Game Preview: No. 3 George Mason Hosts No. 7 Columbus State in Key NCFA Matchup

The George Mason Patriots return home this Saturday, November 1, to face the Columbus State Cougars at 1 p.m. on RAC FIELD on the Fairfax campus. Admission and parking are free, with parking available in the PV lot located behind the RAC.

This matchup features two of the top programs in the National Club Football Association (NCFA) as No. 3 George Mason (4–1) takes on No. 7 Columbus State (2–3). Both teams are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive, and this game carries important playoff implications within the South Atlantic Conference, one of the strongest divisions in the league.

George Mason enters the weekend on a defensive tear. The Patriots have posted back-to-back shutouts and have outscored their opponents 91–0 over the last two games. Cornerback Nick McCray has been a key part of the team’s success, recording three interceptions in last week’s 41–0 victory over then-No. 5 Clarkson University, including one returned for a touchdown. The defensive secondary will also see the return of Jason Yi, who rejoins the lineup and strengthens an already talented unit.

Offensively, the Patriots are led by running back Frederick Stokes and wide receiver Theo Assan, a preseason first-team nominee. Stokes ran for 105 yards and a touchdown in the win against Clarkson, while Assan continues to be one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NCFA, stretching opposing defenses with his speed and route precision.

Columbus State comes in after narrowly falling to No. 2 Coppin State by a score of 20–19 in Columbus, Georgia. The Cougars have proven they can compete with the top teams in the conference, setting the stage for what should be one of the most competitive games of the season.

Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. on RAC FIELD on the Fairfax campus of George Mason University. Admission and parking are free, with parking available in the PV lot behind the RAC.