Written by Nic Fraraccio // Photo provided by AJ Williams
Along with the Bisons offense shattering the college football rushing record with 6,160 yards, the Harding defense stepped up in crucial moments during the title-winning season.
The players on the defensive side of the ball knew they had a special group as they worked towards the 2023 season. Junior defensive lineman Dre Hall said players would stay after practice to watch film and “sharpen their tools” in preparation for the historic season.
“We knew everything we had to face, and we knew our weaknesses,” Hall said. “We knew that’s what we needed to do heading into the new season.”
The hard work and preparation boosted the Bisons to their first national championship in program history. After consistent performances by the defense, the Bisons received multiple top-three rankings in defensive stat categories by the end of their undefeated season.
Most notably, Harding tied with the University of Charleston for the most defensive touchdowns in Division II football and finished the season ranked fifth in total defense.
The Bisons held each playoff opponent to their lowest single-game point total during the national championship run. Junior defensive lineman Wesley Coleman said the coaches would constantly remind the team that “when it gets harder for the Bisons, the Bisons get tougher.”
“Coming in every single day and every single week knowing that we’re going to have to face crazy opponents — we’re going to have to put up our best performance,” Coleman said.
Throughout the regular season and Division II playoffs, the Harding coaches continued to boost the Bisons’ confidence and support. Hall said the Harding coaching staff shows constant care for the players on and off the football field.
“At a lot of places, you would be just another number or just another face,” Hall said. “These coaches actually love us, and we love them. I do not think you will get that anywhere else.”
The Harding defense entertained fans and members of the media throughout the entire season. Billy Morgan, the voice of the Bisons for the Harding Sports Network, said the Bisons did not have a weakness during their historic run.
“It’s without a doubt the most fun defense that I’ve ever had a chance to watch,” Morgan said. “I love to watch the flexbone on offense, and it was dominant all year, but when you see that defense going out there you know you have a chance to win.”
Players and staff members have continued to show appreciation to fans and students after returning for the spring semester. Coleman said it has been a blessing to receive support and love from the Harding community.
“I want to say thank you for your never- ending support during the season,” Coleman said. “It is just amazing to know that we have such a great crowd of people behind us.”
