Justin Bland Named 2024 NJCAA DIII Football Offensive Player of the Year
(Story and image courtesy of NJCAA.org)
Charlotte, NC – With an elite year on the field, 2024 has set the precedent for strong career to flourish for one freshman quarterback. After leading his team to a national title, Justin Bland of the College of DuPage has been named the 2024 NJCAA DIII Football Offensive Player of the Year.
Bland made an exceptional impact on the Chaparrals this season. Not only did he spearhead the way to the 2024 NJCAA DIII National Championship, Bland also brought forth success to his team as they won 11 out of their 12 games this year.
Bland was named as a First-Team All-America selection in 2024. He led the nation across several different categories including completions with 173, yards with 2934, touchdowns with 36 and pass efficiency with 196.4.
"Every time I step onto the field, in practice or in games, I think about my purpose in playing. Playing football is something that I love to do," stated Bland. "I'm blessed to play for great coaches and great teammates. We had a season where it all came together on offense, defense and on special teams.
Bland had a solid showing in the 2024 National Championship. In the 31-14 DuPage victory over Louisburg College, Bland led the pack to a dominant finish. He garnered 180 passing yards and two rushing touchdowns which made an influential difference in the outcome of the game.
Bland has proven his strengths and abilities on the field that are imperative to a team's success. As a true asset to his team, Bland's 2024 season is just the beginning of a prolific and fruitful career.
Personal
- Position: Quarterback
- Number: #10
- Class: Freshman
- Hometown: Carol Stream, IL.
- High School: Glenbard North HS
- 2024 Statistics:
- Completions: 173 (1st)
- Attempts: 269 (1st)
- Completion %: 64.3% (1st)
- Yards: 2934 (1st)
- Yards per game: 293.4 (1st)
- Touchdowns: 36 (1st)
Additional Links:
DUPAGE DOMINANCE: Chaps win fourth consecutive NJCAA title
Matthew Rahn named 2024 NJCAA DIII Football Coach of the Year