United Athletic Conference

[DFW HOYA]

Now official.

https://goutrgv.com/news/2023/4/17/asun-wac-football-partnership-formally-rebrands-as-the-united-athletic-conference.aspx

[atthewbon]

Not the most clever name...

I'm glad it's official and is its own independent conference. It sucks this year is still only a 6 game conference schedule, glad they are going to 8 in the future.

[Tuna85]

North Alabama's entry into FCS football has sure been an adventure. I, for one, am looking forward to what I hope will be some conference stability and the development of some great rivalries. Looking forward to the future 8-9 game conference schedule in the future (seems to be the sweet spot).

[EKU05]

Let's roll! I'm excited about this group of schools.

[ElCid]

The travel aspect is not ideal. Fairly spaced out. Hard to build good rivalries when only a handful of visiting fans show up. How many fans from Utah are going to make the trip to Alabama or Kentucky? Or visa versa? Almost seems like it is a temp fix. It's likely there will be just good showings for the regional team matchups. The Utah games, the TX games and the KY, Tenn, AR games. I guess it's not much worse than the Big Sky.

[EKU05]

I will add...I wonder if they chose "athletic" just because this conference would never be anyone's first thought if they heard the initials "UFC." Or...is it hinting, as some of us have speculated, that there is at least a possibility it becomes an all-sports conference at some undetermined point down the line.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ft7moRhWIAMX26o?format=jpg&name=medium

[UNAPride]

I will add...I wonder if they chose "athletic" just because this conference would never be anyone's first thought if they heard the initials "UFC." Or...is it hinting, as some of us has speculated, that there is at last a possibility it becomes an al-sports conference at some undetermined point down the line.

I wondered the same. Probably to avoid "UFC" but ya never know...

[UNAPride]

The NCAA has denied the United Athletic Conference’s (WAC + ASUN) waiver request to be recognized as a single-sport FCS conference, The Athletic’s Vannini reports, noting the denial was not unexpected and the group will move forward with the UAC name and branding. The NCAA’s moratorium on adding single-sport conferences is set to expire on June 1, and Vannini notes it’s “possible the Board of Directors denied the UAC waiver simply because such a move will be allowed again in a few months. If the moratorium does extend, the UAC expects to continue to get its annual playoff waiver for the WAC-ASUN partnership.”

https://theathletic.com/4460388/2023/04/27/united-athletic-conference-ncaa-waiver-request-denied/

[bonarae]

If the waiver falls through, what will happen to the conference champion's playoff hopes? Or will they become independents again? xchinscratchx

[MR. CHICKEN]

.......TOO MUCH PURPLE!......................BRAWK!

[100%GRIZ]

The travel aspect is not ideal. Fairly spaced out. Hard to build good rivalries when only a handful of visiting fans show up. How many fans from Utah are going to make the trip to Alabama or Kentucky? Or visa versa? Almost seems like it is a temp fix. It's likely there will be just good showings for the regional team matchups. The Utah games, the TX games and the KY, Tenn, AR games. I guess it's not much worse than the Big Sky.
Well the Big Sky is definitely spaced out as well so it is possible!

[MR. CHICKEN]

........CAA...RUNS...MAINE...TA....NORFF CAROLINA...............BRAWK!

[Sitting Bull]

........CAA...RUNS...MAINE...TA....NORFF CAROLINA...............BRAWK!

Most states in the CAA are the size of counties in states west of the Mississippi.

[UNAPride]

If the waiver falls through, what will happen to the conference champion's playoff hopes? Or will they become independents again? xchinscratchx

Two more seasons of the waiver, and by then the WAC will have enough to get their AQ back (if they don't have anyone leave). Technically, this current alliance AQ is via a waiver for the ASUN with the WAC schools as affiliates. I assume it could flip-flop in two seasons, if needed.

[Utgrizfan]

Probably an unpopular opinion and I know there is a snowballs chance in hell this would ever happen but my thoughts on the matter. The Big Sky I already feel is a bit bloated so moving some teams to the WAC would be healthy for both Conferences:

-UC-Davis, Cal Poly and Northern Colorado. I have nothing against these schools it's more circumstances why I've picked them. Cal Poly and UC-Davis are Football only schools and Northern Colorado has struggled since moving up, a change of scenery may help them.

-Would create the following 2 Conferences:

BIG SKY: Montana, MSU, Idaho, ISU, Weber, SAC, Portland State, EWU, NAU

STATES: (MT, ID, WA, UT, OR, CA, AZ)

WAC: Cal Poly, UC-Davis, UNC, SUU, UT-Tech, Abeline Christian, Tarleton State, UTRGV, Stephen F Austin

STATES: (CA, UT, CO, TX)

Would create two 9 team Conferences which overall fit well geographically (by Western USA standards) and ensures 8 Conference games every season. Could schedule a "Big Sky vs WAC" series every year to ensure everyone only has D1 games on their schedule for the Playoffs (outside of FBS games) and to ensure rivalries between teams of both Conferences continue.

[UNAPride]

Probably an unpopular opinion and I know there is a snowballs chance in hell this would ever happen but my thoughts on the matter. The Big Sky I already feel is a bit bloated so moving some teams to the WAC would be healthy for both Conferences:

-UC-Davis, Cal Poly and Northern Colorado. I have nothing against these schools it's more circumstances why I've picked them. Cal Poly and UC-Davis are Football only schools and Northern Colorado has struggled since moving up, a change of scenery may help them.

-Would create the following 2 Conferences:

BIG SKY: Montana, MSU, Idaho, ISU, Weber, SAC, Portland State, EWU, NAU

STATES: (MT, ID, WA, UT, OR, CA, AZ)

WAC: Cal Poly, UC-Davis, UNC, SUU, UT-Tech, Abeline Christian, Tarleton State, UTRGV, Stephen F Austin

STATES: (CA, UT, CO, TX)

Would create two 9 team Conferences which overall fit well geographically (by Western USA standards) and ensures 8 Conference games every season. Could schedule a "Big Sky vs WAC" series every year to ensure everyone only has D1 games on their schedule for the Playoffs (outside of FBS games) and to ensure rivalries between teams of both Conferences continue.


Earlier this spring, a little birdie told me that Northern Colorado and Northern Arizona were/are interested in UAC football. Who knows where that actually stands but it would be interesting to see them both head to the WAC.

[SDFS]

Probably an unpopular opinion and I know there is a snowballs chance in hell this would ever happen but my thoughts on the matter. The Big Sky I already feel is a bit bloated so moving some teams to the WAC would be healthy for both Conferences:

-UC-Davis, Cal Poly and Northern Colorado. I have nothing against these schools it's more circumstances why I've picked them. Cal Poly and UC-Davis are Football only schools and Northern Colorado has struggled since moving up, a change of scenery may help them.

