ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The Golden Rams defeated the Benedict Tigers 14–12 in a defensive showdown, securing their spot in the third round of the 2025 NCAA Division II Championships. The victory also marks the third time this season ASU has taken down Benedict, and it may be the most meaningful one yet.

Jamil opened the scoring with a birthday touchdown that gave the Rams an early spark. Benedict kept the game close, converting a field goal with 11 seconds left in the first quarter to make it 7-3.

The second half brought high-pressure swings. ASU turned the ball over on a fourth-and-four attempt, leading to a Benedict score that tightened the game to 7–6. Both teams traded fumbles, including one recovered by Benedict early in the half. Albany State’s defense delivered again when Isaiah came up with a critical sack and later helped stall another Benedict drive.

A SportsNet contact call placed ASU at the Benedict 28-yard line, and just a few plays later, the Rams capitalized. On first-and-goal, Isaiah powered in his 11th rushing touchdown of the season to push the lead to 14–6.

Benedict answered with a touchdown of their own but failed the two-point conversion, keeping Albany State ahead 14–12 with 3:49 remaining. From there, the Rams leaned on their defense once again, shutting down the Tigers’ final attempts.

With the win, Albany State makes program history, becoming the first team to ever reach 12 victories in a season.

The Golden Rams now advance to the third round, carrying momentum, confidence, and a season already marked by milestones.

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