Just because you’re not playing D-I football doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your college experience and advance your playing career. By keeping your options open, you’ll learn that D-III schools offer rich traditions, great opportunities to get considerable playing time and a solid education. We spoke with Larry Kehres, head coach of D-III football powerhouse Mount Union, about playing Division III ball.

STACK: How successful can a D-III football player be?
Larry Kehres: In [a recent NFL game], one of my former players was playing for the Colts. He played D-III football. He wasn’t quite able to get a football scholarship out of high school, but he persisted, he improved, and he’s got an opportunity now.

STACK: How can a player get noticed?
LK: Communicate with college coaches if you’re not sure you’re going to be a D-I or D-II athlete. If you really want to play football, communicate with D-III coaches.

STACK: How?
LK: Most have e-mail at their disposal, so you can send us messages, and we’ll respond.

STACK: Is D-III football comparable to big-time college football?
LK: The notions that [D-III] athletes really aren’t very good—anybody could [play], it doesn’t take very much time, you don’t have to be committed—those are all misconceptions. The qualities that make the Ohio State Buckeyes a good football team are the same qualities that make a D-III football squad excellent.