-Would create the following 2 Conferences:

BIG SKY (10) : Montana, MSU, Idaho, ISU, Weber, SAC, Cal Poly, UC-Davis, Portland State, EWU

STATES: (MT, ID, WA, UT, OR, CA)

WAC (8): NAU, UNC, SUU, UT-Tech, Abeline Christian, Tarleton State, UTRGV, Stephen F Austin

STATES: (AZ, UT, CO, TX)

Would create two 9 team Conferences which overall fit well geographically (by Western USA standards) and ensures 8 Conference games every season. Could schedule a "Big Sky vs WAC" series every year to ensure everyone only has D1 games on their schedule for the Playoffs (outside of FBS games) and to ensure rivalries between teams of both Conferences continue.

Moved Cal Poly and Davis back to Big Sky and moved NAU to WAC.

[SFA 93]

The UAC is looking to possibly add Division II powerhouses (West Florida and Valdosta State) for a 12 team conference

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fv8KgCtWwAQtOJp?format=jpg&name=medium

[Keeper]

Re expansion rumor: Matt Brown has fact checked this as FALSE. would like to know both sources. But it does seem logical.

[UNAPride]

Since I live in Pensacola, I would love for West Florida to join the ASUN! Even if a rumor, it helps put a spark to UWF going D1 someday.

Heck, I recall when they didn't have football less than a decade ago. Now, they have a D2 natty, a runner-up finish, and was in the semi-final last season. UWF has a very solid athletics program.

[EKU05]

I believe Matt Brown on this, but if it was hypothetically true...are we talking ASUN membership for both? A standalone rumor that they are joining the UAC would be an incomplete story at best.

[BigGreenTruck]

Let's roll! I'm excited about this group of schools.

Seriously what are you excited about. Six of the ten schools that being Stephen F Austin, UTRVG, Tarleton State, Abilene Christian, Southern Utah and Utah Tech are to far away to become legitimate rivals. My guess is this alignment lasts about as long as the A10 sponsored football (1997-2006). If and when a few schools out west (3-4) decide to leave the Big Sky and join the western schools, I think those schools will break off again at where SFA is.

The FBS dream of the WAC/ASUN/UCA was never going to happen. Even if the NCAA had approved it the IA conferences would have never agreed to give them CFP money.

If what happens in my first statement, what happens to the four remaining schools? Do they ask the OVC for entry, have Austin Peay and EKU burned that bridge?

[ST_Lawson]

If what happens in my first statement, what happens to the four remaining schools? Do they ask the OVC for entry, have Austin Peay and EKU burned that bridge?

I have no idea of the internal politics of the OVC, but personally (and as a "transitional" OVC fan), I'd be ecstatic if the remaining four wanted to join (back) up with the OVC.

Are there still rumors that EKU might get interest from one of the lower FBS conferences? Rumors of a big shakeup all across FBS could make it a lot more likely. Depending on how that all shakes out, CUSA or the Sun Belt might need to backfill (if they have more members poached from the higher leagues). CUSA makes a bit more sense, but WKU may not allow it. They're also right on the northern side of the Sun Belt footprint.

Even if EKU steps up to FBS, I would think the OVC would be happy to have a few more football teams in the conference so they can step back from the Big South football partnership. Austin Peay is right in the middle of the conference footprint (and obviously has history there), North Alabama is just down the road from Nashville...would add a little more travel for us, but still not bad (especially compared to the Summit for the "olympic" sports).

Central Arkansas would be similar in that it would add a little travel to the further out schools (like us and Morehead State), however...they are literally 35 minutes up the road from Arkansas-Little Rock, a non-football member of the OVC, so they would be perfect for being a travel partner with the non-football sports. Fly or drive down to Little Rock, do a game/match there, stay a day or two, then head up the road to Conway for another, before heading home.

They pick up APU, UNA, and UCA, then the OVC is at 10 football playing members and doesn't have to do the Big South football partnership anymore. If they do the schedule like the MVFC has been doing the last decade or so, 10 teams means you skip 1 conference member every pair of years, but play everyone else. 8 conference games, 3 OOC games (or 4 if in a 12-game season), and we're all set.

For basketball, they're at 14 teams. Pair up travel partners of UALR and UCA, Lindenwood and SIU-E, WIU and EIU, SEMO and UT-Martin, TN Tech and Austin Peay, TN State and UNA, and Morehead State and Southern Indiana.

Whateer happens, I do agree with you that it doesn't feel like the UAC has the makings of a solid long-term conference.

[UNAPride]

I'm excited about this conference, at least for a few years. All are on pretty equal footing as far as budget and the travel is no worse than CUSA. I like that it's football-only. The ASUN and WAC are much better fits for all other sports.

I'd "never say never," but pretty sure the bridges between APSU, EKU, and even UNA are burned with the OVC. UNA's may have started to mend over the past decade after being snubbed by them. I wouldn't think APSU or EKU would even consider the notion. EKU and the OVC are still in court, each with a suit against each other over the exit fee, I believe.

If the UAC breaks up soon, then I'd hope the ASUN pulls from the GSC (UWF, VSU, and possibly UWG) to get over the six teams needed for the AQ. Those three would fill out the ASUN map nicely.

[mvfcfan]

Austin Peay left the OVC on good terms. They would be welcomed back. North Alabama would probably be accepted now that they are D1. Snubbing them was always dumb.

[KPSUL]

So the UAC has two teams known as the ACU and the UCA. Could be very confusing if ACU plays UCA for the UAC title.

[FUBeAR]

So the UAC has two teams known as the ACU and the UCA. Could be very confusing if ACU plays UCA for the UAC title.
That game will, of course, be played in Yucca, CA or beside the Utica (Reservoir), CA

[UNAPride]

So the UAC has two teams known as the ACU and the UCA. Could be very confusing if ACU plays UCA for the UAC title.

Not as confusing as Jacksonville (FL) playing Jacksonville State (AL) in the ASUN. Glad that's about to end.

[aceinthehole]

Glad we have ended the St. Francis (NY) vs. St. Francis (PA) games in the Northeast Conference!

[KPSUL]

Glad we have ended the St. Francis (NY) vs. St. Francis (PA) games in the Northeast Conference!

We (the CAA) just have Wildcats vs Wildcats when UNH and Villanova play. But with 15 teams, maybe there are now others.

[EKU05]

In the ASUN we have a battle between distinguished old white guy mascots (EKU vs. Austin Peay).

In the OVC they have the Redhawks vs. Skyhawks (SEMO vs. UTM) and the Eagles vs. Golden Eagles (Morehead vs. Tennessee Tech...though not in football).

The SEC had three Tigers and two Bulldogs.

But here's my favorite. In the same county that EKU is located is tiny, but prestigious, Berea College who plays in the D3 Collegiate Conference of the South. That conference has only nine total members, but two of them are the "Scots" and another is the "Scotties." Berea is not among them, they go by the "Mountaineers."

But similar mascots isn't quite as confusing as when the school names themselves are the same or similar.

[Daytripper]

So the UAC has two teams known as the ACU and the UCA. Could be very confusing if ACU plays UCA for the UAC title.

The Anagram Bowl!

[UNAPride]

UNA has (finally!!) announced a new stadium project! They say it could open by 2026 and the plan is for a multi-purpose facility hosting football, baseball, and soccer.

