The Teams: No.5 Tarleton State Texans (0-0, 0-0 UAC) vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers (0-0, 0-0 SWAC)
Where: Stephenville, Texas
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (24,000)
Time: 8 p.m. CT
Streaming Platform: ESPN 2 (Ted Emrich, Fozzy Whittaker)
Radio: Tarleton Sports Network on 90.5 FM and KSTV Cowboy 93.1 FM (Byron Anderson, Kyle Masters, Keltin Wiens, Ty Walker)
Game Sponsor: The Grove
 
TEXAN FOOTBALL GAME DAY
The launch of the Chancellor's Cup will feature Tarleton State and Prairie View A&M at Memorial Stadium to welcome in the 2026 college football season.
 
The game will be broadcast on ESPN 2, with Ted Emrich and Fozzy Whittaker on the call. The game can be heard on Tarleton Sports Network at 90.5 FM and 93.1 FM in Stephenville and surrounding areas, with Byron Anderson, Kyle Masters, Keltin Wiens and Ty Walker leading the broadcast.
 
GAME DAY FESTIVITIES
Tarleton State will be giving away 10,000 rally towels at the game to help promote its Purple Out, as the Texans are encouraging everyone to don their signature color.  
 
Texan Alley Tailgate will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday. The Pointe-du-Hoc rally will be at 4:40 p.m. at Rudder Way Statue. There will be a Tarleton State Game Day Show in Texan Alley from 6-7:30 p.m. featuring ESPN Senior Writer and Personality Dan Wetzel, who will serve as one of three co-hosts throughout the event, along with Tarleton State's radio play-by-play lead Byron Anderson and broadcaster Kendra Sheehan. There will be several other guests on the show throughout the 90 minutes, including Texas A&M System Chancellor Glenn Hegar, Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley, Tarleton State Vice President and Director of Athletics Steve Uryasz, Prairie View A&M President Dr. Tomikia P. LeGrande and host of The Bluebloods Podcast and FCS analyst Zach McKinnell.
 
Memorial Stadium gates will open at 6:30 p.m. The Sound and the Fury will perform at 7:43 p.m., followed by the New Student Run, where thousands of Tarleton State's newest students will race the length of the field. The national anthem will be at 7:56 p.m. The Texan Rider will lead the Texans onto the field at 8 p.m. followed by the coin toss at 8:02 p.m. Kickoff will be at 8:05 p.m.
 
Single-game tickets can be purchased and claimed at TarletonSports.com/Tickets. Fans should add their tickets to their mobile wallet before arriving on campus.
 
ABOUT THE MATCHUP

• This is the third all-time meeting, and the first in 31 years. The Texans are 2-0 against the Panthers, with a 44-6 home win on Sept. 23, 1995, and a 70-20 road win on Nov. 5, 1994.
• Tarleton State scored 10 touchdowns in the 1994 matchup, the third most scored in a game in program history (most is 12 in 2015).
• Tarleton State's meetings with PVAMU were the two seasons just before Todd Whitten's first year at the helm in Stephenville (1996).
• Prairie View A&M won the SWAC championship last year, their first SWAC title since 2009 (12th all-time). They then fell 40-38 in 4OT in the 2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl HBCU National Championship.  

 
QUICK HITS

• This game marks the launch of the Texas A&M System's Chancellor's Cup, a new tradition that will celebrate competition, school pride and excellence across its universities. The winning team Saturday will win the first Cup.
• Across D1 football's opening slate (FBS, FCS), this is the only matchup featuring two 10+ win teams from a season ago. The Texans won a UAC co-championship and finished with the tied-most wins in program history (12).
• The Texans advanced to the FCS Playoffs Quarterfinals in just their second year of D1 postseason eligibility. Tarleton State became the first FCS team since 1993 (Troy) to make the quarterfinals in one of its first two years.
• This is the third straight year that Tarleton State has played on the "soft launch" to a college football season, in what used to be called Week 0. The Texans were one of just 14 teams to open 2024 on Week 0, beating McNeese at home 26-23 on ESPN 2. Last year, the Texans played on Week 0 at Portland State on ESPN 2, winning 42-0.
• The Texans are ranked No. 5 in both major preseason polls. The Texans have been ranked in 27 straight poll iterations, dating back to the 2024 preseason, one of seven teams able to make that claim.
• Tarleton State's 8 p.m. CT kickoff is the Texans' latest kickoff at home on record in program history. The Texans last kicked off at 8 p.m. CT or later on Oct. 16, 2021, as the Texans rolled Utah Tech in St. George, Utah, 41-20.

 
THE CHANCELLOR'S CUP
The Texas A&M System is beginning a new tradition that will celebrate competition, school pride and excellence across its universities, dubbed the Chancellor's Cup. The first Chancellor's Cup will be on the line Aug. 29, when Tarleton State hosts Prairie View A&M at Memorial Stadium in Stephenville. After the game, Texas A&M System Chancellor Glenn Hegar will present the Cup on the field to the winning university's president, athletic director and head football coach.
 
 "Our universities have their own colors, mascots, fight songs and traditions, and that is exactly how it should be," Hegar said. "The Chancellor's Cup gives us a way to celebrate that pride, stir up a little friendly competition and remind folks across Texas just how much talent and spirit we have across the A&M System."
 
Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley said hosting the first Chancellor's Cup game will be a special moment for Tarleton State, Stephenville and the A&M System.
 
"Tarleton State is proud to host the first Chancellor's Cup game in Stephenville," Hurley said. "This new tradition will bring students, alumni, fans and communities together while showcasing the energy and momentum across the Texas A&M System under Chancellor Hegar's leadership!"
 
While the first Cup will be decided on the football field, the long-term vision is broader. Future Chancellor's Cup competitions may include men's and women's athletics, academic contests, club competitions and other signature events that highlight student success and institutional excellence across the System.
 
The Chancellor's Cup is intended to represent the full A&M System, including its member universities, its student traditions and its shared commitment to serving Texas. Each winning university will be recognized as part of the Chancellor's Cup tradition.
 
The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest and most impactful higher education systems in the country. Its statewide network includes 12 universities, a comprehensive health science center, eight state agencies, Texas A&M–Fort Worth and Texas A&M–RELLIS.
 
