The Texans used the strong first half to hold off a surging Hilltoppers' team that outscored Tarleton 45-44 in the second half. However, the game never really felt out of hand after the Texans went on their first run in the first half.
The Texans used a 34-point turnaround from the first game when Tarleton lost by 18 and then won today by 16.
"I wanted to see how much we had improved in the last three weeks," said head coach Lonn Reisman. "I felt good about the way we played tonight. I thought the guys played hard tonight and I think we have come a long way in the last three weeks. This was a very good basketball team we played tonight, and I feel good about our last three wins - they were all quality."
The Texans will now take off a few days of practicing to head home for the Christmas holiday. The team reports back on the evening of Dec. 26 in order to prepare for the Dec. 29 game against Paul Quinn at 2 p.m.
It was fun watching the guys part ways for a few days. It was almost like they didn't want to leave each other. They seemed a little reluctant to spend seven days apart after they have been together all semester, especially every day since the season started on Oct. 15. It was a very good definition of team watching the way they parted.
And they way they played tonight, I hope when they get back, the chemistry will continue to grow. Tonight's game was fun to watch, I hope you got to see it. If not, I hope you got to listen to it. If not, read the story here.
Merry Christmas Texans, and thanks for giving Tarleton fans the program's 10th straight winning record heading into the Christmas break!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Enjoying a double
The Texans are leading St. Edward's by 17 at the break, doubling the Hilltoppers' total, 34-17.
The first time the two teams met, the Texans fell 88-70 in Austin after trailing 43-26 at the break. Although, Tarleton did have a strong second half, getting outscored by just one in the second period, 45-44.
This has become a pretty good rivalry game between the Texans and the Hilltoppers, and SEU is a very good team that has made the last few South Central Regional tournaments. So don't count them out just yet, but be proud of the Texans, they look good tonight and are playing very good team ball through the first half of action.
The first time the two teams met, the Texans fell 88-70 in Austin after trailing 43-26 at the break. Although, Tarleton did have a strong second half, getting outscored by just one in the second period, 45-44.
This has become a pretty good rivalry game between the Texans and the Hilltoppers, and SEU is a very good team that has made the last few South Central Regional tournaments. So don't count them out just yet, but be proud of the Texans, they look good tonight and are playing very good team ball through the first half of action.
TexAnns fall to Lions, 65-57
The TexAnns were outscored 19-8 in the final eight minutes of the second half and fell victom to the Lions for the third straight time, losing 65-57 on Thursday night.
It was the TexAnns' third straight loss after rattling off a five-game win streak earlier in the season. Tarleton falls to 5-5 overall and TAMUC improved to 5-2.
The TexAnns will return to action on Tuesday, Dec. 30 when they host Lubbock Christian. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. at Wisdom Gym.
It was the TexAnns' third straight loss after rattling off a five-game win streak earlier in the season. Tarleton falls to 5-5 overall and TAMUC improved to 5-2.
The TexAnns will return to action on Tuesday, Dec. 30 when they host Lubbock Christian. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. at Wisdom Gym.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Texans fall to No. 10 UCO
EDMOND, Okla. – The Tarleton Texans were outscored 14-4 in the first seven of the second half, and Tarleton could not recover, falling to the No. 10 Central Oklahoma Bronchos, 79-68.
The Texans, who fell to 6-3 on the season, trailed by just two at the break, but Tarleton trailed by as much as 15 on two different occasions in the second period. Last year, the Texans watched Eric Cazenave hit a three in the final 10 seconds to end Tarleton’s season, and the Broncho junior scored 23 points Monday to help hand the Texans’ the defeat.
“We are just not there yet, and they have a lot of experience and are much further along than we are,” said head coach Lonn Reisman. “We have some players that are in the second and third games with us and we lost our point guard, Cortney Hill, early in the game.”
The Texans had 16 turnovers that led to 21 UCO points, and the head coach believes part of that is the fact the chemistry is still not there.
“We have a lot of maturing to do,” Reisman said. “If we do, we might be able to play this team and play them a little better. We are going to be OK. We just have to keep playing and keep practicing and hopefully our inexperience will become experience. We are going to continue to get better as time goes on. This was our first long road trip, and to go home 1-1 after these two hard games is good for building our experience.”
And now, for the rest of the story.
The Texans, who fell to 6-3 on the season, trailed by just two at the break, but Tarleton trailed by as much as 15 on two different occasions in the second period. Last year, the Texans watched Eric Cazenave hit a three in the final 10 seconds to end Tarleton’s season, and the Broncho junior scored 23 points Monday to help hand the Texans’ the defeat.
“We are just not there yet, and they have a lot of experience and are much further along than we are,” said head coach Lonn Reisman. “We have some players that are in the second and third games with us and we lost our point guard, Cortney Hill, early in the game.”
The Texans had 16 turnovers that led to 21 UCO points, and the head coach believes part of that is the fact the chemistry is still not there.
“We have a lot of maturing to do,” Reisman said. “If we do, we might be able to play this team and play them a little better. We are going to be OK. We just have to keep playing and keep practicing and hopefully our inexperience will become experience. We are going to continue to get better as time goes on. This was our first long road trip, and to go home 1-1 after these two hard games is good for building our experience.”
And now, for the rest of the story.
Tarleton down by 12
The Texans, who trailed by just one at the break, have been outscored 14-4 in the first seven minutes of the second half and have turned the ball over on several occasions.
Texans trail at the half at UCO
There have been 10 lead changes in the men's basketball game at Central Oklahoma in the frist half, and the Texans trail 37-35 in Edmond, Okla.
The Texans used an 8-0 run to take a 29-22 lead, but a 13-1 run by the Bronchos put the home team ahead 37-32. The Texans had three free throws in the final minute to cut the lead to two at the half.
The Texans used an 8-0 run to take a 29-22 lead, but a 13-1 run by the Bronchos put the home team ahead 37-32. The Texans had three free throws in the final minute to cut the lead to two at the half.
On the road again...
After a long time without posting, I figured sitting in the hotel room for the third straight day was a great chance to get going again.
The men's and women's basketball teams are on a LONG two-game road trip. We left the 'Ville on Friday at noon and drove to Tahlequah, Okla. We spent the night before getting up to play at Northeastern State. The TexAnns lost to NSU on Saturday after falling behind in the first half. They got within four after being down around 20 points in the first period, but they couldn't quite get over the hump and. Here's the game story.
The Texans used strong defense to return to their winning ways and avoiding their first third-straight regular season loss since the 2000-01 season. The Texans played well in the victory over the RiverHawks. Here's the game story.
We then spent the night on Saturday night in northeast Oklahoma again before getting on the bus and driving to Edmond, Okla. yesterday afternoon. The two teams had practice at Central Oklahoma before retiring to the hotel, and a lot watched a victorious Dallas Cowboys team win despite the hype of the absence of the concept of being a team - or so they said.
This morning, the teams have been up and moving around and going to shoot around. The UCO campus held finals last week and had graduation just like Tarleton. I don't know how many people will be there tonight to watch the No. 7 Broncho men and the No. 12 Broncho men host the Texans and TexAnns. The women are averaging 300 at Hamilton Field House while the men are averaging 417 at home.
Both games will be broadcast on KSTV 93.1 FM with the women's game set to start at 6 p.m. and the men to follow at 8 p.m.
Then the road trip continues as we head home. Hopefully, it'll feel short and be a happy one when all is said and done.
The men's and women's basketball teams are on a LONG two-game road trip. We left the 'Ville on Friday at noon and drove to Tahlequah, Okla. We spent the night before getting up to play at Northeastern State. The TexAnns lost to NSU on Saturday after falling behind in the first half. They got within four after being down around 20 points in the first period, but they couldn't quite get over the hump and. Here's the game story.
The Texans used strong defense to return to their winning ways and avoiding their first third-straight regular season loss since the 2000-01 season. The Texans played well in the victory over the RiverHawks. Here's the game story.
We then spent the night on Saturday night in northeast Oklahoma again before getting on the bus and driving to Edmond, Okla. yesterday afternoon. The two teams had practice at Central Oklahoma before retiring to the hotel, and a lot watched a victorious Dallas Cowboys team win despite the hype of the absence of the concept of being a team - or so they said.
This morning, the teams have been up and moving around and going to shoot around. The UCO campus held finals last week and had graduation just like Tarleton. I don't know how many people will be there tonight to watch the No. 7 Broncho men and the No. 12 Broncho men host the Texans and TexAnns. The women are averaging 300 at Hamilton Field House while the men are averaging 417 at home.
