UW-River Falls made a historic mark in the NCAA Division III football semifinals, securing an exhilarating 48-41 victory over Johns Hopkins on December 20, 2025. The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Falcons, powered by an outstanding performance from quarterback Kaleb Blaha, notched a 79-yard touchdown with less than a minute to play, sealing their first-ever trip to the Stagg Bowl for the national championship.
The Blue Jays of Johns Hopkins, who had previously reached the semifinals in 2018 and 2024, found themselves in a nail-biting showdown. The Falcons, trailing throughout much of the game, turned the tables in a dramatic fashion. Quarterback Kaleb Blaha, who threw for a school-record 520 yards, orchestrated the comeback, punctuated by the game-winning touchdown pass. This victory marks a significant milestone for the program, setting the stage for the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl on January 4 in Canton, Ohio .
River Falls' journey to the national championship game is not just a testament to their resilience but also to the shift in the balance of power within Division III football. The 48-41 win over Johns Hopkins was a display of both tactical and strategic excellence, showcasing why the Falcons are a force to be reckoned with. Kaleb Blaha's performance was a standout, but the team's collective effort and determination were crucial in securing this historic win.
The Falcons will face North Central College of Illinois in the Stagg Bowl, who defeated John Carroll University 41-21 in their semifinal match. North Central's impressive season, led by their own dynamic play, promises a thrilling matchup. The two teams, each with their unique strengths and strategies, will clash in what is expected to be an intense and strategically rich game.
For UW-River Falls, the road to the championship has been one of perseverance and determination. The team's ability to rise to the challenge in the final minutes of their semifinal against Johns Hopkins underscores their potential to achieve greatness. The victory has not only secured their place in the Stagg Bowl but has also galvanized their fan base, who are eagerly anticipating the national championship game.
The Falcons' historic run to the Stagg Bowl is a testament to their relentless effort and strategic brilliance. As they prepare to face North Central College, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls continues to make waves in the Division III football scene, proving that they are a team on the rise. This monumental win over Johns Hopkins is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for the Falcons.