Not a lot of details yet. But, exciting!!

Press Release: https://roarlions.com/news/2023/6/9/general-una-board-of-trustees-approves-on-campus-stadium-project-design-planning-for-bank-independent-stadium-to-begin-soon.aspx

Limited details: https://www.una.edu/bistadium/index.html

https://roarlions.com/images/2023/6/9/BI_Stadium_Entry_-_USE_THIS.png?width=1884&quality=80&format=jpg


Timeline:

https://www.una.edu/bistadium/images/una-safety-project-timeline.jpg

[NY Crusader 2010]

Perhaps we'll see a NAU versus UNA playoff game in near future?

[caribbeanhen]

UNA has (finally!!) announced a new stadium project! They say it could open by 2026 and the plan is for a multi-purpose facility hosting football, baseball, and soccer.

Not a lot of details yet. But, exciting!!

Press Release: https://roarlions.com/news/2023/6/9/general-una-board-of-trustees-approves-on-campus-stadium-project-design-planning-for-bank-independent-stadium-to-begin-soon.aspx

Limited details: https://www.una.edu/bistadium/index.html

https://roarlions.com/images/2023/6/9/BI_Stadium_Entry_-_USE_THIS.png?width=1884&quality=80&format=jpg


Timeline:

https://www.una.edu/bistadium/images/una-safety-project-timeline.jpg

and I always guessed Muscle Shoals was down by Dauphin Island or Gulf Shores

[DFW HOYA]

An on campus stadium named "in perpetuity"? The two most dangerous words in sports contracts.

http://20secondtimeout.blogspot.com/2016/10/in-perpetuity-story-of-silna-brothers.html

[UNAPride]

An on campus stadium named "in perpetuity"? The two most dangerous words in sports contracts.

http://20secondtimeout.blogspot.com/2016/10/in-perpetuity-story-of-silna-brothers.html

Unless it's the local bank likely handling the financing, a key component of this for UNA.

[UNAPride]

and I always guessed Muscle Shoals was down by Dauphin Island or Gulf Shores

Nope. I live down here in Pensacola closer to those places. Florence (my hometown and where UNA is located) and Muscle Shoals sit on opposite sides of the Tennessee River in NW Alabama about 350 miles north of the Gulf Coast.

[caribbeanhen]

Nope. I live down here in Pensacola closer to those places. Florence (my hometown and where UNA is located) and Muscle Shoals sit on opposite sides of the Tennessee River in NW Alabama about 350 miles north of the Gulf Coast.

Yes I just learned that, I pulled up a map to see where Northern Alabama was (the college:) and saw Muscle Shoals

[UNAPride]

The new logo is visible on ESPN+ before tomorrow's media day.

https://s.secure.espncdn.com/stitcher/artwork/collections/airings/e63d701f-53d8-4606-8dc1-fdff880bea78/16x9.jpg?timestamp=202307131254&showBadge=true&cb=12&package=ESPN_PLUS

All 10 teams (including UTRGV) will be represented by coaches and select players at the inaugural event.

It will be on ESPN+ HERE (https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/e63d701f-53d8-4606-8dc1-fdff880bea78/redirected/tr).

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F1ANvLTWcAEhNyg?format=jpg&name=medium

[caribbeanhen]

🤢

[Laker]

濫

When I look at it this song comes to mind:
United Airlines in-flight movie intro - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHFb5OlEt4Q)

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F1AQqLZWIAA5MD6?format=jpg&name=large
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F1Az-rDXoAAPgld?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

So did the UAC put out a preseason poll, preseason team, or just new logos?

[FUBeAR]

When I look at it this song comes to mind:
United Airlines in-flight movie intro - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHFb5OlEt4Q)
Like the logo, but United Airlines was also definitely evoked in FUBeAR’s little brain.

[SFA 93]

So did the UAC put out a preseason poll, preseason team, or just new logos?

"According to @CraigHaley (https://twitter.com/CraigHaley), the ASUN and WAC partnership will not release a preseason poll and team until early August in the buildup to its inaugural UAC campaign"

[UNAPride]

I like the logo a lot.

[SFA 93]

Me too, a nice All-American feel to it.

[McCowboys]

"According to @CraigHaley (https://twitter.com/CraigHaley), the ASUN and WAC partnership will not release a preseason poll and team until early August in the buildup to its inaugural UAC campaign"

So a conference that is not even recognized by the NCAA holds a media day to reveal a logo? I see. LOL!

[Puddin Tane]

The purple team conference has no purple in the logo?

[bonarae]

Not sure if this was discussed here, but the new conference has NO plans for moving up...

https://i.postimg.cc/63ngPKkc/359457601-10161451796780087-8170221744882789863-n.jpg

[EKU05]

Not sure if this was discussed here, but the new conference has NO plans for moving up...

https://i.postimg.cc/63ngPKkc/359457601-10161451796780087-8170221744882789863-n.jpg

This has been the central party line the whole time. This is a non-statement. It may never happen, but this statement doesn't change anything. It'll happen if the opportunity really is there, and it won't if it's not.

[SFA 93]

We have a webpage

https://uacfootball.com/

[FUBeAR]

We have a webpage

https://uacfootball.com/
Cool - BTW … read an article posted there from 4/17/23 and noticed this little passage…

“The group will recognize its own league champion and at-large FCS playoffs automatic qualifier under a singular conference banner beginning with the 2023 football season.”

…Champion AND at-large FCS playoffs automatic qualifier?

Unless FUBeAR is mistaken…

…“Automatic qualifiers” are not “at-large.” They are the representatives of their conference as that Conference’s Champion. Their determination as Champion is determined by the Conference. “At large” Teams are not determined by, nor representing, per se, their conferences. They are independently selected by the FCS Playoff Committee.

So has the UAC been granted 1 Playoff slot for its Conference Champion / Automatic Qualifier AND another Automatic Qualifier Playoff slot for a - at least one - At Large Team, perhaps at its choosing…or nah.

[SFA 93]

Getting close

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F2ZoCVJXYAAcl5Y?format=webp&name=medium

[SFA 93]

EKU QB Parker McKinney (2022 Finalist) UCA RB ShunDerrick Powell (2022 Finalist) and SUU QB Justin Miller named to Walter Payton Watch List

https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/8/2/football-uac-duo-named-to-payton-award-watch-list.aspx (https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/8/2/football-uac-duo-named-to-payton-award-watch-list.aspx)

[SFA 93]

SFA returns a lot of starters from 2022,

SR:18
JR:23

8 on offense and 8 on defense

but with the graduation of QB Tre Self, SFA looking to fill the most important role.