Both games will be broadcast on KSTV 93.1 FM with the women's game set to start at 6 p.m. and the men to follow at 8 p.m.
Then the road trip continues as we head home. Hopefully, it'll feel short and be a happy one when all is said and done.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Texans 8-3 as season closes
The Tarleton Texans' football season has ended with an 8-3 record after a loss at West Texas A&M on Saturday. The outcome obviously wasn't what the Texans wanted heading into the game, needing a win to reach the NCAA Division II playoffs for the first time since 2003.
Congrats to the Texans on their ninth straight winning season! And good news, only seven seniors that played in the final game are lost, so a solid group of returners are in place for next season.
Final thoughts on this football season? Give them to us in the comment section.
Congrats to the Texans on their ninth straight winning season! And good news, only seven seniors that played in the final game are lost, so a solid group of returners are in place for next season.
Final thoughts on this football season? Give them to us in the comment section.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Texans win on national TV
The Texans pulled off a win against Angelo State Thursday on national TV. Thanks to CBS College Sports Television, the Texans and the Rams were seen nationwide, but it turned in to much more of a game than what should have been, or at least what the papers and stats said.
Here's a link to the story.
Tell us what you thought about the game in the comment section.
Here's a link to the story.
Tell us what you thought about the game in the comment section.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Texans fall to No. 20
The Texans fell to No. 20 in the nation in the AFCA poll this week. Tarleton also fell in the D2Football.com poll.
What do you think? Is this a good ranking? What do you see out of Thursday's game?
Tell us in the comment section below.
What do you think? Is this a good ranking? What do you see out of Thursday's game?
Tell us in the comment section below.
Monday, October 27, 2008
PURPLE OUT!.... Help break a record!
Tarleton wants to break the all-time attendance record at Memorial Stadium for a Tarleton football game, which means we need over 9,850 people for the nationally-televised game on CBS College Sports Network.
We are asking everyone to wear PURPLE and join us for the nationally-ranked Texans!
For all Stephenville residents and Tarleton faculty/staff members, get $1 tickets during presale on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from noon-4:30 p.m. at the ticket booth in Wisdom Gym. On Thursday, you can only get tickets at the gate for regular price.
Anyone can order tickets online by Wednesday at TarletonTickets.com.
The game is also Take A Kid to the Game night where all kids 14-and-under will get in free.
There will be a live band at Texan Alley - No Justice - starting at 5:15 p.m. There will also be free give-aways and contests throughout the night.
Bring your signs and be on national television this Thursday and support the Texans! And bring your friends, and their friends, too!
We are asking everyone to wear PURPLE and join us for the nationally-ranked Texans!
For all Stephenville residents and Tarleton faculty/staff members, get $1 tickets during presale on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from noon-4:30 p.m. at the ticket booth in Wisdom Gym. On Thursday, you can only get tickets at the gate for regular price.
Anyone can order tickets online by Wednesday at TarletonTickets.com.
The game is also Take A Kid to the Game night where all kids 14-and-under will get in free.
There will be a live band at Texan Alley - No Justice - starting at 5:15 p.m. There will also be free give-aways and contests throughout the night.
Bring your signs and be on national television this Thursday and support the Texans! And bring your friends, and their friends, too!
Now No. 9
After getting as high as No. 7 in the NCAA Division II Super Regional Four poll, Tarleton fell to No. 9 in this week's regional ranking. The top six teams get into the national playoffs, so the Texans really need to win the last two games of the season to give themselves a chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2003 and just the third time in school history.
Go here for more information on this week's regional poll.
Go here for more information on this week's regional poll.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
LIVE game blog
Check out here for a live game blog this afternoon.
Tarleton held ENMU in check in the first quarter, keeping the Greyhounds off the scoreboard. However, the Texans scored when Roderick Smith rumbled 68 yards for the first points of the game. Garrett Lindholm, who missed a 44-yard field goal earlier in the game, kicked the extra point to make it 7-0 Tarleton. The drive took up 2:39 and covered 96 plays on seven plays.
The Texans added to their lead when Scott Grantham found Eric Foreman for a six-yard touchdown strike. Lindholm's kick made it 14-0 with 12:20 left in the first half, capping a 13-play, 65-yard drive that took 4:44 off the clock.
Tarleton then intercepted the ball around midfield and Grantham ran in from nine yards out to score. The drive took five plays and 35 yards in exactly 120 seconds. Lindholm's kick put the home team ahead 21-0 with 10:02 remaining in the first session.
The Texans fumbled the ball at midfield, and ENMU took the drive 46 yards on 10 plays and scored when J.J. Harp found Jesse Poku from five yards out. Adam Richards added the extra point to make it 21-7.
On the ensuing kickoff, Travis Evans returned the ball 47 yards to the ENMU 48-yardline with nine seconds left. Tarleton had time for one play, a 30-yard pass from Grantham to Evans, but the running back failed to get out of bounds in time, and the first half clock ran out with the Texans leading 21-7.
Shamarr Prentice's first catch of the game was a 34-yard touchdown toss from Grantham with 8:10 left on the third quarter clock to close a 10-play, 89-yard drive. Lindholm's kick made it 28-7 Texans.
ENMU got deep into the Texan territory but missed a field goal, but Tarleton couldn't move the ball and had to punt. ENMU took the drive 41 yards on six plays when Terrence Griffin scored on a two-yard touchdown run. The kick was good, and the Greyhounds trailed, 28-14.
Evan took a five-yard handoff into the endzone with 4:50 remaining in the game, and Tarleton took a 35-14 lead with Grantham' kick. The drive took eight plays and 53 yards in 4:33.
The Greyhound's Harp found Matt Handler for 39-yard touchdown pass with 3:21 on the clock. The point after attempt by Richards made it 35-21.
ENMU then tried an on-side kick, but Tarleton's Devin Guinn jumped up to catch the ball and returned it to the Greyhounds' 19-yardline. Keith Demby then scored on a three-yard punch five plays later. Grantham's kick put the home team up 42-21.
What do you think of the game?
Tarleton held ENMU in check in the first quarter, keeping the Greyhounds off the scoreboard. However, the Texans scored when Roderick Smith rumbled 68 yards for the first points of the game. Garrett Lindholm, who missed a 44-yard field goal earlier in the game, kicked the extra point to make it 7-0 Tarleton. The drive took up 2:39 and covered 96 plays on seven plays.
The Texans added to their lead when Scott Grantham found Eric Foreman for a six-yard touchdown strike. Lindholm's kick made it 14-0 with 12:20 left in the first half, capping a 13-play, 65-yard drive that took 4:44 off the clock.
Tarleton then intercepted the ball around midfield and Grantham ran in from nine yards out to score. The drive took five plays and 35 yards in exactly 120 seconds. Lindholm's kick put the home team ahead 21-0 with 10:02 remaining in the first session.
The Texans fumbled the ball at midfield, and ENMU took the drive 46 yards on 10 plays and scored when J.J. Harp found Jesse Poku from five yards out. Adam Richards added the extra point to make it 21-7.
On the ensuing kickoff, Travis Evans returned the ball 47 yards to the ENMU 48-yardline with nine seconds left. Tarleton had time for one play, a 30-yard pass from Grantham to Evans, but the running back failed to get out of bounds in time, and the first half clock ran out with the Texans leading 21-7.
Shamarr Prentice's first catch of the game was a 34-yard touchdown toss from Grantham with 8:10 left on the third quarter clock to close a 10-play, 89-yard drive. Lindholm's kick made it 28-7 Texans.
ENMU got deep into the Texan territory but missed a field goal, but Tarleton couldn't move the ball and had to punt. ENMU took the drive 41 yards on six plays when Terrence Griffin scored on a two-yard touchdown run. The kick was good, and the Greyhounds trailed, 28-14.
Evan took a five-yard handoff into the endzone with 4:50 remaining in the game, and Tarleton took a 35-14 lead with Grantham' kick. The drive took eight plays and 53 yards in 4:33.
The Greyhound's Harp found Matt Handler for 39-yard touchdown pass with 3:21 on the clock. The point after attempt by Richards made it 35-21.
ENMU then tried an on-side kick, but Tarleton's Devin Guinn jumped up to catch the ball and returned it to the Greyhounds' 19-yardline. Keith Demby then scored on a three-yard punch five plays later. Grantham's kick put the home team up 42-21.
What do you think of the game?
Monday, October 13, 2008
Tarleton moves up to No. 8 in regional poll
The Texans moved up one spot to No. 8 in the latest NCAA Division II Super Regional Four poll released Monday.
