The 2024 NCAA Division III Football Championship continues with an electrifying second-round matchup between the Whitworth Pirates (10-1) and the North Central Cardinals (10-0). The game kicks off at 12:00 AM (ET) on December 1, 2024, at Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium in Naperville, Illinois. Fans can tune in to ESPN+ for live coverage of this highly anticipated contest.
Whitworth vs North Central College Football Game Info:
What: NCAA DIII Football Championship
Who: Whitworth vs North Central College
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview
Whitworth Pirates
The Pirates enter the game with a strong 10-1 record, looking to build on their first-round victory against Pomona-Pitzer (21-13). Under head coach [insert coach’s name], Whitworth boasts a versatile offense and a resilient defense, evidenced by recent dominant wins over Lewis & Clark (48-9) and George Fox (31-0). However, their lone loss of the season, a 34-7 defeat to Linfield, exposed areas of vulnerability they’ll need to address against a powerhouse like North Central.
North Central Cardinals
The undefeated Cardinals, led by head coach [insert coach’s name], are a juggernaut in Division III football. North Central has showcased offensive firepower and defensive tenacity all season, with marquee wins including a 70-7 rout of Elmhurst and a 56-3 demolition of Carthage. Their balanced attack has been instrumental in maintaining a perfect record, and their recent 42-20 win over Illinois Wesleyan demonstrates they’re peaking at the right time.
Key Matchup
The game features two potent offenses but contrasting playstyles. Whitworth relies on strategic ground gains and disciplined passing, while North Central overwhelms opponents with relentless scoring drives. The Pirates’ ability to contain North Central’s high-scoring offense will be critical.
Weather Conditions
With gametime temperatures projected to hover around 21°F, the cold Illinois weather may impact both teams’ passing games, putting a greater emphasis on the run and defense.
Recent Form
Whitworth’s Last Five Games:
- 11/24/24: vs. Pomona-Pitzer – W 21-13
- 11/17/24: vs. Linfield – L 34-7
- 11/10/24: @ George Fox – W 31-0
- 11/3/24: vs. Lewis & Clark – W 48-9
- 10/27/24: @ Pacific – W 39-32
North Central’s Last Five Games:
- 11/17/24: @ Illinois Wesleyan – W 42-20
- 11/10/24: vs. Elmhurst – W 70-7
- 11/2/24: vs. Carthage – W 56-3
- 10/27/24: @ Augustana – W 49-10
- 10/20/24: vs. North Park – W 69-0
Prediction
While Whitworth’s resilience has carried them far this season, North Central’s dominance and home-field advantage make them the favorites in this matchup. Expect the Cardinals to leverage their depth and precision to secure a spot in the next round.
Be sure to catch all the action live on ESPN+ as these two teams clash in pursuit of Division III football glory!