WELCOME TO STEPHENVILLE
The Texans announced in February a record 63-man National Signing Day class. This is the largest NSD class in Tarleton State Football history, and likely the best. According to AthLinkd, College Football's Premier Prospect Database, Tarleton State had the No. 1 class across all of the FCS. Earlier in the portal window, 247Sports had the Texans as the No. 1 ranked portal class in the FCS. 
 
Of the 63 players in the NSD class, 37 are on defense, 23 on offense, and three specifically for special teams. Of the 63, 54 are transfers and nine are high school signings. Of the transfers, 17 are joining Tarleton State from the FBS level, 10 are staying in the FCS, nine are from NCAA Division II and 16 are from the JUCO ranks. The largest class by position is the defensive line with 14, followed by 13 in the secondary, 10 linebackers, seven offensive linemen, six wide receivers, four quarterbacks, four running backs, two tight ends, a long snapper, a kicker and a punter. Statewise, 32 players are from Texas, five are from Florida and five from Georgia, with several others in the mix.
 
And finally, there are 24 players who earned stars as a prospect in high school, with three four-star prospects, 20 three-star prospects and one two-star prospect. In June, Tarleton State announced the additions of three more highly touted prospects, a four-star offensive lineman Nyier Daniels from Georgia, a three-star defensive lineman and former Georgia commit Seven Cloud, and three-star running back and JUCO All-American Markellus Bass. So new to Tarleton State, there 27 prospects who earned stars as a prospect, with four four-star prospects, 22 three-star prospects and one two-star prospect. The four-star student-athletes are Daniels, QB Braedyn Locke, DB Kenyan Kelly, and kicker Alejandro De La Poza.
 
"We needed to replenish a large class – just about every starter on the defensive side were seniors, which is good – our plan is to be old every year and have a veteran team," head coach Todd Whitten said. "So, a big class graduated and we have a big class coming in. Our recent success has really helped us attract the best of the best here, not to mention our elite facilities, investment and culture."
 
HISTORIC SEASON
The Texans just posted one of the most impressive campaigns in program history. The Texans won a United Athletic Conference co-championship and had the tied-most wins in Tarleton State Football history (12). The Texans finished 12-2 overall and 7-1 in UAC play, advancing to the FCS Playoffs Quarterfinals in just their second year of D1 postseason eligibility. Tarleton State became the first FCS team since 1993 (Troy) to make the quarterfinals in one of its first two seasons of playoff eligibility (8+ team format in FCS). The Texans are the first active FCS team since 1985 to accomplish that feat.
- Tarleton State (2025)
- Troy (1993)
- UCF (1990)
- Eastern Washington (1985)
- Holy Cross (1983)
- Indiana State (1983)
- Southern Illinois (1983)
- Colgate (1982)
- Eastern Illinois (1982)
- Western Carolina (1982)
- South Carolina State (1981)
- Tennessee State (1981)
- Delaware (1981)
- Boise State (1980)
 
Tarleton State is also one of four Texas schools to make an FCS Playoffs Quarterfinal in its first or second playoff appearance.
- Tarleton State (2025)
- Texas State (2005)
- Stephen F. Austin (1988)
- North Texas (1983)
 
Also, the Texans won a pair of nationally televised games (42-0 at Portland State on ESPN 2 during Week 0, 30-27 OT at Army on CBS Sports Network during Week 1) and were ranked as high as No. 2 in the national polls. Offensively, the Texans were one of the best teams in the nation, ranked No. 1 in scoring (42.4 points per game), No. 8 in total offense (457.6 YPG), No. 16 in passing offense (263.6 YPG), and No. 18 in rushing offense (193.9 YPG). Turnovers and takeaways were a major reason for Tarleton State's historic campaign. On offense, the Texans turned the ball over just nine times, the tied-fifth fewest amount of turnovers lost across the FCS. On the flip side, Tarleton State earned 39 takeaways, by far the most in the FCS with the next closest team at 28. The Texans' 38 takeaways are the most by an FCS team since 2017 (James Madison with 44). Tarleton State averaged a turnover margin of +2.14, the third highest average turnover margin in FCS history. Furthermore defensively, Tarleton State was No. 8 in pass defense (163.9 YPG allowed), 10th in scoring defense (18.6 PPG allowed) and No. 21 in total defense (331.4 YPG allowed).
 
PRESEASON ALL-AMERICANS
Two Tarleton State Football players earned a spot on one of the most prestigious preseason lists in the country, as Texan offensive lineman Aidan Moe and Texan kick returner DeAndre Buchannon were both named 2026 Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-Americans.  Moe and Buchannon were both placed on the Preseason All-America Second Team. Moe is among 10 offensive linemen on one of the first two All-America Teams, and Buchannon is one of two kick returners.
 
Moe is entering his second season at Tarleton State after earning a spot on the UAC Second Team All-Conference last year. He started all 14 games for the Texans on the offensive line last season, helping the Texans rank No. 1 in scoring offense (42.4 points per game), No. 8 in total offense (457.6 YPG), No. 16 in passing offense (263.6 YPG), and No. 18 in rushing offense (193.9 YPG). He also helped the Texans rank No. 2 in the conference in sacks allowed during the regular season (1.83 allowed per game). On offense, the Texans turned the ball over just nine times, the tied-fifth fewest amount of turnovers lost across the FCS.
 
Buchannon is an in-conference transfer, arriving at Tarleton State from fellow UAC member West Georgia. He was First Team All-UAC as a return specialist last year, ranked sixth in the country in kickoff returns at nearly 30 yards per return. He served West Georgia as both a kick returner and punt returner, taking a kickoff 92 yards to the house in the season opener against Samford on Aug. 28, rattling off four 30-plus yard kick returns throughout the season and a 33-yard punt return against Nicholls State.
 
This is the fourth straight year Tarleton State has earned recognition on the Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-America Teams. Last year, offensive lineman Hunter Smith was on the list, and became First Team All-Conference. In 2024, running back Kayvon Britten and wide receiver Darius Cooper made the preseason team, and both turned in All-American seasons.
 
WALTER PAYTON AWARD WATCH LIST
The national award for the offensive player of the year has a Tarleton State running back on its preseason watch list. Texan RB Tylan Hines is on the Walter Payton Award Preseason Watch List, announced by Stats Perform. There are 30 players on the preseason watch list for the Payton, presented annually to the national offensive player of the year in Division I FCS college football.
 