The Texans, who are 6-1 in Division II action, moved up from No. 9 where they debuted in the first poll last week.
The top six teams in the final ranking make the Division II playoffs.
Who's number one? Who's number two? They play each other this week for probably at least a share of the LSC South Division and overall titles as well as perhaps the No. 1 spot in the region.
Check it out here who is ranked where.
Is this where you would put the Texans? Tell us in the comment section.
The Texans, who are 6-1 in Division II action, moved up from No. 9 where they debuted in the first poll last week.
The top six teams in the final ranking make the Division II playoffs.
Who's number one? Who's number two? They play each other this week for probably at least a share of the LSC South Division and overall titles as well as perhaps the No. 1 spot in the region.
Check it out here who is ranked where.
Is this where you would put the Texans? Tell us in the comment section.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Hello Win Column!
WICHITA FALLS - The No. 19 Tarleton Texans played a great game Saturday night, taking a 37-16 victory from No. 22 Midwestern State in Wichita Falls, spoiling the Mustangs' Homecoming.
The Texans outscored the home team 35-6 in the final three quarters, holding MSU scoreless in the second and third quarters.
Tarleton's Scott Grantham, despite completing just half of his attempts, perhaps had his most complete game of the season. The offense drove down the field and scored on the first three possessions and then came to life again in the second half, scoring three times in the third quarter and holding onto the ball for 10 minutes in that period.
The Texans had both the running and the passing game going, and after MSU scored on their first two possessions, the defense stood firm allowing only a touchdown in the beginning of the fourth quarter.
It was a great game. If you got to see it, tell us what you thought about the game in the comments section. If you didn't get to see it, I hope you get to join us for the Homecoming game Saturday, Oct. 18 against Eastern New Mexico at 2 p.m.
The Texans outscored the home team 35-6 in the final three quarters, holding MSU scoreless in the second and third quarters.
Tarleton's Scott Grantham, despite completing just half of his attempts, perhaps had his most complete game of the season. The offense drove down the field and scored on the first three possessions and then came to life again in the second half, scoring three times in the third quarter and holding onto the ball for 10 minutes in that period.
The Texans had both the running and the passing game going, and after MSU scored on their first two possessions, the defense stood firm allowing only a touchdown in the beginning of the fourth quarter.
It was a great game. If you got to see it, tell us what you thought about the game in the comments section. If you didn't get to see it, I hope you get to join us for the Homecoming game Saturday, Oct. 18 against Eastern New Mexico at 2 p.m.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Texans fall to No. 19
WACO – The Tarleton Texan football team fell six spots to No. 19 in the latest American Football Coaches Association poll following its loss to unranked Texas A&M-Kingsville last week.
The Texans, who are 5-1 on the season and 0-1 in Lone Star Conference South Division action, dropped a 27-16 decision at home Saturday to the Javelinas to fall from No. 13 to No. 19.
Rest of the release here.
The Texans, who are 5-1 on the season and 0-1 in Lone Star Conference South Division action, dropped a 27-16 decision at home Saturday to the Javelinas to fall from No. 13 to No. 19.
Rest of the release here.
Texans fall to No. 19
WACO – The Tarleton Texan football team fell six spots to No. 19 in the latest American Football Coaches Association poll following its loss to unranked Texas A&M-Kingsville last week.
The Texans, who are 5-1 on the season and 0-1 in Lone Star Conference South Division action, dropped a 27-16 decision at home Saturday to the Javelinas to fall from No. 13 to No. 19.
Rest of the release here.
The Texans, who are 5-1 on the season and 0-1 in Lone Star Conference South Division action, dropped a 27-16 decision at home Saturday to the Javelinas to fall from No. 13 to No. 19.
Rest of the release here.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Texans debut at No. 9 in first regional ranking
The Tarleton Texans have debuted at No. 9 in the first NCAA Division II Super Regional Four ranking released today.
More information on the release. See who is in the Top 10.
More information on the release. See who is in the Top 10.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Texans picked to win South, women picked fourth
BARTLESVILLE, Okla. – The Tarleton Texan men’s basketball team has been selected to win the Lone Star Conference South Division, according to the LSC Preseason Poll released Wednesday in Bartlesville, Okla.
The Texans, who finished last season 25-7 overall after reaching the NCAA Division II South Central Regional championship game, were given 12 first-place votes to tally 115 total points.
The TexAnns were picked to finish fourth in the South with 75 points behind West Texas A&M (116), Abilene Christian (106) and Angelo State (89).
More info to come on the main site.
The Texans, who finished last season 25-7 overall after reaching the NCAA Division II South Central Regional championship game, were given 12 first-place votes to tally 115 total points.
The TexAnns were picked to finish fourth in the South with 75 points behind West Texas A&M (116), Abilene Christian (106) and Angelo State (89).
More info to come on the main site.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Wow!
I don't really know what else to say.
This was not a pretty game, not at all. But one play was, and last night, that was all that had mattered.
Scott Grantham, on perhaps his worst performance in purple and white, connected with wide receiver Eric Foreman on a 64-yard pass (the reception caught on camera by Nathan Burel and pictured on the right).
I am not sure what yardline on which Foreman caught the ball, but he ran it into the endzone for the go-ahead score. Sixty-four yards was the complete scoring play, but it was worth much more than six points.
It was worth this thing called VICTORY.
The Texan defense played great, especially since it was on the field 39:26. The defense kept the Texans in the game, but the whole team's desire to not give up until the last buzzer was impressive.
The whole team, and myself included, was jumping around running down to the other end of the field like little kids. We forgot about the final 13 seconds, but the Texan defense went out and stopped the last-second efforts by the Bulldogs and Tarleton improved to 5-0 on the season.
There were only a few pretty plays in the game, including the winning touchdown catch and a 54-yard touchdown run by Roderick Smith. But the prettiest part of the game was when time expired, the No. 16 Texans led 24-21.
And in the end, that's all that really matters, right?
Congratulations Texans on the win! Now, it's time to focus on the LSC South Division.
It only gets harder from here.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Sitting in the parking lot in Ardmore, Okla....
Last night brought back memories…
I was about five years old when my family went on vacation to San Antonio. We hit all the tourist spots including the Alamo, the Riverwalk and of course one of my favorite Mexican food places, Casa del Rio.
One night, we went to the Riverwalk and got on the riverboat. I was sitting in the front seat by myself, and right after we passed the outdoor theater, a big wave came over the front of the boat. I was thinking, “Cool!”, then I found out otherwise. Our boat… are you ready for this… SUNK! Yes, your read it right, sunk.
It took about an hour or hour and a half for them to send another boat around to pick us up and take us on the rest of the trip. By then, most of the people that were on the boat at the beginning had walked off. We got on and finished the tour. Overall, it was an interesting experience that we laugh about today, but at the time… not so much.
Fast forward to last night, Friday, Sept. 26.
We had just eaten supper at the Sirloin Stockade in Ardmore, Okla. And much like the riverboat when it passed through the live theater, we were watching a movie. And though there wasn’t a wave coming over the front of the bus, there might as well have been. Longer story shortened, that new bus (which was on its first trip) decided to sink out of commission. That’s right… we pulled off into a shopping center parking lot and we waited.
Finally, a few of the coaches took the starters and the rest of the two-deep on to Oklahoma City as about 10 other student-athletes and the rest of the coaches, support staff, radio guys and myself sat in the parking lot waiting. And waiting. And waiting.
Four hours after we first stopped, the replacement bus arrived from Oklahoma City and we finally head to OKC. We arrived at the hotel around 1 a.m., five hours after we were supposed to get to the Crowne Plaza.
We finished the movie we had started when we got back on the bus from supper, and they watched another, too.
Overall, though, the morale in the parking lot was good. A few of the trainers there, along with a few of the players, decided to take up a game of throw the empty Powerade bottle. I think it may have turned into a soccer bottle one time.
“I don’t like this, but there is nothing we can do about it,” said head coach Sam McElroy. “I am a routine-oriented guy, and last night didn’t go like we wanted it to go. But men, that is now behind us. Today, we focus on Southwestern Oklahoma, and if history repeats itself, it will be an all-out war.”
Talking to all the coaches, and Dr. Ron Newsome who has been on 1,000s of road trips, nobody has ever had this situation happen before.
How will the team respond this evening? I don’t think it will make a difference. I’m just glad it wasn’t on the way to Southwestern (now crossing my fingers!).