QB: #2 PRESTON WEEKS 6-3; 222 (SR.) transfer from Baylor
G:16;ATT:84;CMP:53;CP%:62;YDS:724;TD:5;INT:2


QB: #7 BRIAN MAURER 6-5; 215 (JR.) transfer from Tennessee
G:19;ATT:104;CMP:49;CP%:47;YDS:701;TD:4;INT:6/R:40;YDS:145;TD:2


QB: #12 DALTON MCELYEA 6-3; 196 (SO.)
G:1;ATT:0;CMP:0;CP%:0;YDS:0;TD:0;INT:0/R:1;YDS:18;TD:1

New Recruits...
QB: #15 BROCK BOLFING 6-3; 215 (SO.) transfer from Blinn Jr. College
QB: #13 GAVIN RUTHERFORD 6-3; 210 (FR.) Katy, Texas (Cinco Ranch)

[Keeper]

Not to quibble, 93, I'm sure you know your team better than I.
But I am only seeing 5 returning starters either side of the ball, who started 8 games or more.
Offense basically the only returning starters are 4 O-Linemen and the TE.
Defense has 3 Linemen and 2 defensive backs. One linebacker had 3 starts.
Not counting new transfers of course. Do you have better info?

[SFA 93]

Many players regardless of starter status saw significant playing time on the 1st team, so I consider them starters as they return with great experience, even though they may not have had the official starter label on the program, which many times did not coincide with who actually started.

The SFA website is notorious for inaccuracies.

For example they have Jeremiah Miller listed as a starting linebacker, and he was a wide receiver, the offensive lineman that you are referring to Terrin Robinson, was listed as a starter in some games where he was not even on the sidelines.

Basically for the 2023 season, all the positions are set, with the unknowns being on offense at QB and 2 WRs and an interior lineman, and 2 linebackers for the defense.

Everyone else has seen just as much playing time on the field as the official starter, and some even have better stats, one (the offensive lineman Porterfield) even earned all conference honors as he started some games over Robinson.

[Keeper]

this is why the local guys know best.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F3WyEaAW0AIqrek?format=jpg&name=large

[SFA 93]

OK, it's finally out...

2023 PRESEASON UAC COACHES POLL

1. Eastern Kentucky (2 first-place votes) -- 71 points
2. Central Arkansas (5 first-place votes) -- 69 points
3. Austin Peay (1 first-place vote) -- 57 points
4. Stephen F. Austin -- 54 points
5. Abilene Christian -- 52 points
6. Tarleton State -- 37 points
T7. Utah Tech (1 first-place vote) -- 25 points
T7. Southern Utah -- 25 points
9. North Alabama -- 15 points

[caribbeanhen]

OK, it's finally out...

2023 PRESEASON UAC COACHES POLL

1. Eastern Kentucky (2 first-place votes) -- 71 points
2. Central Arkansas (5 first-place votes) -- 69 points
3. Austin Peay (1 first-place vote) -- 57 points
4. Stephen F. Austin -- 54 points
5. Abilene Christian -- 52 points
6. Tarleton State -- 37 points
T7. Utah Tech (1 first-place vote) -- 25 points
T7. Southern Utah -- 25 points
9. North Alabama -- 15 points

looks like darts were flying all over the place … C Arky gets 5 first place votes but second in poll …

[SFA 93]

2023 UAC FOOTBALL PRESEASON ALL-CONFERENCE
Preseason Offensive Player of the Year: Parker McKinney (EKU)
Preseason Defensive Player of the Year: Syrus Webster (Utah Tech)

OFFENSE
QB - Parker McKinney (EKU)*
RB - Darius Hale (Central Arkansas)
RB - ShunDerrick Powell (Central Arkansas)
RB - Derrel Kelley III (Tarleton State)
WR - Takairee Kenebrew (North Alabama)
WR - Darius Cooper (Tarleton State)
WR - Rickie Johnson (Utah Tech)
TE - Noah Caldwell (Abilene Christian)
TE - Jordon Goco (Austin Peay)
TE - Chad Aune (Stephen F. Austin)
OL - Reese Moore (Abilene Christian)
OL - Chandler Kirton (Austin Peay)
OL - Payton Collins (EKU)
OL - Josiah Ezirim (EKU)
OL - Keegan Holm (Stephen F. Austin)
C - Lyle Santos (Southern Utah)

DEFENSE
DL - David Walker (Central Arkansas)
DL - Logan Jessup (Central Arkansas)
DL - Ryan Jackson (EKU)
DL - Syrus Webster (Utah Tech)
LB - Tyler Long (Austin Peay)
LB - Qua'Shawn Washington (Tarleton State)
LB - Will Leota (Utah Tech)
DB - Kory Chapman (Austin Peay)
DB - TaMuarion Wilson (Central Arkansas)
DB - Franky West, Jr. (EKU)
DB - Jeremiah Walker (Stephen F. Austin)

SPECIAL TEAMS
K - Chris Campos (Stephen F. Austin)
P - Chandler Caughron (Central Arkansas)
RS - Jarrod Barnes (Central Arkansas)
LS - Dustin Inness (Abilene Christian)

* - Denotes unanimous selection

[SFA 93]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57473_zusi0

Week 1

Sat. 8-26
2:30 P.M. - North Alabama@#22 Mercer (ESPN)

Thurs. 8-31
7:00 P.M. - Northern Colorado@(RV)Abilene Christian (ESPN+)
9:00 P.M. - Southern Utah@Arizona State

Sat. 9-02
2:30 P.M. - (RV)Eastern Kentucky@Cincinnati (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) Central Arkansas@Oklahoma State (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - Stephen F. Austin State@(RV)Troy (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV)Austin Peay@(RV)Southern Illinois (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV)Chattanooga@North Alabama (ESPN+)
7:00 P.M. - Tarleton State@McNeese (ESPN+)
7:00 P.M. - Utah Tech@#3 Montana State (ESPN+)


https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/43/United_Athletic_Conference.png

[SFA 93]

4 Under-The Radar FCS Teams Entering 2023

https://herosports.com/fcs-football-2023-under-the-radar-teams-bzbz/

[FUBeAR]

Just curious - not a single post from UAC peeps (that FUBeAR saw) about your fellow Conference-mate North Alabama’s game last Saturday. Y’all just don’t accept them yet or what?

FUBeAR thought they looked solid - disciplined & well-coached overall. The secondary is big, fast, and talented. They’re not quite as stout up front on D, but not bad. LB’s seemed to need more reps in their new D to get things buttoned up, but they could be a pretty darn good D before it’s all said and done. The O is a bit more of a work in progress. OL can be pretty good and they had a couple of skill guys with talent. Just didn’t seem to know who they wanna be yet. FUBeAR would build around the explosiveness of their FIU transfer QB and thinks he could find a way to score some points with that guy taking the snaps. Kicking game needs work, obviously. FUBeAR could see the Lions going anywhere from 3-8 to 7-4. Massey has ‘em 1-10 again. Don’t see that.

What y’all think?

[SFA 93]

We have a North Alabama fan on here, but have not seen him in awhile.

Yes, I agree, the Lions are on the up and up and are building something special in Florence.

They have a nice new football stadium going up as well.

[wapiti]

Is Arizona State bad or is Southern Utah pretty good? or a bit of both?
SUU 21 ASU 24

[SFA 93]

SUU was 5-6 last season and lost to EKU 28-35; Tarleton State 40-42; Abilene Christian 18-21; #20 SFA 38-41; Utah Tech 36-48

But they did beat Sam Houston State in Huntsville in the last game of 2022.

