Football
10/28/2024 12:47:00 PM
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STEPHENVILLE, Texas – After enduring more than a year without a loss to a non-FBS program, the <a href="https://www.archyde.com/the-biggest-fcs-conference-matchups-of-september-rankings-playoff-positioning-and-auto-bids-on-the-line/" title="The Biggest FCS Conference Matchups of September: Rankings, Playoff Positioning, and Auto Bids on the Line”>Tarleton State Texans football team is riding the momentum of their impressive performances, which has resonated with voters in the latest national rankings and propelled them to new heights.
The Texans have ascended to an impressive No. 7 position in both prominent FCS national polls—the esteemed Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll and the AFCA Coaches Poll—following their recent successes.
This upward movement follows a notable defeat of North Dakota, who fell in an overtime thriller to Youngstown State on Saturday. In contrast, the Texans delivered a powerful performance on the road, overcoming the defending UAC champions, Austin Peay, with a final score of 27-17 in Clarksville, Tennessee, solidifying their strong case for ranking.
In the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll, Tarleton State has garnered a commendable total of 1,012 points, showcasing their growing recognition among a national panel of media members who contribute to the ranking. In this system, a first-place vote holds significant weight at 25 points, dropping down to just one point for those slots occupied further down the list. The AFCA Coaches Poll reflects a similar recognition, with the Texans accumulating 493 points, tallied from a conference-based panel of coaches who actively participate in the rankings. Each coach ranks their Top-25, assigning a first-place vote a value of 25 points, with incremental decreases down the list to one point for the 25th.
These recent rankings signify the highest that Tarleton has achieved during its NCAA Division I era, marking a historic moment for the program.
With a stellar record of 7-1 overall and a perfect 4-0 in conference matchups, the Texans are enjoying their best start to a season since they began the 2019 campaign with an impressive 11-0 record. They have gained momentum by winning 11 of their last 12 games, a streak that stretches back to the previous season. Currently, they stand among a select group of eight teams boasting seven or more victories this year, holding the tied-fifth best winning percentage (.875) across the FCS.
Looking ahead, Tarleton State is set to face an advantageous schedule with three home games among their final four regular season contests. Their next matchup will be against Eastern Kentucky, where they will celebrate Military Appreciation Game on Saturday at 6 p.m. at Memorial Stadium. Tickets can be purchased at www.tareltonsports.com/tickets.
**Interview with Tarleton State Texans Head Coach**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Coach! First off, congratulations on your team’s impressive rise to No. 7 in the FCS national rankings. How does it feel to see your hard work pay off?
**Coach**: Thank you! It feels incredible. This team has put in so much effort over the past year, and to be recognized like this in both the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll and the AFCA Coaches Poll is a testament to their dedication and resilience.
**Editor**: You recently defeated Austin Peay, the defending UAC champions. What were the key factors that led to your victory in that game?
**Coach**: Our performance was a combination of solid preparation and teamwork. The players executed the game plan effectively, and our defense stepped up at crucial moments. It was a tough environment to play in, but our guys remained focused and determined throughout the game.
**Editor**: You’ve now gone over a year without a loss to a non-FBS program. How has that consistency contributed to your team’s confidence and overall performance?
**Coach**: The consistency we’ve shown gives our players a strong sense of belief in themselves and in each other. Winning breeds confidence, and it’s important for us to maintain that momentum as we move forward. Each victory builds a foundation that helps us approach every game with a winning mentality.
**Editor**: Looking ahead, what areas do you think your team needs to focus on as you maintain your ranking and prepare for the rest of the season?
**Coach**: We still have room for improvement, especially in maintaining our defensive intensity and executing on offense. We need to stay disciplined and continue working on the little things that make a big difference in tight games. Our goal is to keep climbing and play our best football as we head into the critical part of the season.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Coach. We wish you and the Texans continued success for the rest of the season!
**Coach**: Thank you! We appreciate the support and are excited about what lies ahead.
L moments, which made a huge difference. We also had a great showing from our special teams, and that gave us the edge we needed to secure that win on the road.
**Editor**: With a current record of 7-1 and a perfect 4-0 in conference matchups, what do you believe has been the biggest contributor to your team’s success this season?
**Coach**: The consistency in our play and mental toughness has been remarkable. The players have really bought into the system we are running, and our depth has allowed us to overcome injuries and challenges as they arise. This team is resilient, and that’s definitely been a key to our success.
**Editor**: Looking ahead, you have three home games in your final four regular-season matches, starting with Eastern Kentucky. How important are these home games for your team as you push toward playoff positioning?
**Coach**: Home games are huge for us. The support from our fans at Memorial Stadium provides an extra boost, and we aim to leverage that energy. It’s vital for our momentum as we head into the latter part of the season. Plus, the Military Appreciation Game adds a special significance which we’re excited about honoring.
**Editor**: what message do you have for your fans as the season continues to unfold?
**Coach**: I just want to thank our fans for their unwavering support. We appreciate everyone who comes out to cheer us on. Your energy fuels our players on the field. We’re committed to continuing this journey and giving you our best every game. Let’s keep this momentum going!
**Editor**: Thank you, Coach, and best of luck in the upcoming games!
**Coach**: Thank you! We appreciate your support!