When we got of the bus early this morning at the hotel, Lucas Vance, the color commentator for the Tarleton Athletics Radio Network, said, “This will be a road trip I never forget. Remind me to never go to Ardmore, Okla. again.”
I am not sure we can hold it against Ardmore, or the bus company. I am glad we didn’t have anyone walk away while we were waiting for the bus like the people did it at the riverwalk.
I do know the boat finally arrived, and the tour, and the whole trip, turned out to be a wonderful experience.
Here’s hoping the same will be said when we get home early in the morning.
I was about five years old when my family went on vacation to San Antonio. We hit all the tourist spots including the Alamo, the Riverwalk and of course one of my favorite Mexican food places, Casa del Rio.
One night, we went to the Riverwalk and got on the riverboat. I was sitting in the front seat by myself, and right after we passed the outdoor theater, a big wave came over the front of the boat. I was thinking, “Cool!”, then I found out otherwise. Our boat… are you ready for this… SUNK! Yes, your read it right, sunk.
It took about an hour or hour and a half for them to send another boat around to pick us up and take us on the rest of the trip. By then, most of the people that were on the boat at the beginning had walked off. We got on and finished the tour. Overall, it was an interesting experience that we laugh about today, but at the time… not so much.
Fast forward to last night, Friday, Sept. 26.
We had just eaten supper at the Sirloin Stockade in Ardmore, Okla. And much like the riverboat when it passed through the live theater, we were watching a movie. And though there wasn’t a wave coming over the front of the bus, there might as well have been. Longer story shortened, that new bus (which was on its first trip) decided to sink out of commission. That’s right… we pulled off into a shopping center parking lot and we waited.
Finally, a few of the coaches took the starters and the rest of the two-deep on to Oklahoma City as about 10 other student-athletes and the rest of the coaches, support staff, radio guys and myself sat in the parking lot waiting. And waiting. And waiting.
Four hours after we first stopped, the replacement bus arrived from Oklahoma City and we finally head to OKC. We arrived at the hotel around 1 a.m., five hours after we were supposed to get to the Crowne Plaza.
We finished the movie we had started when we got back on the bus from supper, and they watched another, too.
Overall, though, the morale in the parking lot was good. A few of the trainers there, along with a few of the players, decided to take up a game of throw the empty Powerade bottle. I think it may have turned into a soccer bottle one time.
“I don’t like this, but there is nothing we can do about it,” said head coach Sam McElroy. “I am a routine-oriented guy, and last night didn’t go like we wanted it to go. But men, that is now behind us. Today, we focus on Southwestern Oklahoma, and if history repeats itself, it will be an all-out war.”
Talking to all the coaches, and Dr. Ron Newsome who has been on 1,000s of road trips, nobody has ever had this situation happen before.
How will the team respond this evening? I don’t think it will make a difference. I’m just glad it wasn’t on the way to Southwestern (now crossing my fingers!).
When we got of the bus early this morning at the hotel, Lucas Vance, the color commentator for the Tarleton Athletics Radio Network, said, “This will be a road trip I never forget. Remind me to never go to Ardmore, Okla. again.”
I am not sure we can hold it against Ardmore, or the bus company. I am glad we didn’t have anyone walk away while we were waiting for the bus like the people did it at the riverwalk.
I do know the boat finally arrived, and the tour, and the whole trip, turned out to be a wonderful experience.
Here’s hoping the same will be said when we get home early in the morning.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Luker goes from QB to rocker to QB on Sports Illustrated's website
Do you know this man to the right?Tarleton's junior transfer quarterback Kelan Luker is a product of Stephenville who returned to his roots following a career with a rock and roll band, Submersed.Today, his story is featured on SI.com, written by Andy Staples. For the actual story link, click here.
Tomorrow, Luker and his teammates take on Southwestern Oklahoma in Weatherford, Okla. at 6 p.m.
Listen to the game online and read the preview the game here.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Texans stay at No. 16
The Texans are still the No. 16 team in the country, according to the American Football Coaches Assocation poll.
However, in the national statistics, the Texans are No. 1 in tackles for loss per game, No. 2 in rushing defense, No. 13 in passing defense, No. 5 in scoring defense, No. 3 in total defense, No. 33 in total offense, No. 7 in rushing offense and No. 11 in scoring offense.
The Texans' Jamaal Steamer and Josh Douglas are tied for No. 7 individually in tackles for loss per game (2.13).
Roderick Smith is No. 3in scoring with 15.0 points per game.
So, if stats are worth anything, I would say we were better than No. 16, but I am not a member of the AFCA and can't vote.
What are your thoughts? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
Don't forget, the Texans kickoff Saturday in Weatherford, Okla. at 6 p.m. against Southwestern Oklahoma.
However, in the national statistics, the Texans are No. 1 in tackles for loss per game, No. 2 in rushing defense, No. 13 in passing defense, No. 5 in scoring defense, No. 3 in total defense, No. 33 in total offense, No. 7 in rushing offense and No. 11 in scoring offense.
The Texans' Jamaal Steamer and Josh Douglas are tied for No. 7 individually in tackles for loss per game (2.13).
Roderick Smith is No. 3in scoring with 15.0 points per game.
So, if stats are worth anything, I would say we were better than No. 16, but I am not a member of the AFCA and can't vote.
What are your thoughts? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
Don't forget, the Texans kickoff Saturday in Weatherford, Okla. at 6 p.m. against Southwestern Oklahoma.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
LIVE game blog vs. UCO
STEPHENVILLE - The Texans are set to kickoff against UCO for Family Weekend. We'll keep you updated LIVE on the blog.
Add your comments below about the game:
The Bronchos scored first as they drove 80 yards on nine plays to score. The PAT put the visitors ahead early at the 11:25-mark, 7-0.
The Texans took the ensuing drive 70 yards on eight plays before Roderick Smith punched it in from five yards away. Garrett Lindholm's kick made it a tie game, 7-7.
UCO then took the ball 76 yards on 17 plays during a 6:36-drive. The extra point made it 14-7 Bronchos with 57 seconds left in the first quarter.
Tarleton then went 73 yards on eight plays and 4:03 to tie the game on another Smith touchdown. Both Tarleton touchowns have been scored with 11:51 on the clock, and Lindholm's kick made it 14-14.
The Texan defense held the Broncho for the first time of the night, then drove 69 yards on five plays and scored when Devin Guinn caught a 28-yard pass from Scott Grantham to score. Lindholm's kick gave the Texans their first lead of the contest, 21-14.
UCO got an interception with the Texans driving and took six plays to eat up 27 yards and score on a 37-yard field goal by Chad Susman to make it 21-17.
On the ensuing kickoff, Smith returned a 93-yard kickoff return to put the Texans ahead 28-17 at the break thanks to Lindholm's kick.
Neither team scored until late in the third quarter when UCO was driving and quarterback Brandon Noohi fumbled the ball on the Tarleton end of the field. Tarleton's Marcus Phillips recovered the fumble and tried to scoop and score, but he was pushed out of bounds at the UCO 25-yardline. Three plays later, Grantham found Smith on a left side screen pass, and the running back scored from 22 yards out. Lindholm's kick made it 35-17 Texans.
The Texans drove within the UCO five, but the Broncho defense stopped Tarleton on four straight running plays. However, Alex Gibson, UCO's quarterback, was picked off at the UCO eight-yardline by Sheldon Monsegue who picked six. Lindholm added the point after attempt to make it 42-17 Texans.
Texans win in front of a crowd of 5,318, 42-17.
Add your comments below about the game:
The Bronchos scored first as they drove 80 yards on nine plays to score. The PAT put the visitors ahead early at the 11:25-mark, 7-0.
The Texans took the ensuing drive 70 yards on eight plays before Roderick Smith punched it in from five yards away. Garrett Lindholm's kick made it a tie game, 7-7.
UCO then took the ball 76 yards on 17 plays during a 6:36-drive. The extra point made it 14-7 Bronchos with 57 seconds left in the first quarter.
Tarleton then went 73 yards on eight plays and 4:03 to tie the game on another Smith touchdown. Both Tarleton touchowns have been scored with 11:51 on the clock, and Lindholm's kick made it 14-14.
The Texan defense held the Broncho for the first time of the night, then drove 69 yards on five plays and scored when Devin Guinn caught a 28-yard pass from Scott Grantham to score. Lindholm's kick gave the Texans their first lead of the contest, 21-14.
UCO got an interception with the Texans driving and took six plays to eat up 27 yards and score on a 37-yard field goal by Chad Susman to make it 21-17.