They did return their QB Justin Miller who passed for almost 3,000 yards and 20 TD's and top receiver Isaiah Wooden

A good team that can't close out games.

[SFA 93]

UAC Conference Scores

TARLETON STATE:52
MCNEESE:34
FINAL

(RV) ABILENE CHRISTIAN:31
NORTHERN COLORADO:11
FINAL

NORTH ALABAMA:41
(RV) CHATTANOOGA:27
FINAL

SOUTHERN UTAH:21
ARIZONA STATE:24
FINAL

(RV) CENTRAL ARKANSAS:13
OKLAHOMA STATE:27
FINAL

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE:30
(RV) TROY:48
FINAL

(RV) AUSTIN PEAY:23
(RV) SOUTHERN ILLINOIS:49
FINAL

(RV) EASTERN KENTUCKY:13
CINCINNATI:66
FINAL

UTAH TECH:20
#3 MONTANA STATE:63
FINAL

[SFA 93]

WEEK TWO (9/9/2023)

The UAC takes on the SEC with Kentucky and #9 Tennessee, the game of the week North Alabama is headed to Stephenville to take on the Texans of Tarleton State.

Also, Central Arkansas bringing the Steers of Texas College (NAIA) home for the slaughter.

2:00 P.M. - Southern Utah @BYU (ESPN+)
2:00 P.M. - (RV) Eastern Kentucky @Kentucky (ESPN+)
4:00 P.M. - Utah Tech @#13 Montana (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) Abilene Christian @Prairie View A&M (no TV)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) Tarleton State vs. North Alabama (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) Central Arkansas vs. Texas College (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) Stephen F. Austin vs. Alcorn State (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - Austin Peay @#9 Tennessee (ESPN+)



https://uacfootball.com/images/2023/7/26/UAC_ESPN_ad.png

[FUBeAR]

GO LIONS!! BEAT TARLETON!!!”

FUBeAR is a BIG UNA fan this season!!!

[SFA 93]

https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/9/8/football-uac-welcomes-west-georgia-as-its-11th-member.aspx

https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/9/8/football-uac-welcomes-west-georgia-as-its-11th-member.aspx
https://uwgathletics.com/images/2023/3/28/Schedule.jpg?width=1416&height=797&mode=crop&quality=80&format=jpg

ABILENE CHRISTIAN

AUSTIN PEAY

CENTRAL ARKANSAS

EASTERN KENTUCKY

NORTH ALABAMA

SOUTHERN UTAH

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE

TARLETON STATE

TEXAS - RIO GRANDE VALLEY

UTAH TECH

WEST GEORGIA
https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/9/8/football-uac-welcomes-west-georgia-as-its-11th-member.aspx

[SFA 93]

This conference is just stacked from top to bottom and the defenses are all really fast causing havoc in the back field, and it will be a top FCS conference.

We got a Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, soon a Georgia and maybe a Florida school, it will be SEC light. :)

Austin Peay:13
#9 Tennessee:30

- Austin Peay lead in the 1st half and it was just 13-6 at halftime

Eastern Kentucky:17
Kentucky:28

- EKU lead in the 1st half and it was 7-7 at half time, EKU then took the lead back in the 2nd half 10-7 and Kentucky never lead in the game until at the 9:41 mark in the 3rd.
The score was 21-17 UK near the end of the 3rd.

Southern Utah:16
BYU:41

- Last week Southern Utah gave Arizona State all they could handle and this week, with the exception of the 2nd quarter hung with BYU. It was 6-3 BYU in the 2nd quarter. SUU scored 13 points in the second half while holding BYU to 14.

Abilene Christian:45
Prairie View A&M:16

- ACU dominated on the road.

North Alabama:31
Tarleton State:52

- The Lions lead 28-17 at halftime before the Texans went off. North Alabama had defeated a good Chattanooga team last week.

[McCowboys]

This conference is just stacked from top to bottom and the defenses are all really fast causing havoc in the back field, and it will be a top FCS conference.

We got a Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, soon a Georgia and maybe a Florida school, it will be SEC light. :)

Austin Peay:13
#9 Tennessee:30

- Austin Peay lead in the 1st half and it was just 13-6 at halftime

Eastern Kentucky:17
Kentucky:28

- EKU lead in the 1st half and it was 7-7 at half time, EKU then took the lead back in the 2nd half 10-7 and Kentucky never lead in the game until at the 9:41 mark in the 3rd.
The score was 21-17 UK near the end of the 3rd.

Southern Utah:16
BYU:41

- Last week Southern Utah gave Arizona State all they could handle and this week, with the exception of the 2nd quarter hung with BYU. It was 6-3 BYU in the 2nd quarter. SUU scored 13 points in the second half while holding BYU to 14.

Abilene Christian:45
Prairie View A&M:16

- ACU dominated on the road.

North Alabama:31
Tarleton State:52

- The Lions lead 28-17 at halftime before the Texans went off. North Alabama had defeated a good Chattanooga team last week.

Tarleton seems to be a second half team. They did the same thing to McNeese the previous week. McNeese led in the 3rd quarter before a Texan barrage.

[SFA 93]

Yes, I'm starting to notice a pattern with the Texans.

[SFA 93]

WEEK 3 (9/16/2023)

More big non-conference matchups for the UAC in Week 3.

Top UAC teams battle the SLC, Big XII, Big Sky, and the MVFC

2:30 P.M. - (RV) CENTRAL ARKANSAS @#2 NORTH DAKOTA STATE (ESPN+)
3:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH @NORTHERN ARIZONA (ESPN+)
5:00 P.M. - (RV) EASTERN KENTUCKY VS. (RV) WESTERN CAROLINA (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) TARLETON STATE @TEXAS TECH (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE @NORTHWESTERN STATE (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - NORTH ALABAMA @TENNESSEE TECH (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) AUSTIN PEAY VS. EAST TENNESSEE STATE (ESPN+)
7:00 P.M. - (RV) ABILENE CHRISTIAN VS. #9 UIW (ESPN+)
9:00 P.M. - SOUTHERN UTAH @#16 UC DAVIS (ESPN+)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F6HZC15XcAAQ7nX?format=jpg&name=4096x4096


https://uacfootball.com/images/2023/7/26/UAC_ESPN_ad.png

[SFA 93]

Week 3; 4-5

L (RV) CENTRAL ARKANSAS @#2 NORTH DAKOTA STATE 31-49
W UTAH TECH @NORTHERN ARIZONA 50-36
L (RV) EASTERN KENTUCKY VS. (RV) WESTERN CAROLINA 24-27
L (RV) TARLETON STATE @TEXAS TECH 3-41
W (RV) STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE @NORTHWESTERN STATE 41-3
W NORTH ALABAMA @TENNESSEE TECH 20-7
W (RV) AUSTIN PEAY VS. EAST TENNESSEE STATE 63-3
L (RV) ABILENE CHRISTIAN VS. #9 UIW 20-27
L SOUTHERN UTAH @#16 UC DAVIS 21-23

[SFA 93]

Week 4

2:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH @MISSOURI STATE (ESPN+)
5:00 P.M. - EASTERN KENTUCKY VS. #16 SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) AUSTIN PEAY @(RV) STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) CENTRAL ARKANSAS VS (RV) ABILENE CHRISTIAN (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - NORTH ALABAMA VS. (RV) UT MARTIN (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - (RV) TARLETON STATE VS. SOUTHWEST BAPTIST (ESPN+)
7:00 P.M. - SOUTHERN UTAH VS. WESTERN ILLINOIS (ESPN+)

[clenz]

A bit of a random question - Teams fly direct into St. George, correct?