The award, in its 40th anniversary, is affectionately known as the Heisman of the FCS, named for legendary running back Walter Payton. Past recipients include Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook and Cooper Kupp. Hines is one of 11 running backs on the preseason watch list, along with 11 QB's and eight wide receivers.
 
Hines is entering his second season in Stephenville. After getting injured on Tarleton State's first drive in 2025, which caused Hines to miss the next nine games, he shined in the team's final four, two coming in the playoffs. Hines totaled 490 rushing yards (122.5 rushing yards per game) with three rushing touchdowns on 78 carries (6.3 YPC) over the final four. He had a season-high 215 rushing yards and a touchdown in Tarleton State's UAC co-championship clinching win against Austin Peay in the regular season finale.
 
BEST IN TEXAS
Todd Whitten began his third stint as head coach for Tarleton State Football in 2016. Since that mark, now in Tarleton State's 10th season, the Texans have the highest win percentage among scholarship football programs in the entire state of Texas. The Texans enter Saturday's game with a .692 winning percentage since the start of 2016, the highest mark across all of the NCAA Division I and II programs in the state. They have 81 wins since the start of 2016, the second most wins in the state by an NCAA Division I or II program. The list of the top scholarship programs in Texas over that span are as follows:
 

#	School	Conf.	Win Pct.
1.	Tarleton State	UAC	.692
2.	Sam Houston	C-USA	.661
	Angelo State	LSC	.661
4.	Texas	SEC	.654
5.	Texas A&M	SEC	.640
6.	SMU	American	.635
7.	TCU	Big 12	.598
8.	East Texas A&M	SLC	.586
9.	UTSA	C-USA	.567
10.	Midwestern State	LSC	.566

 

#	School	Conf.	Wins
1.	Texas	SEC	85
2.	Tarleton State	UAC	81
3.	Texas A&M	SEC	80
	SMU	American	80
5.	Sam Houston	C-USA	78
6.	TCU	Big 12	76
7.	UTSA	American	72
	Angelo State	LSC	72
9.	Houston	Big 12	68
10.	North Texas	American	67

 
WHITTEN THE WINNER
Tarleton State Football and head coach Todd Whitten agreed to a contract extension during the offseason, extending him two years through 2029.
 
"Todd Whitten is one of the best FCS coaches in the country, and we're excited to keep him right here with Texan Nation," said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. "Of course, we're proud of the wins and the championships and how quickly Coach Whitten has turned Tarleton State into an elite program at the FCS level, but we're most proud of the impact he makes off the football field. Coach Whitten invests so much time in these players to make sure they become –– more than great football players –– great husbands, fathers and citizens. His commitment to academic success and making sure his players graduate is what sets him apart and we're excited to keep Coach Whitten at Tarleton State."
 
Whitten just finished top-five in the voting for the 2025 Eddie Robinson Award, which goes to the national coach of the year.
 
"Coach Whitten is one of the best coaches I've had the pleasure of working with, and this is a much-deserved extension," Vice President and Director of Athletics Steve Uryasz said. "I couldn't be more thrilled for the Texan Football program to keep elevating and giving our student-athletes the best experience possible. Coach Whitten will continue to represent our department and university to the highest extent."
 
Whitten is the winningest coach in Tarleton State Football history, now with a 126-59 (.681) all-time record for the Purple and White across 16 seasons, and a 151-87 (.634) spot all-time as an NCAA head coach (21 seasons). He's won seven Coach of the Year awards, six coming straight from the conference itself. Since 2018, the Texans have had the highest winning percentage among all Texas D1 and D2 programs (.745, 70-24). Among Whitten's 16 completed seasons at Tarleton State, his team has finished .500 or better 15 times. The Texans have reached double-digit wins seven times in program history – Whitten has been the head coach for five of those seasons.
 
"Being the head football coach at Tarleton State is the best job in the world," Whitten said. "This is the best place to be, and the best people are here. Thank you to President Hurley and Steve Uryasz, as well as the Texas A&M Board of Regents and Chancellor Glenn Hegar for continuing to believe in me. We've done so many special things at Tarleton State, and I know we will continue to bring great football to Stephenville for Texan Nation."
 
PRESEASON ALL-CONFERENCE
After sharing the UAC regular season championship a season ago, Tarleton State and Abilene Christian have been voted to share the UAC preseason bragging rights, as well. The Texans (three first-place votes, 65 points) and the Wildcats (three first-place votes, 65 points) are tied-atop the 2026 UAC Football Preseason Coaches Poll, following a 2025 campaign with each team winning a share of the UAC championship with 7-1 conference records. Austin Peay received the other first-place votes (two) to finish third in the preseason poll with 62 points. Rounding out the eight conference members were Eastern Kentucky (48 points), Central Arkansas (43 points), West Georgia (39 points), North Alabama (37 points), and West Florida (33 points).
 
The preseason coaches poll and preseason all-conference players poll were voted on by head coaches across the United Athletic Conference. All eight UAC head coaches submitted votes, and they were not allowed to vote for their own players or their own team.
 
The Texans had five earn Preseason All-Conference selections, two on offense, two on special teams and one on defense. Running back Tylan Hines and offensive lineman Aidan Moe represented Tarleton State on offense, punter Charlie Mullen and return specialist DeAndre Buchannon (unanimous) represented the Texan special teams, and defensive back Omar Emmons represented the Texan defense. Tarleton State's five total honorees match the most they've had the D1 level (2025 in the UAC, 2024 in the UAC, 2022 in the WAC). There were 26 players honored across all preseason awards. Tarleton State had the second most honorees with five behind Abilene Christian (eight).
 
NEW IN TOWN
Chris Ross enters his first season as offensive coordinator for the Texans in 2026. Ross arrives in Stephenville after spending 2024-25 at Stephen F. Austin, both years as Offensive Coordinator, plus Assistant Head Coach duties in 2025. With Ross leading the offense from 2024-25, the Lumberjacks ranked No. 7 in the FCS in scoring (35.5 points per game), No. 15 in pass offense (252.3 pass yards per game), and No. 21 in total offense (411.0 yards per game).
 