On the ensuing kickoff, Smith returned a 93-yard kickoff return to put the Texans ahead 28-17 at the break thanks to Lindholm's kick.
Neither team scored until late in the third quarter when UCO was driving and quarterback Brandon Noohi fumbled the ball on the Tarleton end of the field. Tarleton's Marcus Phillips recovered the fumble and tried to scoop and score, but he was pushed out of bounds at the UCO 25-yardline. Three plays later, Grantham found Smith on a left side screen pass, and the running back scored from 22 yards out. Lindholm's kick made it 35-17 Texans.
The Texans drove within the UCO five, but the Broncho defense stopped Tarleton on four straight running plays. However, Alex Gibson, UCO's quarterback, was picked off at the UCO eight-yardline by Sheldon Monsegue who picked six. Lindholm added the point after attempt to make it 42-17 Texans.
Texans win in front of a crowd of 5,318, 42-17.
Meanwhile... back at the stadium...
Tonight the Texans take on the Bronchos (yes, that is the correct spelling). Unfortunately, due to rule violations by Central Oklahoma, no football games can be broadcast via TV or the internet, so fans will only be able to listen to the game if you can't make it. Or of course, you could listen while at the game.
As usual, we will provide a live blog here on Tarleton Tales, so tell your friends, interact, and of course, root for the undefeated, No. 16 Tarleton Texans tonight with kickoff starting at 7 p.m.
What do you think of tonight's game? What are your predictions?
As usual, we will provide a live blog here on Tarleton Tales, so tell your friends, interact, and of course, root for the undefeated, No. 16 Tarleton Texans tonight with kickoff starting at 7 p.m.
What do you think of tonight's game? What are your predictions?
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Who's on your shirt?
Sometimes people give me a hard time about graduating from the private university in our conference to the west of us. And, yes, I am proud of the diplomas (two) I have from there.
However, I have never been more proud of our, that would be Tarleton's, volleyball team tonight!
For the first time since I have been here, and for the first time since 2002, the TexAnns downed the Wildcats. And they did it in pretty dominating fashion. They won 25-20, 25-12 and 25-21. And really, the first two games were not that close. They fought hard in the third set and came back to win it and close out the match.
The victory ended a nine-match losing streak to the other purple and white team from the LSC, and that is the best I have ever seen the TexAnns' play from the beginning to the end.
It was very exciting, and I am glad I was there to be a part of it... with my pointer finger in the air and a T on my shirt!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Up three spots...
The Texans have moved up three spots to No. 16 in the national AFCA poll (the official poll for NCAA Division II).
Nine of the Top 25 teams are in our region (Super Region 4), and six of them are in the Top 10... Top 9 actually.
This is a tough region that got tougher when Nebraska-Omaha joined the MIAA and we dropped the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) only to pick up the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). The GNAC, however, doesn't have enough teams to get an earned access bid to the playoffs, so one of their teams has be ranked in the Top 6 in the region to get in no matter what. However, Central Washington is ranked No. 8, and they are members of the GNAC.
Here is the poll release.
What do you think? How is this ranking in line with how you feel Tarleton should be ranked? Let us know in the comment section.
Nine of the Top 25 teams are in our region (Super Region 4), and six of them are in the Top 10... Top 9 actually.
This is a tough region that got tougher when Nebraska-Omaha joined the MIAA and we dropped the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) only to pick up the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). The GNAC, however, doesn't have enough teams to get an earned access bid to the playoffs, so one of their teams has be ranked in the Top 6 in the region to get in no matter what. However, Central Washington is ranked No. 8, and they are members of the GNAC.
Here is the poll release.
What do you think? How is this ranking in line with how you feel Tarleton should be ranked? Let us know in the comment section.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Watching a movie it occured to me...
On the bus on the way home, we watched a movie: 300.
As the Spartans were fighting to save their honor, they would stand their ground and fight no matter what happened. They used tactics to draw in the other side and became victorious on several occasions, but they perhaps get a little too condifent? After all, they all died.
It reminded me, I sometimes fail to mention, as often as I probably should, the stellar defense we have lining up in purple and white.
Under defensive coordinator Cary Fowler, the Texans have held opponents to a toal of 26 points in three games, an average of 8.7 points per game. Opponents have also only gained a total of 489 yards in the three games, an average of 163.0 yards per game.
In that average, the run defense is perhaps better than stellar, holding the other teams to an average of just 45.7 yards per game. In the first half, the defense is allowing an average of 42.67 yards per first quarter and 84.3 yards per first half. Below is the first quarter opponent stats:
Rushing Passing
Game 1 43 35
Game 2 1 5
Game 3 4 40
Overall opponent stats:
Rushing Passing Total
Game 1 46 142 188
Game 2 59 73 132
Game 3 32 137 169
I don't know about you, I am sure glad these guys are wearing purple and white. And in the little time I have known Coach Fowler, and definitely Coach McElroy, this defense shouldn't let up.
And I don't believe they will get too confident. "No retreat and no surrender." Not only are they the words of Leonidas before his final battle, I believe that could be the battle cry of the Texan defense.
And I am good if the number 300 is a part of the 2008 football season. Not in the number of players battling for the Texans, but as the number opponent offenses strive to reach against the Texans. So far, opponent offenses have gone by the way of the Spartans and come up short on the battlefields.
In the end, Leonidas tells one of his soldiers that is was an honor to live by his side, and truly, it is honor to watch this defense fight their battles... can't wait to see what happens next.
Wet, Wet, Wet
Well, I braved the rain for a quarter and a half without any rain gear (what was I thinking?) Now, I came up in hopes to be dry before getting on the bus at the end of the game. I really do love this game!
So far, nothing but Tarleton, and as I am typing this, Roderick Smith just scored his second rushing touchdown, this one from 29 yards away. Garrett Lindholm added his fourth PAT of the game to put the Texans up 31-0 with 5:59 left in the second quarter.
In the first half, the Texans held ECU, who trails 31-0, to just minus-three yards rushing and 68 total yards in the first half.
ECU's Marcus Johnson just threw for a 11-yard touchdown and the ensuing PAT was missed and almost blocked, but the score cut the lead to 31-6.
Smith scored his third touchdown this one from 68 yards away. Tarleton leads 38-6.
End of the third quarter... the Texans still lead 38-6. Total yards thus far - Tarleton: 261, 160 rushing; ECU: 137, 15 rushing.
The Texans had their first turnover of the game when Kelan Luker fumbled with just over six minutes left in the contest.
The game is over, and the Texans held strong on defense despite ECU driving inside the redzone. Tarleton wins, 38-6.
What did you think of the game?
On the way to East Central...
ARDMORE, Okla. - The No. 19 Texans are to play East Central in Ada, Okla. Saturday, and on the way, Tarleton stopped to eat its pregame meal at Budro's... and they welcomed the Texans on the sign (to the right).
The Texans' game has been moved to 4 p.m. and fans can watch the Texans online via the Tarleton Ticket. The Texans are also online at KSTV's web site or on the radio at 93.1 FM.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Gametime changed Saturday to 4 p.m.
The game on Saturday has been changed to 4 p.m. from the original 6 p.m. kickoff time.
More info later.
More info later.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Catch Scott Grantham... or at least his words
Sophomore quarterback Scott Grantham gives you his point of view at Tarleton Talks.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Still No. 19
The Texans are still ranked No. 19 in the nation, according to the AFCA poll. Here's the official release.
This region has nine teams in the Top 25... only six teams get into the playoffs, and we (the region) picked up two very good teams this year in Nebraska-Omaha and Central Washington.
Is this where the Texans should be rated? Should Tarleton be higher or lower?
Tell us your feelings in the comment section.
Also, be sure to tell your friends about the Tarleton blogs. This is a great place for fans to interact.
This region has nine teams in the Top 25... only six teams get into the playoffs, and we (the region) picked up two very good teams this year in Nebraska-Omaha and Central Washington.
Is this where the Texans should be rated? Should Tarleton be higher or lower?
Tell us your feelings in the comment section.
Also, be sure to tell your friends about the Tarleton blogs. This is a great place for fans to interact.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
FB vs. Northeastern State - LIVE Blog
Kickoff is just a few minutes away, and we will provide live updates from Memorial Stadium.
Gives us your comments on the game here in the comments section, and/or ask questions.
Game Notes:
The Texans got the ball fist and went for it on fourth, but came up short. The defense forced a three-and-out and then Tarleton drove the field, scoring first when last week's LSC Special Teams Player of the Week, Garret Lindholm, nailed a 46-yard field goal to put the home team up 3-0.
