NCAA D-II semifinal preview

Ross doesn’t seem to care if Valdosta State or the nation are underestimating his team. “I wouldn’t be surprised,” said Ross. “It doesn’t really matter to us. We worry about ourselves. We only focus on us.” As for the tight playoff games leading up to this point, Ross said, “The closer we get, the stronger we are. Staying in the moment, and not just overlooking it or worrying about when the season’s going to be over.”

VSU is the nation’s No. 1-ranked team, and is looking for its fourth national championship since 2004. The Blazers won it all in 2004, 2007 and 2012, and were the national runner-up 2002. This is VSU’s fifth national semifinal since 2000. … Coach Kerwin Bellis’ team is averaging 54 points (No. 1 in the nation) and 542 yards, but in the postseason it’s been even better. In two playoff games, VSU is averaging 63.5 points and 570 yards. Its playoff wins have been by scores of 66-16 and 6121. “They look like an FCS team when you put on the tape,” said NDC coach Mike Jacobs. “There’s a reason they’re the No. 1 seed in the entire tournament. … But it’s still football, and we have to work to do what we do and it’s establishing the run and establishing the line of scrimmage. Get 11 hats to the football and be disciplined in what we’re doing.” … Like NDC’s McLaughlin, VSU has a Harlon Hill finalist in QB Rogan Wells, who’s thrown for 2,592 yards with 32 TDs and four interceptions. Wells also has 656 rushing yards and 11 TDs. … Four running backs have at least 442 yards and seven TDs, including leading rusher Jamar Thompkins (1,112 yards, eight TDs). VSU’s leading receivers are Lio’undre Gallimore (29 catches, 750 yards, seven TDs) and Brian Saunds (32-605-10). … The Blazers’ six defensive touchdowns lead the nation in D-II.