In 2025, Ross helped the Lumberjacks advance to the FCS Playoffs Quarterfinals and win the Southland Conference championship. Offensively, the 'Jacks ranked No. 14 in scoring (35.4 points per game) and No. 35 in total offense (392.4 yards per game). They were top-10 in both first downs (tied-eighth, 302) and red zone offense (ninth at 0.911). SFA scored 30-plus points in 10 of 14 games this past season, five times scoring 40-plus points with a season-high 63 points against Sul Ross State.
 
Besides two seasons spent at SFA, Ross has spent two additional years in the collegiate ranks at Boise State (2016-17). There he was the director of program development, where he developed coaches and players, plus led recruiting. Ross has nearly 30 years of Texas high school football experience, most recently serving four seasons as the head coach and athletic director at Lovejoy High School in Lucas.
 
PRESEASON PUNTER PROWESS
Tarleton State Football punter Charlie Mullen was one of 14 punters nationwide named to the Augusta Sports Council's 2026 FCS Punter of the Year Award Preseason Watch List. This award honors the nation's top collegiate punter in the Football Championship Series (FCS).
 
NATIONAL LEADER
Across the country, only 10 NCAA Division I teams (eight FBS, two FCS) have a better win percentage than Tarleton State since 2018 (North Dakota State, Ohio State, Georgia, Alabama, Notre Dame, James Madison, Oregon, Montana State, South Dakota State, and Clemson). So among some other elite programs, Tarleton State has a higher W% than the likes of Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa, USC, LSU, etc.
 

#	School	Conf.	Win Pct.
1.	North Dakota State	MWC	.878
2.	Ohio State	Big 10	.876
3.	Georgia	SEC	.873
4.	Alabama	SEC	.847
5.	Notre Dame	Ind.	.829
6.	James Madison	SBC	.804
7.	Oregon	Big 10	.798
8.	Montana State	MVFC	.792
9.	South Dakota State	MVFC	.791
10.	Clemson	ACC	.789
11.	Tarleton State	UAC	.745
12.	Montana	Big Sky	.740
13.	Oklahoma	SEC	.731
14.	Dartmouth	Ivy	.729
15.	Boise State	MWC	.716

 
7: Tarleton State is the only NCAA Division I program in Texas with seven straight winning seasons. Among head coach Todd Whitten's 15 completed seasons at Tarleton State, his team has finished .500 or better 14 times, the only losing record at 5-6 in 2016.
 
27: Tarleton State welcomes 27 newcomers who are star-prospects, with four four-star prospects, 22 three-star prospects and one two-star prospect. The four-star student-athletes are QB Braedyn Locke, DB Kenyan Kelly, OL Nyier Daniels, and kicker Alejandro De La Poza.
 
4: Tarleton State has won four straight season openers, three by 16+ points. Last year the Texans blanked Portland State on the road 42-0 on ESPN 2 to start 2025.
 
5: The Texans have won five straight home openers, and are 5-1 in home openers in their D1 era. Four of the five wins have been by 16+ points, with last year's home opener the largest blowout, a 59-3 romping of Mississippi Valley State.
 
1: Tarleton State scored its most points in a season in program history last year, totaling 594 points on the year, surpassing 585 scored in 2018. The Texans averaged the most points across the FCS at 42.4 PPG.
 
LET'S GET PERSONAL
All of the Tarleton State players have great stories and unique things about them -- here are some of the most notable...
 
#0 Markellus Bass (RB)
• Didn't play running back until senior year of high school. Played wide receiver and nickel before being converted to running back.
• Chose Tarleton State for winning culture. Coach Pearson and Coach Whitten were big factors in his decision.
• Enjoys video games and hanging out with friends.
• Considers going to JUCO the biggest obstacle he has faced. Was not a starter until Week 5 of freshman year.
• Hidden talent is playing the drums
 
#0 Caden Holt (LB)
• Recently got master's degree in sport management
• Pursuing a second master's in education and technology
• Recently got married on June 12 of this year
• Kyle Jackson, Vililami Wolfgramm, Devin Sterling, Sione Teuhema (all Tarleton State Football players) were groomsmen at his wedding
• Enjoys spending time with his wife and walking his dog
 
#1 Jadan Aubert (DB)
• Majoring in general business
• Nickname is Pluto
• Hobbies include working out and hunting
 
#1 Tylan Hines (RB)
• Major is Sports Management
• Enjoys playing the piano, playing tennis and fishing
• Has played piano since he was 12
• Picked up tennis when he was in college
• Overcoming his 2025 injury last season was the biggest obstacle he ever faced
 
#2 Jackson Gilkey (QB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the culture, hometown feel, and the coaches
• Business major
• Enjoys golfing and hunting
• Broke ankle last year
• Can solve a rubix cube
 
#2 Jeremiah Postell (DB)
• Got his bachelor's degree in computer science and software engineering
• Working on a post grad program in kinesiology
• Was in the play "The Nutcracker" in 2008-09
• Enjoys painting
• Joined the team as a walk-on before being put on scholarship in the 2025 Spring Game
 
#3 Ja'Mareion Gipson (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because he wanted to be part of a winning program
• Enjoys fishing
• Considers finding the right coaching staff the biggest obstacle he's had to overcome
 
#3 Tanner Schmidt (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches and had a good connection with Coach Tate Whitten
• Loves to play pickleball, spikeball and being outdoors
• Played D2 out of high school and went back to JUCO, felt like that was the biggest obstacle he's had to overcome
• Has a dog named Rocky. Rescued him from the local shelter. Coach Whitten's wife helped him adopt his dog.
 
#4 Omar Emmons (LB)
• Pursuing a master's degree in marketing
• Received his undergraduate degree in general studies
• Hobbies include fishing, hunting and being around family
• Considers being overlooked and undersized his biggest obstacle. "I've always had a chip on my shoulder."
 
#4 Brian Fleming Jr. (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was close to home
• Hobbies include video games, billiards and bowling
• Considers COVID the biggest obstacle he has had to overcome
 
#5 Aiden Ramos (RB)
• Chose Tarleton State after his visit on Nov. 14 against North Alabama and seeing the run game the Texans have. Wanted to be part of a winning culture.
• Big time fisherman and favorite place to fish is Mammoth Lakes.
• Caught a trout with his bare hands when he was 10 years old
 
#5 Stephen Woods Jr. (DB)
• Changed his number to No. 5 for his biggest inspiration in football: Jalen Ramsey. Number five was his favorite number growing up.
• Graduated with a master's degree in marketing from Tarleton State.
• Nickname is SJ
• Hobbies include fishing, bowling, designing clothes, cooking and dancing
• Big into fashion and has his own clothing line
• Considers going through COVID in 2020 the biggest obstacle he faced because his high school recruiting was halted. He had to work through that to get recognition.
 
