What Is 2013 Valdosta State Blazers football

Overview

The 2013 Valdosta State Blazers football team competed in NCAA Division II as members of the Gulf South Conference (GSC). Under the leadership of head coach Chris Hoppough, the team achieved a 10-3 overall record and captured the GSC title with a 6-1 conference record. This marked one of the most successful seasons in program history, highlighted by a deep playoff run.

Valdosta State earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Division II playoffs after securing the conference championship. They defeated Carson-Newman, 45-38, in the quarterfinals before falling to Lenoir-Rhyne in the semifinals. The season showcased strong offensive production and a resilient defense, earning national recognition.

• Record: The team finished with a 10-3 overall record, including a 6-1 mark in Gulf South Conference play, securing the conference title.
• Playoff run: Valdosta State advanced to the NCAA Division II semifinals for the first time since 2007, defeating Carson-Newman in the quarterfinals.
• Head coach: Chris Hoppough served as head coach in his first full season, guiding the team to its best record since 2004.
• Quarterback performance: Chrisorian Mitchell threw for 2,847 yards and 24 touchdowns, leading one of the most efficient offenses in Division II.
• Defensive strength: The Blazers' defense ranked among the top 10 nationally in sacks (34) and forced fumbles (15) during the 2013 season.

Season Highlights

The 2013 campaign featured several memorable performances and pivotal moments that defined the team’s success. From dramatic wins to individual accolades, the season was a turning point for the program under new leadership.

• September 21 win vs. West Georgia: The Blazers won 34-27 in overtime, marking their first victory over a top-10 team that season and boosting playoff hopes.
• Homecoming victory: A 48-21 win over Delta State on November 2 showcased dominant rushing offense, with over 300 yards on the ground.
• Quarterfinal triumph: Valdosta State defeated Carson-Newman 45-38 in a high-scoring playoff game, advancing to the semifinals for the first time in six years.
• Individual honors: Defensive end Darius Leonard earned First Team All-GSC honors after recording 10.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss.
• Final ranking: The team finished ranked No. 5 nationally in the final AFCA Division II Coaches Poll.
• Stadium: All home games were played at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, which averaged over 8,000 fans per game during the regular season.

Comparison at a Glance

Here's how the 2013 Valdosta State Blazers compare to previous standout seasons in program history:

The 2013 season stands out for reviving the program’s national prominence after a lull in the late 2000s. While not matching the championship success of 1996 or 2007, the team’s semifinal appearance and top-five finish signaled a resurgence under new leadership. The offense’s consistency and defensive playmaking were key drivers of this success.

Why It Matters

The 2013 season was a pivotal moment in Valdosta State football history, reestablishing the program as a national contender in Division II. It laid the foundation for future success and energized the fanbase around a young coaching staff and emerging talent.

• Program momentum: The success of 2013 helped boost recruiting, leading to stronger classes in subsequent years.
• Coaching development: Chris Hoppough solidified his role as head coach, earning GSC Coach of the Year consideration.
• Player development: Several players, including Darius Leonard, went on to sign professional contracts or play in higher leagues.
• Community impact: Home games saw increased attendance and local media coverage, boosting school spirit.
• National exposure: The playoff run brought national attention to Valdosta State, enhancing its athletic profile.
• Legacy building: The season is remembered as a turning point that restored pride in the Blazers' football tradition.

Ultimately, the 2013 Valdosta State Blazers season was more than just wins and losses—it symbolized a revival and set a new standard for excellence in the years that followed.