The No. 23/25 Alma College football team returns to postseason action for the third time in four years this Saturday, traveling to Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium to take on No. 10/13 UW-Platteville in the second round of the NCAA Division III Football Tournament. The Scots enter the contest at 8–2 after completing an undefeated 7–0 MIAA slate and securing their third outright conference championship in four seasons. UW-Platteville, also 8–2, arrives from the WIAC — one of the most formidable leagues in Division III — with an impressive 5–2 conference mark.
Alma is guided by head coach Jason Couch ’97, now in his eighth season at the helm. The Scots field a veteran lineup defined by an experienced, upperclassmen-laden offensive line and the dynamic trio of Carter St. John, Eddie Williams, and Zach Poff. On the defensive side, Alma leans on a commanding front and the steady presence of linebacker Jett King, the team’s leading tackler.
UW–Platteville counters with a physical brand of football grounded in a disciplined, hard-nosed defense. The Pioneers allow just 18.5 points per game, hold opponents to 3.3 yards per rush, and limit passing attacks to 6.8 yards per attempt. Offensively, they are led by quarterback Nathan Uselding and running back Zackary Bothun.
At stake is a berth in the third round of the NCAA Division III Tournament, where the winner will meet the victor of the Bethel University (MN) vs. Coe College matchup.
Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. CST at Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium. The game will stream live on ESPN+ (subscription required). Tickets may be purchased in advance here. Fans not making the trip can join the official watch party at Blockhouse, where Alma College students can enjoy free wings with a valid student ID.