The NCAA Division III football championship heats up as the Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneers face off against the Wartburg College Knights in the second round on December 1, 2024. Both teams bring impressive 9-1 records into this high-stakes matchup at Walston-Hoover Stadium in Waverly, Iowa, promising an exciting contest for fans.

Game Details:

• Teams: Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneers (9-1) vs. Wartburg College Knights (9-1)
• Date: December 1, 2024
• Time: 12:00 AM ET
• Location: Walston-Hoover Stadium, Waverly, IA
• Coverage: ESPN+
• Live stream: Watch here

Team Overviews

Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneers

The Pioneers are coming off a strong 46-38 victory against Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the first round. With a potent offense and disciplined defense, Wisconsin-Platteville has proven its mettle this season. Their last five games showcase dominance, highlighted by a massive 56-14 win over Wisconsin-Eau Claire and a narrow 17-10 victory against Wisconsin-Whitewater.

• Last Five Results:
  • 11/17/24: W46-38 @ Wisconsin-Stevens Point
  • 11/10/24: W56-14 vs. Wisconsin-Eau Claire
  • 11/3/24: W42-14 @ Wisconsin-Platteville
  • 10/27/24: W17-10 vs. Wisconsin-Whitewater
  • 10/20/24: L24-17 @ Wisconsin-Oshkosh

The lone blemish on their record is a 24-17 loss to Wisconsin-Oshkosh, but the Pioneers have since rebounded with renewed vigor.

Wartburg College Knights

The Knights have been equally formidable, steamrolling Loras College 69-14 in their first-round game. Their balanced attack has consistently overwhelmed opponents, with standout performances like a 49-10 rout of Luther College and a hard-fought 14-7 win at Coe College.

• Last Five Results:
  • 11/17/24: W69-14 vs. Loras College
  • 11/10/24: W24-14 @ University of Dubuque
  • 11/3/24: W49-10 vs. Luther College
  • 10/27/24: W14-7 @ Coe College
  • 10/20/24: W46-21 vs. Simpson College

Wartburg’s consistency has been a key factor in their success, with their only loss coming early in the season.

Keys to Victory

Wisconsin-Platteville:

• Offensive Execution: The Pioneers need to maintain their high-scoring offense led by their quarterback and skilled wide receivers.
• Defensive Adaptability: Stopping Wartburg’s well-rounded offense will require adjustments and turnovers.

Wartburg College:

• Dominant Defense: Wartburg’s ability to stifle opponents, as seen in their close games, will be critical in containing Wisconsin-Platteville’s dynamic offense.
• Momentum Play: Big plays, especially on special teams and turnovers, could tilt the game in their favor.

What to Watch For

Both teams enter this matchup with championship aspirations, and the clash of offensive firepower against defensive grit makes for an intriguing battle. With frigid weather on tap, the ground game and ball security will likely play significant roles in determining the outcome.

Tune in to ESPN+ at 12:00 AM ET on December 1, 2024, for this thrilling second-round showdown in the 2024 NCAA Division III Football Championship.