The 2024 NCAA Division III Football Championship heats up as the undefeated Lake Forest Foresters (10-0) take on the seasoned Bethel (MN) Royals (9-2) in the second round. This highly anticipated matchup kicks off at 12:00 AM (ET) on December 1, 2024, at Royal Stadium in Arden Hills, Minnesota, with live coverage on ESPN+.
Lake Forest vs Bethel Football Game Info:
What: NCAA DIII Football Championship
Who: Lake Forest vs Bethel
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Team Overviews
Lake Forest Foresters
Lake Forest has been nothing short of dominant this season, riding a perfect 10-0 record into the postseason. Their balanced offense and stifling defense have overwhelmed opponents, as reflected in their recent games:
- W 28-9 vs. Chicago (11/17/24)
- W 35-28 vs. Monmouth (11/10/24)
- W 62-17 @ Beloit (11/3/24)
- W 66-0 vs. Ripon (10/27/24)
- W 42-22 @ Grinnell (10/20/24)
The Foresters bring momentum and confidence, highlighted by their ability to win both close games and blowouts. Their offensive consistency and strong defensive performances make them a formidable opponent.
Bethel (MN) Royals
The Royals enter the second round after a thrilling 31-26 victory over Coe College in the opening round. Despite a 9-2 record, Bethel has shown flashes of brilliance, including dominant wins like their 70-0 shutout over Hamline. Their last five games include:
- W 31-26 @ Coe (11/24/24)
- L 41-33 @ St. John’s (MN) (11/17/24)
- W 49-16 @ Concordia (11/10/24)
- W 56-7 vs. Carleton (11/3/24)
- W 70-0 @ Hamline (10/27/24)
Bethel will look to leverage their home-field advantage at Royal Stadium, a venue known for its electrifying atmosphere.
Key Matchup
- Lake Forest Defense vs. Bethel Offense: Lake Forest has allowed fewer than 10 points in two of their last five games, but they’ll face a Bethel offense that has scored 49+ points in three recent contests. Whichever team controls this battle will likely emerge victorious.
Game Day Details
- Date/Time: December 1, 2024, at 12:00 AM ET
- Location: Royal Stadium, Arden Hills, MN
- Broadcast: ESPN+
- Weather: A chilly 13°F in Arden Hills may play a factor, potentially favoring the more cold-weather-adjusted Royals.
What to Watch For
- Can Lake Forest maintain their undefeated streak in a hostile environment?
- Will Bethel capitalize on their explosive offense to counter Lake Forest’s discipline?
- How will the weather impact both teams, especially in the passing game?
Football fans can expect a thrilling clash between these two powerhouse programs as they vie for a spot in the next round of the NCAA DIII Football Championship. Don’t miss the action!