At the end of the first quarter, the Texans lead, 3-0. In the first quarter, the RiverHawks had 10 plays for a total of six yards, including nine rushes for one yard.
Tarleton took their first drive of the second quarter 47 yards on six plays and scored the first touchdown of the game when Roderick Smith punched it in from three yards out. Lindholm's PAT made it 10-0 Texans.
With 8:05 on the clock in the second quarter, Smith sprinted 66 yards around the left corner for another Texan score. Lindholm's kick made it 17-0.
Travis Evans just broke a 46-yard rush after spinning out of a pile of RiverHawks, then broke at least two more tackles, including plowing through a defensive player down the sideline. Scott Grantham then found Devin Guinn open in the endzone on a bootleg. Five plays, 64-yards and Lindholm's kick made it 24-0 with 3:24 left in the half.
Texans lead at the half, 24-0.
The shutout was lost when NSU's kicker, Jarrod Homer, nailed a 50-yard fiel goal attempt. But a false start penalty pushed the ball five yards back. Homer then nailed a 55-yard field goal to make it 24-3 Tarleton. The distance set a new school record for NSU.
The Texans are driving at the end of the third quarter, leading 24-3.
Tarleton scored again on a Tyler Maher touchdown catch from Grantham nine yards away to put the Texans up 31-3.
The Texans' Lindholm was set to kick a 48-yard field goal with 3:56 remaining in the game, but a roughing the kicker penalty moved Tarleton to the NSU 16-yardline. A pass from Grantham to Maher to the one before George Murray ran the ball in untouched to make it 38-10 with 3:27 on the clock after Lindholm's PAT.
The game has ended with the Texans improving to 2-0 on the season with a 38-10 victory. Total game recap and stats will be up on the TarletonSports.com website shortly.
Tell us your thoughts on the game in the comments section.
Gives us your comments on the game here in the comments section, and/or ask questions.
Game Notes:
The Texans got the ball fist and went for it on fourth, but came up short. The defense forced a three-and-out and then Tarleton drove the field, scoring first when last week's LSC Special Teams Player of the Week, Garret Lindholm, nailed a 46-yard field goal to put the home team up 3-0.
At the end of the first quarter, the Texans lead, 3-0. In the first quarter, the RiverHawks had 10 plays for a total of six yards, including nine rushes for one yard.
Tarleton took their first drive of the second quarter 47 yards on six plays and scored the first touchdown of the game when Roderick Smith punched it in from three yards out. Lindholm's PAT made it 10-0 Texans.
With 8:05 on the clock in the second quarter, Smith sprinted 66 yards around the left corner for another Texan score. Lindholm's kick made it 17-0.
Travis Evans just broke a 46-yard rush after spinning out of a pile of RiverHawks, then broke at least two more tackles, including plowing through a defensive player down the sideline. Scott Grantham then found Devin Guinn open in the endzone on a bootleg. Five plays, 64-yards and Lindholm's kick made it 24-0 with 3:24 left in the half.
Texans lead at the half, 24-0.
The shutout was lost when NSU's kicker, Jarrod Homer, nailed a 50-yard fiel goal attempt. But a false start penalty pushed the ball five yards back. Homer then nailed a 55-yard field goal to make it 24-3 Tarleton. The distance set a new school record for NSU.
The Texans are driving at the end of the third quarter, leading 24-3.
Tarleton scored again on a Tyler Maher touchdown catch from Grantham nine yards away to put the Texans up 31-3.
The Texans' Lindholm was set to kick a 48-yard field goal with 3:56 remaining in the game, but a roughing the kicker penalty moved Tarleton to the NSU 16-yardline. A pass from Grantham to Maher to the one before George Murray ran the ball in untouched to make it 38-10 with 3:27 on the clock after Lindholm's PAT.
The game has ended with the Texans improving to 2-0 on the season with a 38-10 victory. Total game recap and stats will be up on the TarletonSports.com website shortly.
Tell us your thoughts on the game in the comments section.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Check out updates here on Saturday
OK... hopefully, we will have the ability to put updates up on the game Saturday as the Texans are prepared to take on the RiverHawks of Northeastern State at 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium.
We invite your comments and questions as well. Just post in the comment section here on the blog.
Let's go Texans!
We invite your comments and questions as well. Just post in the comment section here on the blog.
Let's go Texans!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Running away with it!
Well... things didn't quite work out as planned to be able to blog during the game tonight, but a good game it was for the purple and white.
The Texans started out a little sluggish, but they quickly shook off the cobwebs and got to work, scoring the last 41 points of the contest to defeat Southeastern Oklahoma, 51-10 (Boxscore).
To read more about the Texans' victory, see the story on TarletonSports.com.
The offense and defense were both very "vanilla" in the playcalling, but that is to be expected in the first game of the season. The video will be posted online tomorrow via the Tarleton Ticket if you want to see the game. It will be in the archive section.
Well, the first game is under our belts, and for the seventh time this decade, the Texans won their opening contest. Way to go Texans!
Now, it's on to volleyball as the TexAnns travel to San Antonio for a tournament this weekend. Cross Country runs Friday as well.
School is here. Fall sports are here. Ready or not, it's all here, and when it comes to Tarleton athletics information, you will be able to find it here or here.
Way to go Texans. You started off on a winning note, now let's keep it going in that direction. Not just for football, but for all our teams in 2008-09.
Go Texans and TexAnns!
Tell us what you thought about the game in the comment section.
The Texans started out a little sluggish, but they quickly shook off the cobwebs and got to work, scoring the last 41 points of the contest to defeat Southeastern Oklahoma, 51-10 (Boxscore).
To read more about the Texans' victory, see the story on TarletonSports.com.
The offense and defense were both very "vanilla" in the playcalling, but that is to be expected in the first game of the season. The video will be posted online tomorrow via the Tarleton Ticket if you want to see the game. It will be in the archive section.
Well, the first game is under our belts, and for the seventh time this decade, the Texans won their opening contest. Way to go Texans!
Now, it's on to volleyball as the TexAnns travel to San Antonio for a tournament this weekend. Cross Country runs Friday as well.
School is here. Fall sports are here. Ready or not, it's all here, and when it comes to Tarleton athletics information, you will be able to find it here or here.
Way to go Texans. You started off on a winning note, now let's keep it going in that direction. Not just for football, but for all our teams in 2008-09.
Go Texans and TexAnns!
Tell us what you thought about the game in the comment section.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
It's Here!
The countdown is on for 7 p.m. tonight... yes, I am posting this at 12:25 a.m. Thursday morning, and I have been working on football things, gamenotes for the games along with the roster and other things on the web. Man, things really sneek up on ya, so here it is. Now is the time!
Football season is here, and the Texans are ranked in only one preseason poll. The Sporting News has the Texans at No. 25, but the D2Football.com poll and the American Football Coaches Association poll have left the Texans out of the preseason honors.
Maybe they forget the Texans went 9-2 last season and just barely missed the playoffs, although an arguement could be made that they should have gone over Mesa State. Maybe they forget Tarleton returns one of the most high-powered offense not just in the LSC, but in the nation.
Of course, they do know the Texans lost nine starters on defense, but they don't know about the very talented players lining up on the defensive side of the ball for the purple and white.
And that is OK... all will know soon enough. This should be a great year, and perhaps by the end of it, they will wonder what the rest of us have been wondering... "Why weren't the Texans in the national polls at the beginning of the season?"
Well... back to getting ready for the big night!... Hope to see you out supporting the Texans in the season opener. If you can't make it... listen online at kstvfm.com and/or watch it on the Tarleton Ticket.
And watch here for updates during the game, too!
Go Texans!
Football season is here, and the Texans are ranked in only one preseason poll. The Sporting News has the Texans at No. 25, but the D2Football.com poll and the American Football Coaches Association poll have left the Texans out of the preseason honors.
Maybe they forget the Texans went 9-2 last season and just barely missed the playoffs, although an arguement could be made that they should have gone over Mesa State. Maybe they forget Tarleton returns one of the most high-powered offense not just in the LSC, but in the nation.
Of course, they do know the Texans lost nine starters on defense, but they don't know about the very talented players lining up on the defensive side of the ball for the purple and white.
And that is OK... all will know soon enough. This should be a great year, and perhaps by the end of it, they will wonder what the rest of us have been wondering... "Why weren't the Texans in the national polls at the beginning of the season?"
Well... back to getting ready for the big night!... Hope to see you out supporting the Texans in the season opener. If you can't make it... listen online at kstvfm.com and/or watch it on the Tarleton Ticket.
