The 2012 season would be the first of it’s kind, as for the first time in NCFA history the National Title would be crowned on the field instead of by the final NCFA Rankings.  #1 and #2 in the Rawlings Week 10 Power Rankings would square up in a bowl game to crown the National Champion.

Salem, VA— The evening of Saturday, November 17th pitted two NCFA powerhouses in what was sure to be a battle for the ages. The goal: hoisting the 2012 NCFA National Championship trophy at the end of the game. An undefeated, Great Lakes Conference Champion, and #1-ranked University of Miami Redhawks team took the field against the explosive #2 and Mid-Atlantic Conference Champion Coppin State University Eagles squad to play in the first ever NCFA National Championship Bowl Game, held at Salem Stadium. Coppin State’s explosive spread option offense proved deadly as the Eagles jumped out to an early three-score lead in the first quarter, before Miami even knew what had hit them. To make matters worse for the Redhawks, Coppin’s defense seemed to have an answer for every play Miami ran on offense. In a courageous effort to take some momentum away from the blazing Eagles, Miami’s front line was able to drop Coppin State’s ball carrier in the end zone for a safety. Even with this mistake by Coppin, the Eagles had few worries as they sported a 34-2 lead heading into the half. Miami continued to battle hard with a strong second half performance, but Coppin State’s hard-hitting defense and prolific offense, featuring sophomore QB Antoine Goodson, was too much to handle. The offense provided some more breathing room with another touchdown and the defense came up with some key stops to close out the game. In the end, Miami’s first half deficit proved to be too much to overcome and Coppin State won the game with a score of 41 to 17. Coppin’s Quarterback Antoine Goodson was named the game’s Most Valuable Player for his tremendous performance and on-field leadership to push his team to victory. It was an exceptional show put on by two of the premier club football teams in the nation.

Listen to the 2012 NCFA National Championship Bowl HERE.

View the 2012 NCFA National Championship Bowl Game Photos HERE.

Download the 2012 NCFA National Championship Bowl Game Program HERE.

Antoine Goodson would take home MVP honors after a dominating performance under center for the Eagles as he led Coppin State to the first NCFA National Championship Bowl Game win in history.