North Alabama ended its time in Division II on a high note by defeating Mississippi College 16-7 Nov. 10.

“There’s a lot of history right here in Braly Stadium,” said UNA head football coach Chris Willis. “This is for every single guy who came before us.”

The Lions played a defensive game by holding the Choctaws scoreless in the first half. The Choctaws scored late in the fourth quarter to put the game within reach at 13-7.

A field goal from Chandlr Carrerra with two minutes left sealed the game for the Lions with a nine-point difference.

“It’s great just to come off the field with a win,” Willis said. “I don’t care what the score is. A win is a win.”

This game ended UNA’s time in Division II, which included 17 conference titles and three national championships.

“Emotions were high,” Willis said. “I’m proud of these guys.”

UNA finished this season with a 5-5 record. The Lions will start next year in the Atlantic Sun Conference and compete in the Big South Conference for football.