[SFA 93]

https://www.flysgu.com/

[clenz]

Yeah. I know that exists. I didn't see anything larger than a CRJ landing/taking off from there as I looked at the departure arrival boards. I assume most, because I know UNI uses one and holy **** if we use one everyone else does to I'd bet, goes with 737s

A football travel party, plus equipment, etc. on a CRJ isn't an idea situation for anyone.

[SFA 93]

The closest international airport is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) (112.4 miles)

[clenz]

So....the answer is?

I'm more than capable of finding airports in the US. SGU doesn't even have an ATC tower. I'm wondering if teams fly in/out of SGU or the fly in to Vegas. I know when UNI has played at Southern Utah it has been in/out of Vegas with a bus.

[SFA 93]

WEEK 5


Saturday Sept. 30


1:00 P.M. - AUSTIN PEAY @LINDENWOOD (ESPN+)
3:00 P.M. - TARLETON STATE @SE LOUISIANA (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - ABILENE CHRISTIAN @NORTH TEXAS (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH @COLORADO STATE (NO TV)
6:00 P.M. - EASTERN KENTUCKY @NORTH ALABAMA (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - TEXAS A&M - COMMERCE @STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE (ESPN+)
7:00 P.M. - CENTRAL ARKANSAS @SOUTHERN UTAH (ESPN+)

A little SLC vs UAC this week.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile... has anyone noticed that UAC #3 in the FCS in terms of OOC game performance and/or statistical performance in the FCS?

[Tuna85]

Meanwhile... has anyone noticed that UAC #3 in the FCS in terms of OOC game performance and/or statistical performance in the FCS?
Keep going like this and the conference may find itself with an AQ and an at large come playoff time! Just looking at the play and the teams represented, UAC is pretty strong.

[clenz]

Meanwhile... has anyone noticed that UAC #3 in the FCS in terms of OOC game performance and/or statistical performance in the FCS?
Meh....

So much of the computer love for the UAC is coming exclusively from the losses being good teams and pure number of FBS games.

I did a very quick look at FCS wins/losses for the UAC and I found 10 wins and 11 losses. No FBS or sub D1 games.

The wins have a combined record of 9-29. 4 of the 9 are against teams that are winless. 8 of the 10 are against teams that have 1 or 0 wins. The two wins over teams that are .500 or better through the first 4 weeks are 2-2 PVAMU and 3-1 UT-C.

There have been a ton of opportunities for the UAC to actually wins games against "top teams" to show the strength and depth but they just haven't happened. Losses to SIU, NDSU, WCU, SEMO, Davi, UIW, Mercer, Martin, Montana, Montana State, and then getting absolutely curb stomped by freaking Misery State.

The #3 rating in Massey is because the conference as a whole played a "normal" Big Sky/MVFC like schedule that any random Big Sky/MVFC team would play week in and week out along with having about 9 FBS losses sprinkled in there.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F7OM3veXYAAUH60?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F7VGO1nX0AAILOg?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

Saturday, October 7, 2023

4:00 P.M. - (RV) Southeast Missouri @ #23 Central Arkansas (ESPN+)
6:00 P.M. - Southern Utah @ (RV) Tarleton State (ESPN+)
8:00 P.M. - (RV) Stephen F. Austin State @ Utah Tech (ESPN+)

[SFA 93]

REC:11;YARDS:111;TD:3
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F7dRQO_WEAAkLcB?format=jpg&name=large

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F8RmP4iWkAAL7as?format=jpg&name=medium

[EKU05]

If no one saw the end of it, the end of regulation and overtime of the TSU @ EKU game were wild! I couldn't even begin to describe the unlikely sequence of events in a message board post.

[SFA 93]

Very frustrating how SFA can't seem to finish a game.

L 20-22 Austin Peay (SFA leading 20-14 in the 4th)
L 31-37 @Utah Tech (SFA leading 24-17 in the 4th)
L 21-24 @Central Arkansas (SFA leading 21-17 in the 4th)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F8p2CKeXoAU6W9r?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F8vDZHsWsAEDNf0?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F9Ns7GgXoAA_1_P?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F9PLy_2bsAA2B5I?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[UNAPride]

Cool graphic. Thanks for posting. I've been eyeing that Massey rating for several weeks now. It's held steady at #3.

[SFA 93]

SFA has 4 of those games decided by 7 or less points. (all losses for the Jacks)

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F9YSW9uXkAAAbMI?format=jpg&name=4096x4096

[BEAR]

UCA's remaining schedule and Massey prediction:



Sat 11-18 02:00.PM.ET
at
Austin Peay (https://masseyratings.com/cf2023/451)
9(5-2)
35 % (https://masseyratings.com/game.php?gid=938288605)
27
34



Sat 11-11 05:00.PM.ET

E Kentucky (https://masseyratings.com/cf2023/2346)
36(3-4)
66 % (https://masseyratings.com/game.php?gid=938288494)
35
28



Sat 11-04 05:00.PM.ET
at
North Alabama (https://masseyratings.com/cf2023/5484)
62(3-5)
81 % (https://masseyratings.com/game.php?gid=938288369)
35
21



Sat 10-28 05:00.PM.ET

Tarleton St (https://masseyratings.com/cf2023/7757)
50(5-3)
78 % (https://masseyratings.com/game.php?gid=938288240)
34
21




I think three of those will be close. I don't see the UNA game being as close. But the other three I can imagine UCA will play like they did against SFA and SEMO. xlolx

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F9dIYyvXgAAqGy_?format=jpg&name=medium

[bonarae]

Why do you think the UAC has been underappreciated by even their fans on national boards like this one? xchinscratchx

[SFA 93]

The amazing thing is that SFA is in 4 of those 6 categories, and yet dead last in the UAC.

[SFA 93]

Why do you think the UAC has been underappreciated by even their fans on national boards like this one? xchinscratchx

On this board we have what 2 SFA, 1 UCA, 1 ACU, 1 UNA, 1 EKU, 1 APSU fans, not sure if we have a Southern Utah, Utah Tech, or Tarleton State fans.

Will have to see if any UTRGV and West Georgia fans show up in the coming seasons.

