The Colorado Mines Orediggers were close.
Really close.
But the Orediggers fourth quarter rally fell just short in a 34-31 loss to Valdosta St. in the Division II semifinals on Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium in Valdosta, Georgia.
The Orediggers trailed 34-17 entering the fourth quarter before putting together two touchdown drives.
John Matocha found Max McLeod on a 17-yard scoring pass to bring Mines within 34-24 with 3:37 left in the game. Valdosta St. recovered the onside kick but punted after going three-plays-and-out.
Matocha then capped an eight-play, 72 yard drive with a six-yard touchdown pass to Josh Johnston with 34 seconds remaining. But again, Valdosta St. recovered the onside kick and ran out the clock.
Colorado Mines closes out the season with a 12-2 record.
Valdosta St. will play Ferris St. (MI) for the Division II national championship on Saturday, December 18 at 7 p.m. MST in McKinney, Texas.
Ferris St. defeated Shepherd (WV), 55-7, in the other semifinal.