NCAA Division II football rankings see Slippery Rock and William Jewell rise

The American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) released its updated NCAA Division II national rankings, highlighting significant movement for several programs.

Slippery Rock University has risen to No. 8 in the national poll after five weeks of play. The team began the season outside the top 25 and has climbed steadily following consecutive road victories. In the D2football.com media poll, the program moved to No. 9.

William Jewell College has received votes in the national poll for the first time since 2006. Currently holding a 3-0 record, the Cardinals' defense ranks highly in several national categories, including second in first down defense and tenth in interceptions.

At the top of the AFCA rankings, Ferris State remains No. 1 with all 31 first-place votes, followed by Harding at No. 2 and Kutztown at No. 3. Colorado State Pueblo moved up to No. 4, while Minnesota State dropped to No. 5.