[SFA 93]

NOV. 4, 2023

1:00 P.M. - LINCOLN UNIVERSITY (CA.) @ SOUTHERN UTAH (ESPN+)
2:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH @ ABILENE CHRISTIAN (ESPN+)
4:00 P.M. - #18 CENTRAL ARKANSAS @ NORTH ALABAMA (ESPN+)
5:00 P.M. - #20 AUSTIN PEAY @ EASTERN KENTUCKY (ESPN+) <The battle for first!>
6:00 P.M. - STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE @ (RV) TARLETON STATE (ESPN+)

[UNAPride]

Why do you think the UAC has been underappreciated by even their fans on national boards like this one? xchinscratchx



On this board we have what 2 SFA, 1 UCA, 1 ACU, 1 UNA, 1 EKU, 1 APSU fans, not sure if we have a Southern Utah, Utah Tech, or Tarleton State fans.

Will have to see if any UTRGV and West Georgia fans show up in the coming seasons.


The main online discussions of the UAC are split between the ASUN and WAC boards on CSNbbs.

ASUN forum "2023 United Athletic Conference Football": https://csnbbs.com/thread-962008.html

The WAC forum goes by week, "UAC FOOTBALL WEEK #9": https://csnbbs.com/thread-979737.html

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F-CcROLXEAAgREJ?format=jpg&name=medium
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F-CdI51XMAEFtBi?format=jpg&name=medium

[Puddin Tane]

Dang, sfa….carthel catching any crap?

[McCowboys]

McNeese fans know Tarleton is pretty good, but what on earth happened to SFA last night?

[SFA 93]

1:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH @#17 AUSTIN PEAY (ESPN+)
2:00 P.M. - (RV) TARLETON STATE @ABILENE CHRISTIAN (ESPN+)
4:00 P.M. - EASTERN KENTUCKY @#25 CENTRAL ARKANSAS (ESPN+)
4:00 P.M. - SOUTHERN UTAH @ STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE (ESPN+)

STANDINGS

#17 AUSTIN PEAY 7-2; 4-0
#25 CENTRAL ARKANSAS 6-3; 3-1
EASTERN KENTUCKY 4-5; 3-1
(RV) TARLETON STATE 7-3; 3-2
ABILENE CHRISTIAN 5-4; 3-2
SOUTHERN UTAH 4-5; 2-2
UTAH TECH 2-7; 1-3
NORTH ALABAMA 3-7; 1-5
STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE 3-6; 0-4

[SFA 93]

Yes, Jack Nation is pretty frustrated as is Carthel, snake bite program right now and the wheels came completely off in Stephenville against the Texans with 5 turnovers.

We were at the game and left with 10 minutes remaining in the 2nd quarter, it was so bad.

Before this game, the Jacks just couldn't close out games, blowing 4th quarter leads.


SFA 3-6; 0-4


L @Troy State 30-48
W Alcorn State 38-10
W @Northwestern State 41-7
L #18 Austin Peay 20-22
W Texas A&M - Commerce 56-27
L @Utah Tech 31-37
L @#19 Central Arkansas 21-24
L Abilene Christian 27-34
L @Tarleton State 17-59

Carthel Era at SFA
2019 3-9; 3-6
2020 6-4; 0-0
2021 8-4; 6-2; Playoffs (Contract Extension)
2022 6-5; 3-1; Conference Champions
2023 3-6; 0-4

[McCowboys]

"wheels came completely off in Stephenville against the Texans with 5 turnovers." xbangx

[SFA 93]

NOV. 18, 2023

11:00 A.M. - TEXAS A&M VS. ABILENE CHRISTIAN (ESPN+)
1:00 P.M. - #17 AUSTIN PEAY VS. #25 CENTRAL ARKANSAS (ESPN+) <Bears playing for a share of the UAC Title>
2:00 P.M. - EASTERN KENTUCKY VS. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE (ESPN+)
5:00 P.M. - UTAH TECH VS. SOUTHERN UTAH (ESPN+)
6:30 P.M. - #4 FLORIDA STATE VS. NORTH ALABAMA (ESPN+)

STANDINGS

#17 AUSTIN PEAY 8-2; 5-0
#25 CENTRAL ARKANSAS 7-3; 4-1
(RV) TARLETON STATE 8-3; 4-2
SOUTHERN UTAH 5-5; 3-2
EASTERN KENTUCKY 4-6; 3-2
ABILENE CHRISTIAN 5-5; 3-3
UTAH TECH 2-8; 1-4
NORTH ALABAMA 3-7; 1-5
STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE 3-7; 0-5

[McCowboys]

Looks like lots of the Lumberjacks have just quit.

[SFA 93]

I think the defense is still playing hard, it's the offense that is not staying on the field.

But yeah the season is a disaster and everyone just wants it over.

Fans are calling for OC Matt Storm to go.

The EKU and UCA game was a classic...

- - - Updated - - -

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F-xA4t6WwAAmUey?format=jpg&name=medium

[UNAPride]

https://uacfootball.com/images/2023/11/14/Schedule_2024_headerv2_93.png?width=1416&height=797&mode=crop

2024 United Athletic Conference (UAC) Football Conference Schedule (game times TBA)

Saturday, Sept. 14
Austin Peay at Central Arkansas
West Georgia at EKU

Saturday, Sept. 21
Tarleton State at West Georgia

Saturday, Sept. 28
Abilene Christian at Utah Tech
Southern Utah at Austin Peay
EKU at Stephen F. Austin
West Georgia at North Alabama

Saturday, Oct. 5
Stephen F. Austin at Abilene Christian
North Alabama at Utah Tech
Tarleton State at Southern Utah
Austin Peay at West Georgia

Saturday, Oct. 12
Abilene Christian at North Alabama
Stephen F. Austin at Central Arkansas
West Georgia at Southern Utah
Utah Tech at Tarleton State

Saturday, Oct. 19
Central Arkansas at Abilene Christian
EKU at Austin Peay

Saturday, Oct. 26
Tarleton State at Austin Peay
North Alabama at Central Arkansas
Southern Utah at EKU
Utah Tech at Stephen F. Austin

Saturday, Nov. 2
Southern Utah at Abilene Christian
Austin Peay at North Alabama
Central Arkansas at Utah Tech
EKU at Tarleton State
Stephen F. Austin at West Georgia

Saturday, Nov. 9
Abilene Christian at Austin Peay
Central Arkansas at Tarleton State
North Alabama at EKU
Stephen F. Austin at Southern Utah
Utah Tech at West Georgia

Saturday, Nov. 16
EKU at Abilene Christian
Austin Peay at Utah Tech
West Georgia at Central Arkansas
Southern Utah at North Alabama
Tarleton State at Stephen F. Austin

Saturday, Nov. 23
Abilene Christian at Tarleton State
Central Arkansas at EKU
North Alabama at Stephen F. Austin
Utah Tech at Southern Utah

Saturday, Nov. 30 - FCS Playoffs (First Round)


https://uacfootball.com/news/2023/11/7/uac-football-announces-8-game-schedule-for-2024.aspx

[SFA 93]

4 out of 5 road stretch for the Jacks

Wow, SFA at UCA again?

That's 4 out of the last 5 games SFA has had to travel to Conway. We have played home and home schedule with everyone but UCA.

