The 2025 Panthers were simply dominant in HCAC play. During their 6-0 conference season, the Panthers opened with a 44–10 statement win at Rose-Hulman, followed by a commanding 45–21 victory at Mount St. Joseph. Back-to-back blowouts on their home field (58-0 over Anderson and 76-7 over Manchester) showcased a team hitting its stride in every phase of the game. A 48–0 shutout at Bluffton and a dominating 51-18 win in the annual Victory Bell game against rival Franklin College sealed one of the most impressive conference runs in program history. 

As the Panthers reflect on their impressive season, three attributes will stand out:

• Undefeated in HCAC Play: A perfect 6–0 mark highlighted by dominant margins and multiple shutouts.

• Explosive Offense: The Panthers routinely passed the 40–50 point mark, overwhelming opponents with balance and efficiency.

• Stifling Defense: Three shutouts and only two conference opponents scoring more than a touchdown.

With the championship title, the Panthers earn the HCAC’s automatic qualification bid to the 2025 NCAA Division III Football Championship. The field for the championship will be announced Sunday, Nov. 16 at 5 p.m on NCAA.com.  The locations and opponents for the opening rounds will be announced by the NCAA at that time.

For HCAC fans wishing to see the first round of the Division III NCAA Championship, games are available on your mobile device or desktop by visiting this page: https://www.ncaa.com/champs-pass and clicking the “Watch DII Championships!” or DII sport-specific buttons. Additionally, you can search “NCAA Championships Pass” on your Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, etc. to find the games as well.

For more information on HCAC football, visit the websites of any of the participating schools, or go to the HCAC's home on the internet at www.heartlandconf.org. Be sure to stay up to date on all of your Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference news by following @HCACDIII on Twitter and by liking the "HCAC DIII" Facebook page.