PEMBROKE - Following a 31-0 victory against Valdosta State on Saturday, the UNC Pembroke football team has picked up recognition in national polls from both D2Football.com and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), the organizations announced Monday afternoon. 
 
The Black & Gold are ranked 24^th in the D2Football.com poll and are 25^th in the AFCA poll. It is the first time since the 2017 preseason poll that the Braves have been ranked in the AFCA Top 25. 
 
UNCP has won its last four games highlighted by victories over No. 16 Delta State and blanking No. 20 Valdosta State on Saturday. It was the first time that VSU has been held scoreless since 1991. 
 
The Braves rank 10^th-nationally in fourth down conversions and are 13^th in team passing efficiency. The Black & Gold lead Conference Carolinas in multiple categories including scoring offense, total offensive yards, and defensive efficiency.