VALDOSTA, Ga. — The Albany State Golden Rams delivered one of the most thrilling postseason performances in program history on Saturday afternoon, defeating the Valdosta State Blazers 35-30 in the first round of the NCAA Super Region II Playoffs. In a matchup filled with momentum swings, explosive plays, and defining moments, the Golden Rams stood tall to earn their first playoff victory since 2010.

The win also marks Albany State's first triumph over Valdosta State since the 2017 season opener—ending an eight-year drought against the perennial powerhouse. With the victory, the Golden Rams (now advancing in the national playoffs for the first time in 14 years) continue their remarkable postseason run under Head Coach Quinn Gray Sr.

From the opening whistle, it was clear that Albany State came prepared to play fast, physical, and fearless football. The Golden Rams established early control with a balanced offensive attack and timely defensive stands, but the Blazers—known for their championship pedigree—fought back to keep the contest close throughout.

Valdosta State mounted multiple comeback attempts, but Albany State consistently found answers. Whether it was key defensive stops, clutch quarterback play, or explosive runs, the Golden Rams executed with the poise of a battle-tested postseason team.

Saturday's win marks the Golden Rams' first postseason advancement since the 2010 run under legendary head coach Mike White. That year, Albany State earned a first-round bye and defeated Wingate in the second round before bowing out in the national quarterfinals. Today's victory signals a renewed era of playoff competitiveness and strengthens Albany State's position among Division II's rising contenders.

Next up, Albany State prepares for one of the most anticipated rematches in Super Region II: a second-round showdown with conference rival Benedict College. This matchup will mark the third meeting between the Golden Rams and Tigers this season, with Albany State winning the first contest decisively before battling Benedict again in the SIAC Championship.
Both teams know each other well. Both play physical, disciplined football. And both now share the national stage with everything on the line.

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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently fields teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football with all teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.