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COLUMBUS, GA -- The word “grind” couldn’t have described the 2012 Albany State football season any better. After three early losses, the Golden Rams fought and clawed for 5 straight wins. In the end, it just wasn’t meant to be.

"I did not see this coming. I didn’t…this is like a blind side to me. We don’t have a lot of words for what just happened," ASU Head Coach Mike White said.

Albany State lost their shot at a SIAC Title rushed by rival Fort Valley State. Staying in the grinding theme though, the Golden Rams never gave up closing Saturday’s deficit to 38-20, but the roller coaster season has ended.

"A lot of ups and downs but we never gave up…even in this game…we didn’t give up we tried to fight back to get the win and that’s how I’ll remember this season," Running back Nathan Hoyte said.

A senior, Hoyte, will be remembered for stabilizing an often shaky offense. While senior defensive lineman Justin Blash did the same for a trademark "Dirty Blue" Defense. The 2012 senior class faced a trying season, but they did it together.

"We could have done a lot of things differently, but the biggest thing is we stayed together," Quarterback David Kooi said.

Another footnote left for another day was head coach Mike White’s pursuit of a 100^th win at Albany State. White didn’t have much to say on the matter, as usual for the longtime coach, it was all about the product on the field.

"With a win Saturday, we would call this a pretty successful season to get back to the conference championship game. Right now…finishing the way we did…this season does not leave a good taste in my mouth," Coach White said.