And watch here for updates during the game, too!
Go Texans!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Purple/White Scrimmage
Between 100-200 fans watched as the 2008 Texans took the field for the annual Purple/White Scrimmage Thursday night.
The weather was good (which was rare for a scrimmage since most of them in the past four years have been fighting weather).
The play was good as well as most of the first and second team were on the purple team facing the rest of the squad on the white team. The first team offense drove and scored the first two times they touched the ball, and the defense had a great night as they are still trying to find the right chemistry to battle opponents this fall.
The team looked good to me, of course, there was still a lot of raw moments in the squad's first "live" action. The two quarters were nice to see... and it made me even more hungry for football.
Of course, it will be here before we know, and the coaching staff is glad to have a few more days of prep.
For more on the coaches thoughts and pics from the scrimmage, see the Tarleton football training camp page.
If you saw the scrimmage... tell us what you thought by posting in the comments section.
The weather was good (which was rare for a scrimmage since most of them in the past four years have been fighting weather).
The play was good as well as most of the first and second team were on the purple team facing the rest of the squad on the white team. The first team offense drove and scored the first two times they touched the ball, and the defense had a great night as they are still trying to find the right chemistry to battle opponents this fall.
The team looked good to me, of course, there was still a lot of raw moments in the squad's first "live" action. The two quarters were nice to see... and it made me even more hungry for football.
Of course, it will be here before we know, and the coaching staff is glad to have a few more days of prep.
For more on the coaches thoughts and pics from the scrimmage, see the Tarleton football training camp page.
If you saw the scrimmage... tell us what you thought by posting in the comments section.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Purple/White Scrimmage - Thursday
Man... where does the time go?
We have been busy working on finishing the media guide with all of the new faces and improving the guide for the media and recruiting. Hopefully, it will be up on the web at the beginning of next week at the latest, as well as the roster and two-deep. I looked up this afternoon, and wow, what do ya know, it's Wednesday, and I haven't put anything up... I deeply apologize.
Now, onto Thursday night.
The annual Purple/White Scrimmage is set for 7:30 p.m. We will offer it via video for FREE as a preview of the Tarleton Ticket. During the season, fans can purchase the Tarleton Ticket to watch home football games and select road games. For more information, go to the Tarleton Ticket at www.TarletonSports.com. During the season, fans will be able to see the video and hear an audio simulcast; however, tomorrow night's scrimmage will be video only.
Head Coach Sam McElroy said the Texans will play two full quarters.
"We will try to get as many live game situations in as possible tomorrow night," McElroy said. "We have two good weeks of practice, but now we are down to crunch time. The scrimmage will help us separate the players, and we are looking forward to see how the guys respond."
If you can come to the scrimmage, it is free and open to the public. Fans will have a chance to see what the 2008 Texans offer. A lot of people aren't giving Tarleton much of a chance to compete with Abilene Christian and West Texas A&M (more on that in another post), but tomorrow, you should see what those people don't if you get to come to the scrimmage. Though it will only be a slim look at the Texans, it should be a good one.
Hope to see you there!
We have been busy working on finishing the media guide with all of the new faces and improving the guide for the media and recruiting. Hopefully, it will be up on the web at the beginning of next week at the latest, as well as the roster and two-deep. I looked up this afternoon, and wow, what do ya know, it's Wednesday, and I haven't put anything up... I deeply apologize.
Now, onto Thursday night.
The annual Purple/White Scrimmage is set for 7:30 p.m. We will offer it via video for FREE as a preview of the Tarleton Ticket. During the season, fans can purchase the Tarleton Ticket to watch home football games and select road games. For more information, go to the Tarleton Ticket at www.TarletonSports.com. During the season, fans will be able to see the video and hear an audio simulcast; however, tomorrow night's scrimmage will be video only.
Head Coach Sam McElroy said the Texans will play two full quarters.
"We will try to get as many live game situations in as possible tomorrow night," McElroy said. "We have two good weeks of practice, but now we are down to crunch time. The scrimmage will help us separate the players, and we are looking forward to see how the guys respond."
If you can come to the scrimmage, it is free and open to the public. Fans will have a chance to see what the 2008 Texans offer. A lot of people aren't giving Tarleton much of a chance to compete with Abilene Christian and West Texas A&M (more on that in another post), but tomorrow, you should see what those people don't if you get to come to the scrimmage. Though it will only be a slim look at the Texans, it should be a good one.
Hope to see you there!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Family
On Sunday, the Texan football team will go about business as usual, but it will be missing a key figure during practice.
"Guys, you know I hate not being with you, but I tomorrow I am going to do right by my daughter," said emotional fourth-year head coach Sam McElroy after Saturday's scrimmage. "I have always told her that I would be at her next dance recital or next event, but there are no more of those, and when she asked if I'd take her to college, I couldn't tell her, 'No.'"
McElroy, and the rest of the coaching staff, often refer to the team and program as a big family. And it was never more apparent as the man at the helm of the Texans fought back tears. Is was evident because it was the players confirming their leader's choice.
"Yeah Coach." "Way to go coach." "That's right." "Love ya coach." "Do it coach."
Those were just a few of the quotes heard coming from the players who had taken a knee.
They have been through the motions for a week, so they know when and where to go for practice and what to do once they get there. There will be one of them missing on Sunday in physicality, but they players will have him them in their heads and hearts.
And it won't just be mom and dad delivering a daughter to Texas Tech on Sunday, though that is all she may see and hug at the time. There will be about 100 other people there, too, supporting both daughter, mom and dad.
After all, that is what family is all about.
*Note, the players got the day off to prepare for the last week of camp.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Making me even more hungry...
After watching the scrimmage today, it just makes me more hungry for some football.
This morning, everyone sat around and waited for the lightning detector to let us on the field, but it wasn't to be. There is something about us and scrimmages and weather. However, we got the scrimmage in this afternoon, and it went well.
Standing on the sidelines and taking pictures made me ready to do so during a game. Unfortunately, I don't get to stand on the sidelines at home since I have to be in the pressbox doing stats and media relations. Of course, our first two games are at home, and I am glad for that as well.
What I do look forward to is seeing some football being played on our field. Today the guys were hungry for some game action, too. I heard a lot of whooping and hollering, supporting each other like a family. And that is what is stressed each and every day by the coaching staff.
If you didn't make the scrimmage today, you missed some very nice plays on both offense and defense. There were a few miscues, but nothing that can't be fixed.
I am excited about watching the 2008 Texans every Saturday, and I hope you are as well.
Go here to see pictures of today's scrimmage, and don't worry, the real thing is just 12 days away!
This morning, everyone sat around and waited for the lightning detector to let us on the field, but it wasn't to be. There is something about us and scrimmages and weather. However, we got the scrimmage in this afternoon, and it went well.
Standing on the sidelines and taking pictures made me ready to do so during a game. Unfortunately, I don't get to stand on the sidelines at home since I have to be in the pressbox doing stats and media relations. Of course, our first two games are at home, and I am glad for that as well.
What I do look forward to is seeing some football being played on our field. Today the guys were hungry for some game action, too. I heard a lot of whooping and hollering, supporting each other like a family. And that is what is stressed each and every day by the coaching staff.
If you didn't make the scrimmage today, you missed some very nice plays on both offense and defense. There were a few miscues, but nothing that can't be fixed.
I am excited about watching the 2008 Texans every Saturday, and I hope you are as well.
Go here to see pictures of today's scrimmage, and don't worry, the real thing is just 12 days away!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Scrimmage
For the first time we will get to see what we have in purple and white. Hopefully, it will look as good on field as it does on paper. The team will start stretching around 10 before playing a "game" - a.k.a. scrimmage.
I'll make sure lots of pictures get posted, as well as interviews.
Anything you want to see or read or have a question for a coach and/or player? Post it in the comments section, or email it to tarletonsid@yahoo.com.
*Note* - The scrimmage was pushed back to 4 p.m. due to the lightning in the area... no rain at the time, but still couldn't get on the field. Let's hope 4 p.m. is a GO!
I'll make sure lots of pictures get posted, as well as interviews.
Anything you want to see or read or have a question for a coach and/or player? Post it in the comments section, or email it to tarletonsid@yahoo.com.
*Note* - The scrimmage was pushed back to 4 p.m. due to the lightning in the area... no rain at the time, but still couldn't get on the field. Let's hope 4 p.m. is a GO!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
STRIKE!
