North Central and Bethel Clash in NCAA D3 Football Quarterfinals

The NCAA Division III football playoffs feature an exciting quarterfinal matchup on December 13, 2025, as the unbeaten North Central Cardinals take on the Bethel University Royals. Both teams have displayed remarkable performances throughout the season, making this game a highly anticipated event for college football fans.

The North Central Cardinals, aiming for their third national title in four years, have maintained an impressive record this season. They advanced to the quarterfinals after dominating Hanover and defeating Wisconsin-La Crosse in the previous rounds. Quarterback Garret Wilson played a crucial role in their success, contributing both on the ground and through the air with one rushing touchdown, one passing touchdown, and a total of 168 passing yards in their last game.

On the other side, Bethel University is also entering the quarterfinals with a perfect record. They scored an impressive 51 points against Coe and secured a narrow victory over Wisconsin-Platteville in their last matchup. Running back Zackary Bothun excelled in the latter game, rushing for over 120 yards, while quarterback Nathan Uselding threw for over 298 yards and added a touchdown to his performance.

Viewing Information and Game Details

Fans can catch the North Central vs. Bethel game live on ESPN+, providing a convenient streaming option for those unable to attend. To access the game, viewers can download the new ESPN app, sign in with their ESPN account, and subscribe to ESPN Select, which offers a variety of live sports programming.

The game is scheduled to kick off at 1 p.m. ET at Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium in Naperville, Illinois. This matchup promises to be an exciting battle between two top-tier teams, each seeking to advance further in the playoffs.

The complete NCAA Division III football playoffs schedule for December 13, 2025, includes the following matchups:

– John Carroll vs. Berry at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN+
– Susquehanna vs. Johns Hopkins at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN+
– Bethel vs. North Central at 1 p.m. ET on ESPN+
– Wheaton (IL) vs. UW-River Falls at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN+

As the teams prepare for this pivotal showdown, the excitement continues to build among fans and players alike. This quarterfinal game not only highlights the talent within NCAA Division III football but also sets the stage for the potential of an exhilarating championship run for the victor.