Finally get to play North Alabama.

[SFA 93]

FINAL STANDINGS

#12 AUSTIN PEAY 9-2; 6-0
(RV) TARLETON STATE 8-3; 4-2
#25 CENTRAL ARKANSAS 7-4; 4-2
SOUTHERN UTAH 6-5; 4-2
EASTERN KENTUCKY 5-6; 4-2
ABILENE CHRISTIAN 5-6; 3-3
NORTH ALABAMA 3-8; 1-5
UTAH TECH 2-9; 1-5
STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE 3-8; 0-6

NOVEMBER 25

FCS PLAYOFFS (ROUND ONE)

2:00 P.M. - CHATTANOOGA @ AUSTIN PEAY (ESPN+)

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F_enawGXIAA_whv?format=jpg&name=small

[SFA 93]

UAC Home Attendance (Average)

Tarleton State (18,697)
North Alabama - 20,127
Southwest Baptist - 22,251
Southern Utah - 10,835
Morehead State - 23,042
Stephen F. Austin State - 17,230

Eastern Kentucky (11,654)
Western Carolina - 13,596
#16 Southeast Missouri State - 13,477
Tarleton State - 12,063
#17 Austin Peay - 10,067
Stephen F. Austin State - 9,069

North Alabama (9,494)
Chattanooga - 9,361
UT Martin - 8,836
Eastern Kentucky - 11,430
Utah Tech - 8,840
#25 Central Arkansas - 9,003

Austin Peay (8,309)
ETSU - 8,296
Gardner-Webb - 7,503
North Alabama - 8,698
Utah Tech - 7,116
#20 Central Arkansas - 9,931

Stephen F. Austin State (8,100)
Alcorn State - 7,844
Austin Peay - 9,832
Texas A&M - Commerce - 7,029
Abilene Christian - 8,961
Southern Utah - 6,835

Abilene Christian (7,090)
Northern Colorado - 6,164
#9 UIW - 8,280
North Alabama - 10,383
Utah Tech - 4,076
Tarleton State - 6,545

Central Arkansas (7,048)
Texas College - 8,759
Abilene Christian - 8,657
Southeast Missouri- 9,457
Stephen F. Austin State - 7,137
Tarleton State - 2,854
Eastern Kentucky - 5,423

Utah Tech (5,132)
#13 Montana- 5,766
Stephen F. Austin State - 3,440
Eastern Kentucky - 5,245
Southern Utah - 6,077

Southern Utah (4,011)
Western Illinois - 6,504
#25 Central Arkansas - 4,013
#24 Austin Peay - 3,547
Abilene Christian - 2,969
Lincoln University (CA.) - 3,023

[SFA 93]

Tarleton State Football finishes 4th nationally in average attendance across 129 FCS programs

https://tarletonsports.com/news/2023/11/22/tarleton-state-football-finishes-4th-nationally-in-average-attendance-across-129-fcs-programs.aspx

[SFA 93]

Scotty Walden steps down at Austin Peay to take head coaching job at UTEP.

The 34-year old Walden, a Texas native (Cleburne) and Sul Ross State grad. started his coaching career at East Texas Baptist in 2016 at the age of 27.

2016 - East Texas Baptist 7-3 (4th Place)
2020 - Austin Peay 4-2 (3rd Place)
2021 - Austin Peay 6-5 (2nd Place)
2022 - Austin Peay 7-4 (ASUN Champions)
2023 - Austin Peay 9-3 (UAC Champions)

11 Austin Peay players have entered the portal and 9 of those have committed to UTEP.

Austin Peay hires Knoxville, Tenn. native Jeff Faris who has been at UCLA the last two seasons as the Tight Ends coach under Chip Kelly.

33-year old Faris was the OC at Duke in 2021.

Coach Faris already making a splash in the portal

QB: Mason Garcia 6-5; 230 Myrtle Beach, SC (Carolina Forest/East Carolina) **** #7 PRO QB
WR: Malik Bowen-Sims 6-2; 195 Mount Juliet, TN (Mount Juliet/Duke) ***

UTRGV football first signing day

https://goutrgv.com/news/2023/12/20/football-signs-first-10-vaqueros-for-2024.aspx

The Vaqueros will play their first game Aug. 30, 2025 (TBA)

West Georgia names Joel Taylor as their new head coach

Taylor a Brooklyn, NY native was the former DC at Mercer University

https://uwgathletics.com/news/2023/12/2/football-uwg.aspx

[bonarae]

UTRGV has purchased the stadium of a defunct local pro soccer team and will use it for its games.

https://fbschedules.com/utrgv-football-to-play-at-newly-renamed-utrgv-stadium/

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIvI-gyXEAArXbm?format=jpg&name=medium

[bonarae]

UNA's on-campus stadium is now approved at last.

https://www.una.edu/bistadium/index.html

[Laker]

Pete Thamel (https://twitter.com/PeteThamel)@PeteThamel (https://twitter.com/PeteThamel)

Sources: UTRGV officials informed WAC officials they are leaving the WAC for the Southland Conference, a change that’s expected for the 2024-25 season. UTRGV finished last in the WAC in both men’s and women’s basketball in 2023-24. They are expected to owe the WAC $2 million.

[Mike296]

Pete Thamel (https://twitter.com/PeteThamel)@PeteThamel (https://twitter.com/PeteThamel)

Sources: UTRGV officials informed WAC officials they are leaving the WAC for the Southland Conference, a change that’s expected for the 2024-25 season. UTRGV finished last in the WAC in both men’s and women’s basketball in 2023-24. They are expected to owe the WAC $2 million.




I think that is a better fit for them anyway.
Lamar,Commerce,HCU,AMCC in one conference vs having to go west to Utah and California/East to Tennessee and Kentucky in Football. Makes you wonder if we’re eventually going to see an all Texas conference at some point with how many we have in D1 FCS/Mid Majors

You have:
Tarleton
Houston Christian
Abilene Christian
Lamar
Commerce
UTRGV
AMCC
UTA
SFA
UIW
TX Southern(Just including for sake of inclusion)
Prairie View A&M(Same as TXSO)
That’s a 10 school league without the HBCU’s that probably would never be in a position to join.
Maybe UT-PB gets a call too? Irdk the state of their athletic programs currently.

[bonarae]

McFarland is back as an assistant with SFA.

https://sfajacks.com/news/2024/3/26/football-former-sfa-head-coach-returns-to-the-lumberjacks

(This time it's in the right thread.)

[bonarae]

SFA students shoot down athletics fee proposal.

https://www.thepinelog.com/news/campus_news/article_88cd2d08-f769-11ee-8806-134339587cc8.html

[bonarae]

From the FCS Fans Nation Facebook group (a random shared post):

The only two Division I programs in the state of Texas without football: UT Arlington and TAMU-CC. At one point they did have a football program. Is it time for them to join UTRGV and bring it back?

Conversely, there are a handful of Northeastern states' programs who used to have football and dropped it (read: New York and Massachusetts are among them).

[SFA 93]

Brandon Lane (DL) SFA to Michigan St