As the second round of the FCS Playoffs approaches, the Tarleton State Texans will face the University of North Dakota (UND) at noon on Saturday in Stephenville, Texas. Here are eight essential facts about Tarleton State University that highlight their football program and achievements.
1. Unique Offense: Slow-Mesh RPO
Tarleton State employs an innovative offensive strategy known as the slow-mesh run-pass option (RPO). This approach allows for a distinctive flow where the quarterback closely integrates with the running back, creating opportunities to stretch the defense. The slow-mesh RPO fosters unpredictability, making it a core aspect of the Texans’ identity.
2. Defensive Strength
The Texans stand out defensively, leading the FCS with 36 takeaways this season. This impressive statistic marks the highest number of takeaways for an FCS team since Alcorn State achieved the same in 2019. Tarleton State’s turnover margin averages 2.42, nearly double that of the second-best team in the division. The team’s defensive stats include:
- 8th in pass defense
- 12th in scoring defense
- 23rd in total defense
3. Accomplished Quarterback: Victor Gabalis
Quarterback Victor Gabalis is a seasoned player, currently in his sixth season of college football. His career includes stints at Washington State and Utah Tech before landing at Tarleton State. This season, he has completed 160 passes for 2,395 yards, achieving 25 touchdowns and merely four interceptions. Gabalis is a finalist for the Walter Payton Award and has impressive all-time stats, including:
- 9,917 passing yards
- 85 passing touchdowns
- 29-9 record as a starter
4. Versatile Running Back Core
Tarleton State showcases a strong running back lineup, including Tylan Hines, who recently returned from injury. He rushed for 215 yards in a game against Austin Peay. Redshirt freshman Tre Page III also stands out, having led the team with 839 yards during the regular season. Other contributing backs include:
- Caleb Lewis: 443 yards and 9 touchdowns
- James Paige: 520 yards and 8 touchdowns
5. High-Impact Wide Receivers
The Texans’ receiving corps is highlighted by three players who transferred from FBS programs. The top wide receivers include:
- Peyton Kramer (5’11”, Senior from Oklahoma State) averaging 69.75 yards per game
- Cody Jackson (6’0″, Junior from Houston) averaging 62.92 yards per game
- Trevon West (6’0″, Senior from Oklahoma) averaging 63.0 yards per game
6. Transition to Division I
Tarleton State transitioned from NCAA Division II to Division I, joining the WAC in July 2020. The program has a rich history and was known as the Plowboys and Tex-Anns in earlier decades. This change signifies a new era for the school and its athletics.
7. Strong Home Crowd Expectations
Tarleton State can anticipate significant attendance as they host UND in the playoffs. Their Memorial Stadium has a capacity of 24,000. A recent game against Austin Peay drew 18,488 fans, a commendable turnout considering the town’s population of around 20,847.
8. Coach Recognition
Head coach Todd Whitten has made his mark at Tarleton State, recently finishing fifth for the Eddie Robinson Award, recognizing the top coach in the FCS. His record of 125 wins over 16 seasons signifies a successful tenure. Under his leadership, this year marks the seventh time the Texans have achieved double-digit wins in their program’s history.
With a unique offense, strong defense, and accomplished players, Tarleton State is set to make a significant impact in the upcoming FCS Playoffs.