#6 Ajai Harrell (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State for the community and Dr. Hurley, seeing how connected he was to the campus
• Majoring in biomedical sciences
• Wants to go into the biomedical field and prosthetics after football
• Hobbies include going for walks, poetry and DJing
 
#6 Darrion Perry (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it felt like home and was the place that he could grow the most
• Business major and minor in data analytics
• Aspires to work in finances after football
• Hobbies include fishing and bowling
• Went to Anderson University. Recruited there despite not having a football team yet. Didn't play his freshman season because the program hadn't started yet.
 
#7 Seven Cloud (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Nix and Coach Tate
• Late commit that was going to commit to Mizzou, but the DL coach and Coach Tate connected to get him to Tarleton State
• Knee injury affected his recruitment
• Is a father to a 1-year-old daughter named Golden
• Basketball was his first sport
 
#7 Marquis Willis (WR)
• Brother, Malik, is a quarterback for the Miami Dolphins
• Is a father to a 2-year-old, Myair
• Changed major to sport management
• Enjoys playing video games and golfing
 
#8 Fredd Adams (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the great fit and felt like home
• Hobbies include card games, playing piano, sleep and hanging out with friends
• Just learned playing piano and has played it for about a year
 
#8 Braedyn Locke (QB)
• Chose Tarleton State because he felt a connection from the get-go: "You really feel the family culture here."
• Texas kid and it meant more to him to come back home and play college football in his home state
• Big into golf and tries to play as much as he can. Also enjoys playing video games.
• Brother is a quarterback at Sam Houston
• Considers going in the portal his biggest challenge and biggest adversity he's faced
• Aunt, Amanda Locke, won a national championship in softball at Alabama
 
#9 DeAndre Buchannon (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State for coaches and school tradition
• Enjoys bowling, skating, and Forex trading
• Considers himself the best singer on the team
• Favorite artist is Lil Baby
 
#9 Lance Carson (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State because of Coach Nix, Coach Tate and Coach Whitten's family style program
• Plays basketball, hunts and fishes in his spare time.
• Also enjoys hanging out with friends and training
• Considers himself a jokester and mysterious
 
#10 Koby Dickens (LB)
• Both sisters competed in track at Tarleton State
• Majoring in business
• Has a fraternal twin brother, Kooper
• Chose his new number because it "looked cool"
• Nickname is "Super Kat"
 
#10 Bryce Parker (WR)
• Majoring in Kinesiology
• Nicknames are BP and Chef
• Enjoys cooking, exploring different places and trying new food spots
• Also enjoys being active
 
#11 Mekhi Gibson (WR)
• Enjoys video games, listening to music and reading his Bible
• Involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes on campus
• Always looks to be "strong minded" when adversity hits
 
#11 Amir Scarver (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Nix
• Has never played linebacker before he got to Tarleton State
• Watches a lot of Anime and Fortnite
• Was unsure if he was going to continue playing football after he hit the transfer portal
 
#12 Kaden Anderson (QB)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Ross, close to home and winning culture
• Majoring in general studies with a minor in kinesiology
• Tore ACL twice in high school
• Lost father in high school to brain cancer
• Enjoys the mountains and is an avid snowboarder
• Also enjoys fly fishing
 
#12 Kenyon Rivera
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Nix.
• Enjoys fishing, has done it his whole life.
• Biggest fish he's caught is a 3-4 pound bass
• Right arm tattoo is dedicated to his grandpa. Favorite memories from him were playing billiards and baseball with him.
• Left leg tattoos symbolize him and lessons he's learned from relatives
 
#13 Kauna'oa Kamakawiwoole (QB)
• Tarleton State was his only offer
• Coach Ross made Tarleton State feel like home
• Hobbies include golfing, fishing and surfing
• Missed five games last year in JUCO due to injury
• Close with Tanner Schmidt on the Texans
• Big into his Christian faith
• Third cousin is Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, the famous Hawaiian singer.
 
#13 Nicc Oliver (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State due to it being closer to his hometown (Fort Worth, Texas)
• Enjoys fishing, video games, mini golf, bowling and having fun
• Had a cataract removed from his left eye. Has only one eye he can see out of. Was born with that condition and had it his whole life.
• Has enhanced hearing.
• Comes from a big family. Mom has seven kids.
• Business management major. Aspires to be a stockbroker after college.
 
#14 James Paige (RB)
• Changed major to Sport Management
• Related to Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson
• Converted to running back full-time after being one of the best dual threat players in FCS
• Only boy of five girls in his family
• Loves to play video games and go on walks
 
#14 Sione Teuhema (LB)
• Older brother, Tuli, helped him come to Tarleton State
• Enjoys board games and outdoor activities
• Played defensive end before switched to inside linebacker at Tarleton State
• Birthday occurs on New Year's Day
 
#15 Cardea Collier (QB)
• Majoring in Sports Management
• Enjoys listening to music and playing video games
• Was always called "too small" to play football. Has always used that as motivation
 
#15 Isaiah Johnson (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State because they were "ready to take a chance" on him before he made his decision
• Enjoys playing with his dogs in his free time.
• Says having "sense of security" has been his biggest obstacle he has had to overcome
• Can do backflips
 
#16 Desmond Brown (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was the school that allowed him to play the style he wanted to play.
• Enjoys socializing, reading, cooking, music and diving deep into his Christian faith
• Tore his knee last season and played the entire season on it
• Dealt with a tough season last year after his grandpa passed away and mental obstacles
• Was featured on his local TV news station
• Basketball was his first love before football
• Favorite athlete is LeBron James
 
#16 Ike Hall (QB)
• May 14th is "Ike Hall Day" in Brownwood, Texas. Given the honor due to leading Brownwood Football to its best playoff finish ever and winning state track in triple jump
• First time playing wide receiver was at Tarleton State. Coach Tate Whitten saw him running and catching during practice and wanted to try him out at receiver.
• Stepping into more of a leadership role in 2026
• Big-time FIFA and NCAA Football video game player
• Involved in his church in Brownwood, Texas
 
#17 Kaleb Brown (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the opportunity to come to a new place and showcase his ability at a high level.
• Enjoys fishing, hunting and bowling
• Considers getting in the portal and going to a D3 school as the biggest obstacles he's had to overcome
• Top 100 ranked player in online in NCAA Football video game
 
#17 Mike Hodge (WR)
• Majoring in Graphic Design
• Enjoys drawing and spending time with his girlfriend in his spare time
• Goal is to sell his drawings to museums and become an artist
• Tore his meniscus and considers that his biggest obstacle he's had to overcome
 
#18 Camdon Frier (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State for the people and Coach Whitten. "He's one of the most standup humans I've ever met."
• Hobbies include hunting and fishing.
• Had to overcome a sports hernia and multiple hip surgeries.
• Is currently engaged. Wedding date is May 8, 2027.
 
