Grand Rapids, MI:

On Thursday at 7 p.m., Central State faces off against one of the elite NCAA Division II programs in the country, the 4th-ranked Grand Valley State Lakers, at Lubbers Stadium in Grand Rapids, MI. The Marauders, who kicked off their 2024 season with a narrow 17-10 loss to FCS opponent Morehead State, will be challenged by a Lakers team that is making their season debut. 

Despite their recent setback, Central State's defense displayed impressive resilience, holding Morehead State to just 280 total yards. The Marauders must improve on the offensive side of the ball to give them a shot to compete against the Lakers.  This week's matchup presents another significant hurdle as the Marauders face a GVSU team accustomed to national prominence. The Lakers are entering the season ranked #4 in the country, a spot they've often occupied, having been ranked in the top 10 of national preseason polls 20 times since 2002, including 17 top-five rankings and 13 top-three placements.

Grand Valley State's offense, which returns 10 starters from a formidable 11-2 squad, will be a key challenge for Central State's defense. Last year, both teams shared a common opponent, Kentucky State. Central State emerged victorious with a 20-10 win, while the Lakers dominated with a decisive 65-7 victory.

The game will be broadcast on WXSP TV Grand Rapids (Channel 15) and available for streaming on FloSports.