We're headed for a Stagg Bowl featuring UW-Whitewater and Mount Union for the fourth year in a row.

Mount Union punched its 12th ticket to Salem with a 45-24 semifinal victory against Wheaton (photo gallery). Defending champion UW-Whitewater, which finished second to the Purple Raiders in 2005 and 2006, defeated Mary Hardin-Baylor in the semifinals for the second year in a row, winning 39-13 in Belton, Texas.

Nate Kmic became the NCAA's all-time leading rusher in his final home game, carrying 29 times for 310 yards and three touchdowns to spark the Purple Raiders. Kmic's career rushing total of 7,986 yards surpasses the mark Danny Woodhead of Division II Chadron State set last season at 7,962 yards.

Vince Petruziello added nine receptions for 133 yards as Mount Union outgained Wheaton 657-346, including a 432-90 edge in rushing yards. Clantz Liggett had six tackles and a pair of sacks for the Purple Raiders defense.

UW-Whitewater outscored UMHB 27-3 in the second half, and got 106 rushing yards from Antwan Anderson to earn the right to defend their title. Quarterback Jeff Donovan completed 16 passes to eight receivers, with three touchdowns, and the defense held the Crusaders to 236 total yards.

Playoff toolbox: Bracket | Pick 'em | See Salem in style! | Playoff photos All-Region | Wheaton feature | Mount Union feature | Gagliardi finalists

Donovan looked strong on a day not conducive to putting the ball in the air. With a wind of more than 30 mph blowing out of the south end zone all day, kickoffs were an adventure, including the opening kickoff of the second half. It traveled minus-6 yards and was recovered by Mary Hardin-Baylor, though since it hadn't landed 10 yards from the line of scrimmage, it was given to Whitewater. The Warhawks were in the end zone one play later en route to a 20-point third quarter which blew the game open.