This Sunday night, January 4, five local college football standouts will take the national spotlight as they compete for a national championship in NCAA Division III football.
The 52nd Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl, the Division III National Championship game, kicks off at 7:00 p.m. from Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, and features a compelling showdown between UW–River Falls and North Central College.
It’s a clash of powerhouses. North Central (14–0) enters as the reigning national champion and one of the most dominant programs in Division III football, while UW–River Falls (13–1) arrives in Canton for the first championship appearance in program history, fueled by a high-powered offense and a relentless defense.
And this year, the championship story has a strong local connection.
UW–River Falls: Four Local Players Chasing a Title
Gage Timm, #12 — Senior Linebacker (Shawano High School)
Few defenders in Division III football have been as impactful as Gage Timm. The senior linebacker from Shawano has anchored one of the nation’s most dominant defenses, leading the Falcons in tackles, tackles for loss, sacks, and turnovers. His 2025 season earned national acclaim, including AP First Team All-America, D3football.com First Team All-America, Walter Camp Foundation All-America, and WIAC Defensive Player of the Year honors. With River Falls leading the nation in turnovers, Timm’s combination of instinct, physicality, and leadership has made him one of the elite defenders in college football.
Ben Wesolowski, #2 — Junior Wide Receiver (Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School)
A true multi-dimensional playmaker, Ben Wesolowski brings versatility and explosiveness to the Falcons’ offense. The 6-foot-3 junior from Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School has lined up as both a quarterback and wide receiver during his career, earning All-WIAC Honorable Mention recognition in 2025. Last season, Wesolowski totaled nearly 700 yards of offense, catching 26 passes for 333 yards while contributing scores through the air, on the ground, and as a receiver. His adaptability and football IQ make him a valuable weapon in UW–River Falls’ offensive attack.
Mitchell Kallies, #51 — Junior Defensive Lineman (Oconto Falls High School)
At 6-foot-2 and 297 pounds, Mitchell Kallies provides strength and toughness in the trenches for the Falcons’ defensive front. The junior defensive lineman from Oconto Falls has been a steady presence since his freshman season, helping control the line of scrimmage against the run. Kallies has also earned WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll recognition, balancing physical play on the field with academic success.
Jack Dietz, #57 — Freshman Offensive Lineman (Shawano High School)
Beginning his collegiate career on the sport’s biggest stage, Jack Dietz represents the future of UW–River Falls football. The freshman offensive lineman from Shawano stands 6-foot and weighs 254 pounds, bringing a physical presence and strong fundamentals to the offensive line. Dietz’s work ethic and early development have already earned him meaningful experience as the Falcons prepare for the national championship.
North Central College: One Local Veteran Chasing Another Ring
Isaac Banker, #87 — Senior Tight End (Bonduel High School)
Isaac Banker brings championship experience and leadership to North Central’s offense. The senior tight end from Cecil and Bonduel High School has appeared in every game over the past two seasons for the Cardinals. Standing 6-foot-4 and 241 pounds, Banker has earned Academic All-CCIW honors in both 2023 and 2024 while contributing as a reliable target in the passing game. In 2024, he totaled two receptions for 72 yards, consistently making the most of his opportunities. As North Central looks to defend its national title, Banker’s experience and steady presence remain invaluable.
The Stagg Bowl will air nationwide on ESPN this Sunday night at 7:00 p.m., as local athletes compete on college football’s grandest Division III stage, with a national championship on the line.
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