Ferris State Head Coach Tony Annese: 'I'd Rather Face Notre Dame Than Harding'
Ferris State and Harding are set to battle it out in the Division II playoffs for the second consecutive season, with the national championship game taking place in McKinney, Texas. Both teams are currently undefeated, having won 15 games each. However, the stakes are higher this year, as the winner will claim the coveted title.
Despite his team's impressive record, Ferris State Head Coach Tony Annese expressed a surprising preference during a recent press conference. He humorously stated, 'I'd rather play Notre Dame than Harding.' This statement sparked curiosity and raised questions about the challenges ahead.
Annese acknowledged the difficulty of facing Harding, a formidable opponent. He explained that Harding's offensive prowess and top-ranked defense make them a significant challenge. The coach even admitted to cheering against Harding during the playoff run, hoping to avoid them in the national championship.
Harding's offensive capabilities are evident in their average of 39.5 yards per game during the playoffs, slightly lower than their regular season performance. Ferris State's defense, however, has proven its mettle, as they held Harding to just seven points in their previous playoff encounter.
The upcoming game between Ferris State and Harding promises to be an intense and highly anticipated match. With the championship title on the line, the outcome will determine which team will secure their fourth title since 2021. Harding, the 2023 champions, is aiming for a repeat performance, making this a must-watch showdown in the world of Division II football.
