Harding Football Wins NCAA Division II National Championship

McKinney (Texas)- The underdogs prevailed. This one was for Searcy.

In a highly anticipated game, both teams came in with national championship aspirations. For the Orediggers this was redemption, for the Bison it was a shot at history. Literal fireworks got the game started as the national anthem echoed throughout McKinney ISD Stadium. Local schools helped with holding the United States of America flag. Unified cheers were heard throughout.

Colorado School of Mines located in Golden, Colorado is a well-known program in Division II. From their fans to their QB from Texas. Mines as they’re called play in the RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) and came in undefeated. The self-proclaimed “nerds” and their fans kept it entertaining

The Orediggers were commanded by the NCAA’s all-time career passing TD leader (161), John Matocha. The redshirt senior quarterback had one passing touchdown but was under pressure all afternoon. Nothing could get going for their offense as the Bison made plays left and right.

Harding University located in Searcy, Arkansas, and home to the Bison were welcomed by a sea of fans. Black and gold filled the stadium. Harding is a proud member of the GAC (Great American Conference) and came in with a record of their own. Harding held a Division II single-season record with 5,659 rushing yards.

Jhalen Spicer, the junior running back from Lancaster, Texas made his return “home” Before making his way to Searcy, Arkansas Spicer was making plays at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas. While with the Rangers, Spicer contributed on both sides of the ball. Playing cornerback and wide receiver, in 2018 he was named Second Team All-District as a kick returner. In 2019 he was named First Team All-District. Spicer found the end zone and was a key factor. Scoring on a 10-yard rush.

The Bisons used what worked and it was difficult for the Orediggers to stop them. The Bison offense erupted for 502 yards and surpassed 6,000 total yards on the ground. It was simply amazing to see. The Bison did have some tricks of their own, passing twice. Making the Orediggers defense get even more frustrated. Harding scored on each of its first six possessions, five touchdowns, and a field goal. Mines scored on its first possession and never again.

The Bison defense had 10 tackles for loss, two off the championship record. The Bison controlled the time of possession and forced the Orediggers to turn the ball over on downs numerous times. In front of over 6,000 screaming fans, the Bison defense held strong.

As the clock struck zero, the scoreboard showed the final score of 38 to 7. The Bison etched their name into the history books. Winning their first NCAA national championship in program history.