#18 Matt Freeman (LB)
• Obtained Criminal Justice bachelor's degree and is working on his master's degree in business
• Enjoys cooking and video games
• Best thing he can cook is pasta
• Was in a "Sun-Maid Raisins" commercial when he was 13
 
#19 Bryce Green (RB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it felt the most comfortable. "I fell in love with it right away." "Tarleton State was the most honest in my recruitment."
• Enjoys listening to music and playing the piano
• Operates a pressure washing business with his high school friends
 
#19 Kyle Jackson (LB)
• Currently obtaining his master's in marketing. Graduated with a business degree
• "Looking forward to finally playing and playing with a bunch of new teammates."
• Learned patience and the "big picture" after season-ending injury
• Enjoys hiking and going to the beach
• Plans to return to California and get a job in marketing
 
#20 Josiah Jeffery (LB)
• "Coach Nix was a big reason I came here. He was going to push me to be where I want to be."
• Enjoys hot yoga, including taking his teammates to sessions
• Wears a special pregame necklace with his mother's picture on it. His mother died when he was in 10th grade. Tattoo on his right arm honors her as well.
 
#20 Jaylon Sterling (DB)
• Brother, Devin, played linebacker for Tarleton State Football
• Following the family legacy was a big part in why he chose Tarleton State
• Currently practicing physical therapy
• Enjoys playing video games
• Had a wrist surgery during the spring that affected college recruitment. Tarleton State was one of the only schools to continue talking with him after the injury.
• Blind in his right eye. Has been that way since birth.
 
#21 Morsello Hooker (DB)
• Majoring in Sport Management
• Aspires to be a coach after his playing days are over
• Had to overcome being from a small town school
• Enjoys listening to music and being with his family and friends outside of football
• Enjoys singing "I'm the best singer on the team."
• Favorite rapper is Rod Wave and favorite singer is Tyrese Gibson
 
#21 Donald Passmore III (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the team chemistry, community and coaches
• Calls himself a "real laid back guy". Enjoys chilling and watching movies.
• Coming off a breakout season as a sophomore
• Mentality changed from his freshman to sophomore season. Added "fuel to the fire
• Passion for football is "unbearable"
 
#22 Miequle Brock (RB)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Pepe and the culture that is being built
• Enjoys fishing
• Had surgery on both knees in high school
• Was a Freshman All-American in high school
 
#22 Xavier Potts (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the opportunity to get his master's degree and play for one of the best FCS schools in the nation.
• Enjoys fishing, hunting and cooking
• Getting his master's in sport administration
• Considers his height and weight for his position the biggest obstacle he had to overcome
• Played soccer for eight years
 
#23 Alon Woodberry (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches and being closer to home. "Felt like family."
• Big time Oklahoma City Thunder fan and has been to 30-40 games.
• Favorite athlete is Shai-Gilgeous Alexander
• Started playing football in his senior year of high school.
• Enjoys baseball, video games, and fishing
• Considers his journey from going to NAIA, to Division II to Division I as his biggest obstacle
• Used to be an actor. Played "Mogley" in his local production of "The Jungle Book"
• Is Colorblind
 
#24 Avian Rice (DB)
• Nickname is Amoney
• Majoring in sport management
• Enjoys video games
• Has had to deal with a lot of deaths in his family. They serve as motivation for him.
 
#25 Steve Albert Jr. (LB)
• Nickname is Batman -- got it from his grandad because Steve loves superheros
• "Has something to prove to himself" after sitting out with injury last year
• Enjoys video games, including NBA 2K, Madden among others
 
#26 Martin Alisandro (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because of the coaching staff and community. "This community best fits me."
• Enjoys bowling and basketball.
• Comes from a big family, has five sisters and three brothers.
 
#26 Preston Searcy
• Chose Tarleton State for family connections and family environment
• Sister, Landry, was part of the Tarleton State Athletics Internship and is a recruiting assistant with the football team
• Loves to watch bull riding
• Uncle owns his own ranch
• Had to overcome "doubts from people" about going to play Division I.
 
#27 Kenyan Kelly (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because of his connection with Coach Nix
• Enjoys fishing
• Broke his wrist at the start of college career
• "Transferring here was a major change for me."
• Cousin is in NFL, Jadarian Price
 
#28 Fred Adams (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because the coaches made him feel like he was at home
• Overcame delayed graduation from JUCO to come to Tarleton State
• Biggest challenge in his life was making it out of JUCO.
• Two-way specialist
• Enjoys spending time with his family, shopping and eating
• Favorite store is Walmart
• Also played baseball and was a two-sport athlete since he was 11.
 
#29 Kamar Lhomme (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State because the coaching staff pushed the heaviest in his recruitment
• Had open heart surgery in 2019. Had a coronary artery in his heart. Felt fine his whole life but got an EKG that discovered it.
• Holds the record for most interceptions at Independence Community College
 
#30 Markell Johnson (LB)
• Enjoys reading the Bible and is heavily involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes on campus
• Mom is a big part of his motivation and wants to take care of her
 
#31 Deaubry Hood (DB)
• Finance major
• Loves to fish
• Learned how to smoke meats over the summer
 
#32 Roddrick Roberts (LB)
• Major changed to Construction
• Enjoys fishing, especially in ponds in Texas.
• Once caught a seven-pound bass
 
#33 Gerard Cullota (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was close to home and felt like a family
• Big time fisher
• Battled numerous injuries throughout his career
• Mom's side of the family is from Africa, travels there often to visit family
• Can speak African
 
#35 Cayden Cutler (LB)
• New nickname is "Cut"
• Aspires to work in NIL in finance after football
• Enjoys golfing and his favorite course is Willow Creek.
• Biggest obstacles during career were being injured at Tarleton State. Traveled as a freshman but was not on the travel roster as a sophomore and junior.
 
