championship. This victory serves as an inspiration for the teams competing in the 2024 championship, as they strive to achieve similar success.The fifty-first Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl, the national championship game, will be played on Sunday, January 5, at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN at 7 p.m. Central time, allowing fans from all over to witness the excitement.Each team in the championship has its own story to tell. They have worked hard throughout the season, facing various challenges and overcoming them. Now, they are ready to showcase their skills and compete for the ultimate prize. The 2024 NCAA Division III Football Championship is set to be a memorable event, filled with thrilling games and outstanding performances.