In a thrilling NCAA Division II semifinal matchup, the Kutztown Golden Bears faced off against the formidable Harding Bisons on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Andre Reed Stadium in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. The game, which was expected to be a nail-biter, unfortunately, ended in a decisive 49-20 victory for Harding, leaving the Golden Bears just short of a trip to the national championship game.
The Golden Bears, who entered the matchup with an impressive 14-0 record, were no strangers to big games. This was their second semifinal appearance in three years, and they were hungry for a spot in the national championship. However, the Bisons, ranked No. 2 in the nation, had different plans. Harding, known for their dominant rushing offense and stingy defense, jumped out to a commanding 21-0 lead early in the game. They added to this momentum, ultimately securing a 49-27 win over the Golden Bears.
Harding's offense was a force to be reckoned with, led by Andrew Miller, who rushed for an impressive 157 yards and four touchdowns. Miller's performance was complemented by Cole Keylon and Braden Jay, who scored two and one touchdowns, respectively. The Bisons' rushing attack, which has shattered NCAA records with 6,308 rushing yards and 80 rushing touchdowns this season, was simply too much for the Golden Bears to handle.
Despite the loss, Kutztown's season has been nothing short of historic. The team's resilient performance throughout the season has captured the attention of college football fans nationwide. The Golden Bears' journey to the semifinals has showcased their talent, determination, and the deep-rooted passion of the Kutztown University community. The team's ability to compete at the highest level, even in the face of a dominant opponent, is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
As the Golden Bears look ahead, they will undoubtedly carry the lessons learned from this season into the future. The experience gained from competing against top-tier teams like Harding will serve as a foundation for continued success. The team and its fans can take pride in a season that, while not culminating in a national championship, has left an indelible mark on the program's history.