Apparently, there was a lot of smack talking leading up to the team bowling activity. Offense vs. Defense. Not only do they try to prove themselves on the field against each other, now they had the added pressure of using a round ball to knock down some pins some 60 feet away from the foul line, that's two first downs.
And who do you think won? Perhaps the team used to gaining 20 yards? Or the team used to
knocking things down?
The answer: the team that had a player who brought his own bowling ball, bag and shoes: Devin Livingston. The offense won by more the 1,000 pins. Yes, that's right, 1,000 pins. Whoa! That's, dare I say it, an old-fashioned whippin'!
Defensive coordinator Cary Fowler was overheard saying his squad should get to play the offense in dominoes. I asked, "If they called it Gutterball, would the defense have one?" A large smile gave the answer.
The offense gets a prize (if I remember right last year, they got to watch the defense run after practice, but I could be wrong - it has been a while sense then). I'll let you know what the offense gets to enjoy.
Hopefully, the offense will be as successful on the football field this year in moving the ball 20 yards at a time and outscoring their opponents by such big margins. Of course, here's to hoping the defense can fill the gutters presented to them by opposing offenses as well.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Mastermind...
The Texans are staying busy during workouts and the 2008 Training Camp. Last night, the team took time out to have some fun and went bowling. The offense vs. the defense, and I have yet to hear the outcome and the stakes, but as soon as I do, I will let you know.
Tarleton fans will see several new faces on the sidelines for the Texans this season, including both of the coordinators. Jason Munoz joins the staff this season as the offensive coordinator. This link provides you a chance to hear more from the new Tarleton assistant.
Find pics from today here.
We're getting closer...
Tarleton fans will see several new faces on the sidelines for the Texans this season, including both of the coordinators. Jason Munoz joins the staff this season as the offensive coordinator. This link provides you a chance to hear more from the new Tarleton assistant.
Find pics from today here.
We're getting closer...
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Kickoff Luncheon Review
The annual Texan Club Kickoff Luncheon was held Tuesday at City Limits as head coach Sam McElroy entertained the crowd of over 100 people.
“We are going to put a good product on the field for you to watch this year, and we definitely appreciate the support the Texan Club and the Stephenville community have given and continue to give to us,” McElroy said. “We are excited to begin the new season.”
Texan Club David Tomlinson opened the program welcoming the crowd before handing the reins to new Tarleton State University President Dr. Dominic Dottavio. The new president was also excited about the upcoming year.
“I’m proud to be president of this University,” Dottavio said. “The reception we have received here has been heartwarming.
“I love sports,” Dottavio said. “I love football and volleyball. I think athletics is an important part of the student experience. Athletics adds immeasurably to the learning of our students.”
See the rest of the story here.
Also, hear coach Sam McElroy's Kickoff Luncheon Talk.
“We are going to put a good product on the field for you to watch this year, and we definitely appreciate the support the Texan Club and the Stephenville community have given and continue to give to us,” McElroy said. “We are excited to begin the new season.”
Texan Club David Tomlinson opened the program welcoming the crowd before handing the reins to new Tarleton State University President Dr. Dominic Dottavio. The new president was also excited about the upcoming year.
“I’m proud to be president of this University,” Dottavio said. “The reception we have received here has been heartwarming.
“I love sports,” Dottavio said. “I love football and volleyball. I think athletics is an important part of the student experience. Athletics adds immeasurably to the learning of our students.”
See the rest of the story here.
Also, hear coach Sam McElroy's Kickoff Luncheon Talk.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Rain
I went to practice this morning to get a few pics to post on the Texan Training Camp web site, and as soon as I got to practice this morning... yep you guessed it by the title: RAIN.
Now, I have no problem of standing out in the rain, but my camera does. So the first few pics you will see are from standing under the training tent as practice carried on. If you look really hard, you can see the water falling down.
Coach McElroy was thankful for the rain, read more on his Coaches Corner article.
Tomorrow should separate the "men from the boys" as they say as the Texans don on full pads for the first time this season. We'll be there to bring you pics. The kickoff luncheon is tomorrow as well, and we'll give you coverage from the Texan Club event as well.
The rain was nice, I'll take more if it. The football is nice as well... I'll take more if it, too.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
INTENSITY
That's the word that comes to mind when I think about the Texan football practices going on this week.
"We have a lot to do out here over the next couple of weeks to prepare for the season, so we have to be focused throughout the entire practice," Grantham said. "We get out here and help and encourage each other. We have to be intense if we want to win."
From the coaches to the players, the intensity is well... intense.
"These guys have come out here the last three days and given everything they have had," said Tarleton head coach Sam McElroy. "They are out here flying around and executing. They are focusing and doing a good job of working hard."
From the faces on the coaches as they interact with players to the players themselves, one can tell they know kickoff is just 18 days away.
Starting quarterback Scott Grantham has embraced the team leader role and makes sure the offense is focused, even when it is not his turn to call the signals and touch the ball.
"We have a lot to do out here over the next couple of weeks to prepare for the season, so we have to be focused throughout the entire practice," Grantham said. "We get out here and help and encourage each other. We have to be intense if we want to win."McElroy said the intensity should last throughout the season.
"We will work hard to keep the intensity througout the year," the fourth-year head coach said. "Of course, it will grow as we approach Aug. 28. We don't have the intensity we have just for show, it is because we really love this game and we really love these guys and want them to do well. We want to put them in the best position possible to be successful. I think it's good to have intentsity, and there is definitely no shortage of that around here."
Take a look at the photo album on the Training Camp web site to see some more intense pictures as well as pics from the rest of the day.
The dictionary defines intensity as a high degree of emotional excitement; great energy, strength, concentration; exhibiting a high degree of some quality or action... I would define it as Tarleton Football.
Texan Tidbit - The Texan donned shoulder pads for the first time on Sunday as the full squad practiced together for the first time. The freshman had been practicing for the last two days in the morning while the varsity was practicing in the afternoons. Today, they joined forces and had a good practice after the whole team attended services together this morning at Rocky Point Baptist Church.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Day Two... still hot, but they're not bothered
The weather is still hot on the Memorial Stadium turf, but the guys sure didn't seem to mind being out there and running each other. The energy and excitement is definitely unmeasurable. Lots of new faces to have to learn, but no problem, I'll take the challenge if it means we can keep the talent that lies behind the faces.
Head Coach Sam McElroy even kept conditioning at the end of practice exciting as he took to a three-point stance to "hike" the ball, sending the players sprinting down the field.
Tomorrow the team will move to the practice fields, so it should be a bit cooler on grass. Pads are just around the corner, and then we'll see what we really have underneath those purple helmets.
Check out the new interviews and pics on the Football Training Camp page.
19 days from kickoff... I can't wait.... can you? Tell us what you look forward to this fall.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Texans on camera
Here is just a small video excerpt about the first day of practice.
And don't forget to check out the daily interviews, pictures and stories on the 2008 Training Camp web page.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Football reports Thursday
Ready or not, and most everyone I have talked to is, football is here!
There is lots of excitement around the Tarleton Field House on the south side of Memorial Stadium in Stephenville today as the football players checked into Crockett Hall this afternoon.
The summer has flown by, but head coach Sam McElroy and his staff welcomed around 100 student-athletes to Training Camp today. There were a lot of old faces, especially on the offensive side of the ball. And there were a lot of new faces, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Look forward to two players contributing to the student-athlete blog during fall camp and then, hopefully, they will continue to do so throughout the season.
Tarleton Tales...a new blog for Texans and TexAnns
Welcome to the new blog for Tarleton State University Athletics.
We are moving into a new era of communication as we open Tarleton Tales, a blog for Tarleton athletics.
We want to use the opportunity to give you more information that is not just your average press release.
Fans will be able to read the information and different perspectives from student-athletes and coaches, as well as sports information director Joey Roberts and assistant sports information director Dameon Myres.
Please don't hesitate to leave comments and get discussions going between the fans as well. If you have any questions or ideas, please leave those in the comments as well.
We look forward to a great season, and we look forward to your support. Go Texans and TexAnns!
We are moving into a new era of communication as we open Tarleton Tales, a blog for Tarleton athletics.
We want to use the opportunity to give you more information that is not just your average press release.
Fans will be able to read the information and different perspectives from student-athletes and coaches, as well as sports information director Joey Roberts and assistant sports information director Dameon Myres.
Please don't hesitate to leave comments and get discussions going between the fans as well. If you have any questions or ideas, please leave those in the comments as well.
We look forward to a great season, and we look forward to your support. Go Texans and TexAnns!
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