#36 Nigel Mills (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the culture and the love and support from the staff
• Enjoys cars
• Overcoming a season-ending injury
 
#36 Amechi Ofili (TE)
• Nickname is "Meech"
• Wants to be a physical therapist after college
• Enjoys listening to music, especially Nigerian gospel
• Was recruited by Tarleton State late in high school
• Brother, Cheta, plays at TCU
 
#37 Jolon Cabello (P)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was close to home and fell in love with the area
• Big time soccer player and played for 15 years
• Started as a quarterback in high school but then moved to punter
• Both left-handed and left-footed
• Played soccer overseas in Portugal (2023) and Spain (2019) and competed against pro teams in those countries. Competed for Barça Academy.
• Blind in his right eye. Has been that way since birth.
 
#38 Danny Hojdea (DB)
• General Business Major
• Enjoys hunting, wake surfing
 
#40 Kenyon Partridge (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the love he was shown at Tarleton State and the beautiful campus
• Enjoys hanging out with his dog, family, reading the Bible and looking at nature
• Playing football in college was a childhood dream and considers accomplishing that goal the biggest accomplishment.
• Also ran track & field in high school
 
#41 Kam Robinson (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches and close to home
• Considers going to JUCO the biggest obstacle he has faced
 
#41 Kyle Thompson (TE)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was close to home
• Nickname is Boogie
• Getting master's in business management
• Enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with family
 
#42 Brian Hood (DB)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Nix
• Avid fisher and fishing, with his favorite place to fish being Belton Lake
• Biggest fish he's ever caught is an eight-pound bass
 
#42 Tate Maruska (RB)
• Father is Chief Medical Officer at Tarleton State
• Stephenville kid
• Enjoys hunting
 
#43 Chris Robinson (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it was the best fit and he felt that Coach Nix can take him where he wants to go
• Raps and creates content outside of football
• Tore his meniscus before arriving at Oklahoma State. Had to go back to the JUCO route in order to be at Tarleton State.
 
#44 O'Shea Miller (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for Coach Nix and the way he presents himself
• Enjoys fishing and cooking
• Says being long distance from home is a challenge for him
 
#45 Sam Robles (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches, culture and the support
• Enjoys thrift shops and music
• Considers getting in the transfer portal his toughest challenge
• Half Samoien
• Has a tattoo on his neck for his mom's birthday
 
#46 Hudson Hays (TE)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches, community and great location
• Hobbies include hunting and fishing
• Had a palsy as a one-year-old, doctors said he wouldn't be able to play any sports
• Went to a lot of physical therapy as a toddler
 
#47 Jake Gillespie
• Chose Tarleton State because of Coach Whitten
• Enjoys hunting and fishing
• Had shoulder surgery eight months ago
• Faith-oriented, has tattoos of his faith on his left arm.
• Involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes on campus
 
#47 Charlie Robinson (TE)
• Been married for two years to his wife, Tatum
• Pursuing master's degree in Ag and Natural Resource Sciences
• Recovering from achilles surgery from last year
 
#48 Broderick Johnson (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches and was close to home
• Enjoys watching a lot of movies and shows
• Overcame a broken foot at SFA
• Has a tattoo of his brother's birthday on his right forearm
 
#49 Quice Hill (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State because of a former teammate, Gabe Douglas, that came here and for Coach Nix.
• Enjoys listening to music, skateboarding, swimming and cooking
• Says overcoming an MCL injury and losing his stepdad was the biggest adversity he had to overcome
• Ran AAU and High School track and played basketball
• Calls himself a "freak athlete"
 
#50 Braxton Goff (OL)
• Majoring in sport management
• Hobbies include weight lifting and golf
• Considers going to JUCO and being undersized for his position as the biggest obstacles he's had to overcome
• Nickname is "The Golf Ball"
 
#52 Nate Boudy (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the opportunity to develop under really good coaching
• Enjoys cooking
• Has had surgery on both of his shoulders in college
• Has a tattoo with an ace on it for his mom. Nickname is "ace"
 
#53 Terrance Saunders II (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because of the caring coaching staff as people, not just football players
• Enjoys playing video games and practicing butterfly magic tricks
• Started butterfly magic tricks when he was a junior in high school. Saw it on YouTube one day and picked it up after.
• Currently learning Japanese
• Nickname is Mr. Matrix
 
#53 CJ Spellmeier (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State because his mom and grandma worked at the university.
• Grandmother was Cheryl Spellmeier, former secretary for the Tarleton State Football Team and Athletic Hall of Fame member.
• Enjoys working out and playing video games
• Always had to overcome his "small size" for his position
• Anchored in the 4 x 100 and 4 x 200 in track & field in high school
• Loves churros
 
#55 Derek Joiner (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because of his older brother, Danny, and liked the coaching staff
• Enjoys fishing, camping and video games
• State champion wrestler and shot putter in high school
 
#56 Bleu Hubbard (LB)
• Chose Tarleton State because it is close to home and both his parents are alums
• Mother studied elementary education and father studied business marketing
• Once cleared out a whole classroom out with pepper spray
• Enjoys team roping, fishing and hanging out.
 
#57 Fred Fisher (LB)
• Majoring in electrical engineering
• Enjoys playing video games and legos
• Got straight A's last semester in "the toughest semester he'll face"
• Has dual citizenship in Europe. Mother is 100% Greek and from Cyprus -- visits there every summer.
• One of two engineering majors on the team
 
#58 Jerbari Booth (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the opportunity
• Enjoys swimming
• Favorite food is chicken
 
#58 Xavier Parker (OL)
• Changed major to Finance
• Enjoys playing video games, basketball and fishing
• Loves watching Anime
 
#59 Jackson Lang (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State for the culture and the high level of play on the field
• Enjoys video games
• First person in his family to play Division I football
 
#60 Malekai Wheeler (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because he wanted to win
• Enjoys fishing, golfing and playing guitar
• Majoring in general business
 
#65 Landon Rangel (OL)
• Majoring in construction management and science
• Enjoys fishing
• First member of his family to go to college
 
#66 Jake Hall (OL)
• Grandfather, Ray Hall, played baseball in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization in the 1960's
• Majoring in general business
 
#67 Keldrick Davis (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because it felt like home and was closer to his hometown. "Coach Carey showed me love."
• Enjoys fishing and playing video games
• Had to overcome people saying he was "too short" to play offensive line
 
#70 Antonio Heath (OL)
• Majoring in athletic strength and conditioning
• Nickname is Big Ant, given to him by Coach Carey
• Enjoys studying botany in his spare time
• Has hydroponic plants at his house.
 
