The Slippery Rock University football team has made a strong showing in the NCAA Division II preseason rankings, receiving votes that place them just outside the top 25. With 56 points, they are the fifth team in the "others receiving votes" category, maintaining a streak of being in this section since October 2018. The Rock are set to face tough competition right away, starting the season against No. 12 Minnesota Duluth next Thursday, marking their first meeting. The AFCA poll, regarded as the official national ranking, features Ferris State at the top with all 31 first-place votes. Other notable teams include Kutztown at No. 3 and Indiana (Pa.) at No. 25, giving Pennsylvania schools significant representation.

By the Numbers
  • Slippery Rock received 56 points in the AFCA preseason poll, landing them fifth in the "others receiving votes" section.
  • Ferris State earned all 31 first-place votes, finishing the preseason poll with 775 points.
State of Play
  • Slippery Rock has been receiving votes in the AFCA poll for over 2,870 days.
  • The Rock will face three ranked opponents in their first four games of the season.
What's Next

Slippery Rock will kick off their season against No. 12 Minnesota Duluth on August 27, followed by a road game at East Stroudsburg. The intense schedule continues with another away game against California (Pa.) two weeks later. Early matchups will be pivotal in shaping their season outlook.

Bottom Line

With a challenging schedule ahead and a solid ranking trajectory, Slippery Rock is positioned to establish itself in the national conversation. Their performance against ranked opponents in the early part of the season will be critical for their aspirations.