UW-La Crosse Dropped in National Football Rankings
The Eagles fell to 20th in the D3Football Top 25 after a close loss to UW-Whitewater.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Football
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UW-La Crosse slipped two spots to No. 20 in the D3Football Top 25 poll following a 24-18 defeat to UW-Whitewater. The loss at Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex represents the third one-possession defeat for the team this season.
Why it matters
The result significantly impacts the team's standing within the conference, as UW-La Crosse now holds a 1-1 conference record compared to the undefeated 5-0 mark maintained by UW-Whitewater. The game highlighted critical red-zone struggles that have hampered the team's ability to close out tight matches.
UW-La Crosse holds a 2-3 overall record, while Kyle Haas set a school record with 49 career passing touchdowns. The team failed to score on a crucial first-and-goal possession from the 5-yard line with 4:08 remaining in the game.
The players
UW-La Crosse
This is a public university located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, that fields various athletic teams known as the Eagles.
UW-Whitewater
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a public university known for its highly competitive football program.
Kyle Haas
He is a quarterback for the UW-La Crosse football team who recently became the school's all-time leader in career passing touchdowns.
The details
The Eagles struggled to convert key opportunities, including a pivotal drive that saw the team held to zero yards on four plays from the 5-yard line. Scoring efforts were limited to an intentional grounding safety and a 44-yard interception return.
Timeline
October 10, 2026: UW-La Crosse lost to UW-Whitewater.
October 17, 2026: UW-La Crosse plays UW-Stevens Point.
Season Trajectory
This loss marks a pivotal shift for the Eagles, who must now recover from a 2-3 start to remain competitive in the conference race. The team's inability to win close games jeopardizes their path to climbing back toward the top of the D3Football Top 25 rankings.
The loss leaves UW-La Crosse with a 1-1 conference record, putting increased pressure on the team to secure wins in upcoming matchups. Kyle Haas's continued high-volume production remains a primary focus for fans monitoring team statistical milestones.
The takeaway
Close-game execution remains the defining challenge for the Eagles this season after suffering their third one-possession defeat. Improving offensive efficiency inside the red zone will be essential for the team to regain momentum in the second half of the schedule.
What happens next
UW-La Crosse will attempt to bounce back in their next game against UW-Stevens Point on October 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on local collegiate athletics, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WIZM 92.3FM 106.7FM 1410AM.
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