Pride of the Program: When The Cowboys Welcomed Top Sensation Into The World of Division I football And More

On a frigid February night in 2021, the Cowboys hosted Tarleton State for their entry into Division I football. With wind-chill temperatures plunging into the single digits, McNeese State scored two touchdowns in the last 2:46 of regulation to force overtime. The Cowboys triumphed in double overtime, winning 40-37 and thwarting the Texans’ debut at the FCS level. This game marked Frank Wilson’s first as head coach of McNeese, and he celebrated their victory when one of the team buses skidded off the icy road and ended up in a ditch while leaving Stephenville, Texas.

Since that game, Cowboy football has been on a downward trend. Meanwhile, the Texans have gained national recognition, having defeated McNeese 52-34 in last year’s season opener in Lake Charles. Now, they are ranked No. 21 in the preseason FCS Coaches poll, while the Cowboys aim to improve their own fortunes. The Texans, entering their first full FCS season after moving up from D-II and fresh off an 8-3 record, are considered a team to watch. They will kick off their unusual 12-game season under very different conditions this Saturday back in Texas.

“They’ve got a strong football program and have made a smooth transition,” said McNeese head coach Gary Goff. “They have high expectations, are nationally ranked, and we’re excited for the challenge.” The Texans, picked to finish second in the United Athletic Conference, are showing promise in Stephenville, bolstered by an offense that averaged 33.3 points per game last season and returns 10 starters.

With two 1,000-yard rushers and a solid offensive line, Tarleton possesses scoring capability against anyone. Kayvon Britten leads the backfield with 1,150 yards and 16 touchdowns, while Derrel Kelley, a backup, totaled 541 yards and four scores last year. All five starters return on the offensive line, along with key receivers, including Darius Cooper, who had 622 yards on 28 receptions with five touchdowns in seven games. Both Britten and Cooper were named to preseason All-American teams.

Quarterback Victor Gabalis returns after stints at Washington State and Utah Tech, having completed last season with 2,492 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions on 164 of 301 passing attempts. “They will be balanced,” Goff remarked. “They have a high-powered offense that scored plenty last year and are dynamic at receiver. It will be a great test for our defense, but I believe we’ve made significant improvements there.”

The Texans’ defense does have some gaps to address, having been prone to giving up large scores, which they will need to tighten up as they strive to take the next step. Saturday will provide McNeese and the nation a glimpse into what kind of team Tarleton has become.