#70 Kolton Dearth (DL)
• Son of former Tarleton State great and NFL tight end/long snapper, James Dearth
• Chose Tarleton State for the coaches and Stephenville
• "Stephenville is home for me"
• Majoring in Kinesiology
• Enjoys rock music and weight lifting
 
#71 Connor Beeman (OL)
• Majoring in kinesiology
• Chose Tarleton State because Coach Carey was from the same hometown and high school as him. "I didn't get that connection with anybody else."
• Dealing with his grandma's health issues is the biggest piece of adversity he is facing. "She's my best friend." Currently dealing with pneumonia  and in ICU.
• Enjoys watching movies, watching Anime and playing video games
 
#73 Aidan Moe (OL)
• Has moved 17 times
• Graduated with a sport management degree and currently getting his master's in business management
• Enjoys playing video games and watching movies
• Big Marvel fan, favorite hero is Captain America
• Had two surgeries in college and overcame them to play in college
 
#74 Braylon Reado (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because he is big on "family feel"
• Majoring Business
• Aspires to start his own food drive and give back to the community
• Enjoys video games, cooking, music
• Lost 25 pounds playing basketball
• Played basketball his whole life
 
#75 Alex Todt (OL)
• Majoring in business with a minor in marketing
• Name means "Great warrior of death"
• Enjoys cooking and will cook anything
 
#76 Michael Collins (OL)
• Majoring in business
• Enjoys fishing and lifting weights, hanging out with family and friends
 
#77 Caleb Flores (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because of Coach Carey and has aspirations to win a national championship
• Hobbies include repairing computers and fishing
 
#78 Evan Carney (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State for coaching staff, facilities and good support from administration
• Enjoys fishing
 
#79 Nyier Daniels (OL)
• Chose Tarleton State because "why not"
• Hobbies include cars, shooting and riding on his four-wheeler
• Can do handstands
 
#80 Colton Rodriguez (WR)
• Chose Tarleton State for the culture and the people around. "This place made me feel like home and was a great fit for me."
• Enjoys skiing and playing video games
• Broke his fingers when he first arrived on campus. "It takes a big mental toll on not only football, but your life as well."
• Went to the State Championship meet in Track & Field all four years of high school
 
#81 Alejandro De La Poza (K)
• Chose Tarleton State because of the coaching staff and connected with Coach Walton
• Enjoys golf and playing video games
• From Spain, went to Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita, Kansas, in 2022 and was introduced to football there. Played soccer all his life. One of the first guys from that school to play D1 football from that school.
• Was not given the option to pick which high school he went to.
• Wanted to come to the United States to learn English.
• Having connections was difficult not knowing English 100%.
• All-American in high school.
 
#82 Cydd Ford (WR)
• Enjoys playing PlayStation
• Had to learn lots of patience while he was here
• Switched positions twice since his arrival. Went from quarterback, to defensive back to wide receiver.
• Enjoys playing basketball
 
#83 Charlie Mullen (P)
• Big time Ping Pong player: "I'm the best ping pong player on the team"
 
#84 Tanner Smith (LS)
• Majoring in business management
• Enjoys fishing and hunting
• Had to overcome his "small size" to play college football
• Two-sport athlete in JUCO (played football and baseball)
 
#85 Klein Essler (TE)
• New major is business management
• Enjoys hunting
• Considers stepping into a larger role as his biggest challenge he's faced
 
#88 Jaxson Lavender (WR)
• Working on his MBA
• Enjoys volleyball and pickleball
• Considers leaving SMU as the toughest adversity he's faced
• Great uncle was a World Champion Bull Rider, Sonny Lavender
• Related to one of the 12 mighty orphans, Harrison Miller Mosley
 
#89 Grant Ghali (WR)
• Majoring in Psychology
• Enjoys video games and hanging out with friends
• Recently lost both of his grandparent
 
#90 Maxx Malyk (K)
• Majoring in civil engineering
• Enjoys playing golf
 
#91 Jaydan Shaw (DL)
• Majoring in Sports Business
• Enjoys gaming and coloring
• Tarleton State was his only offer out of high school
• Favorite snack is ice cream
 
#92 Manny Lawton (DL)
• Chose Tarleton State because he felt like it was the best opportunity for him
• Enjoys fishing, cars and hanging out with his girlfriend
• Had a plethora of injuries he had to overcome entering college
• Enjoys day trading
 
#94 Marius Landsfeld (DL)
• From Germany. Got to the United States through an organization called PPI.
• Majoring in General Studies
• Introduced to football by watching the Super Bowl on TV back in Germany
 
#95 Tanner Thompson (DL)
• Majoring in Sport Management
• Enjoys gaming
• Had to overcome "people hating on him"
 
#96 Eric Balch (LB)
• Majoring in Finance
• Loves to fish and hunt
• Enjoys driving and listening to music
• Had two D1 offers before having them taken away two weeks before signing day. Committed to another day before being let go. Then ended up at Tarleton State
• Thankful for everyone that helped him get here
 
#98 Maasai Gibson (DL)
• Majoring in general studies
• Enjoys going to the beach, go-cart racing, basketball, swimming and visiting aquariums
• Dealing with deaths in the family: two of his best friends and his grandfather
• Didn't start playing football until his senior year of high school
• Had surgery on his right big toe
• Used to be a lifeguard
 
#99 Kareem Edmon (DL)
• Majoring in general studies
• Enjoys fishing and hunting
• Considers going to JUCO as the toughest obstacle he has faced in his life
 
UP NEXT
The Texans will face the FBS' Bowling Green in Ohio on Saturday, Sept. 5, at 11 a.m. CT.