Grand Valley State and West Florida, two powerhouses in Division II football, have officially declared an exciting showdown for the 2024 season. The eagerly anticipated matchup is set to take place at Lubbers Stadium on September 28th at 3:00 p.m., marking the inaugural encounter between these esteemed institutions.
Securing a Rare Non-Conference Clash
Finding compelling non-conference football games can be a challenge, making the announcement of the Grand Valley State versus West Florida clash a thrilling revelation. Deputy Director of Athletics, Doug Lipinski, expressed the institution’s excitement, stating, “West Florida has made a tremendous impact on Division II football nationally, and this will be a great intersectional contest.”
Teams’ Impressive 2023 Performances
Grand Valley State concluded the 2023 campaign with an impressive 11-2 record, securing the #3 spot in the final AFCA Coaches poll. On the other side, West Florida finished the season 23rd with an 8-4 record. Noteworthy performances include the Lakers’ narrow 31-28 loss to national runner-up Colorado Mines and West Florida’s competitive 49-14 defeat at the hands of Delta State in the NCAA DII Super Region 2 playoffs.
Coaches’ Enthusiasm for the Clash
GVSU head coach Scott Wooster conveyed his excitement about the upcoming matchup, stating, “We are excited to have a matchup with a nationally prominent program like West Florida in a non-conference game.” Wooster emphasized the importance of Division II programs diversifying their schedules to expand the reach and presence of Division II football.
Tradition of Facing Strong Opponents
Grand Valley State, with a rich history that includes four football National Championships, has a tradition of scheduling top-tier non-conference opponents. This includes notable matchups against Colorado Mines, Colorado State-Pueblo, West Texas A&M, and Delta State, showcasing their commitment to challenging competition.
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Storied Histories: Grand Valley State and West Florida
Grand Valley State holds an impressive record in NCAA DII playoff history, ranking second all-time in appearances (22), wins (39), and winning percentage (.696). In contrast, West Florida has made significant playoff appearances since 2016, clinching the National Championship in 2019 and reaching the title game in 2017 and the semifinals in 2022.
Kickstarting the 2024 Season
GVSU is set to commence the 2024 season with a home game against Central State on Thursday, September 5th, at 7:00 p.m. The clash with West Florida is poised to be a highlight in the Lakers’ six-game lineup at Lubbers Stadium, promising an exciting season for both teams and fans alike.
