Albany State football cracks national coaches poll – now ranked No. 23

Staff Reports

ALBANY, Ga. — The Albany State University Golden Rams have officially broken into the AFCA Division II Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl, coming in at No. 23 after their commanding 31-3 victory over previously ranked No. 21 Benedict College this past weekend. The win not only secured Albany State’s position atop the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) standings but also marked the program’s return to national recognition for the first time since October 10, 2022.

In a performance that turned heads across Division II football, the Golden Rams dominated both sides of the ball — amassing nearly 500 yards of total offense while holding the Tigers to a season-low 63 yards rushing. The offense was balanced and efficient, while the defense remained relentless, suffocating Benedict’s run game and forcing key stops that set the tone early. The 31-3 victory not only handed Benedict its first conference loss of the season but also reestablished Albany State as a national contender in 2025.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Quinn Gray Sr., the Golden Rams have built a strong case for national attention with their 7-1 overall record and 6-0 conference standing, demonstrating consistency, discipline, and
dominance throughout the season. Albany State’s resurgence in the AFCA Coaches Poll is complemented by its appearance at No. 22 in the D2 Football Media Poll, reflecting the growing respect from both coaches and media nationwide.

The Golden Rams now look to carry their momentum into the final stretch of the season as they prepare to host Savannah State University on Saturday, October 25, for Senior Day at the Albany State Coliseum. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM as ASU continues its pursuit of a conference title and a return to postseason play.