Tarleton State Triumphs in Season Opener Against McNeese After First-Half Dominance
As the 2024 college football season commenced, all eyes were on the Week 0 showdown between McNeese (0-0) and Tarleton State (0-0), two teams on vastly different trajectories. McNeese, once a powerhouse in the Southland Conference, hit rock bottom in 2023, suffering their first winless season since the FCS was officially recognized in 1978. With nowhere to go but up, the Cowboys entered the new season with a sense of determination, hoping to rebuild under third-year head coach Gary Goff.
In stark contrast, Tarleton State, coming off an impressive 8-3 run last fall, appeared ready to leave their mark on the FCS. Now a full-fledged member of the division, the Texans had playoffs and a UAC title within their grasp. With ESPN cameras capturing every moment, Tarleton aimed to solidify its status as a rising power in its season opener.
Despite McNeese's recent struggles, the program remained committed to Goff, who entered the season with a 4-17 record since taking the helm in 2022. Goff, who had a successful tenure at Valdosta State with a 22-3 record and two Gulf Star Conference titles, faced a significant challenge in restoring McNeese's former glory.
On the opposite sideline, TSU's head coach Todd Whitten, in his 15th year and second stint with the program, brought a wealth of experience. Whitten had guided Tarleton through some of its best years, including three Lone Star titles at the DII level, and had led the Texans to a 20-13 record since their transition to the FCS.
Pre-Game: Setting the Stage
McNeese’s offense was set to be led by a new face, senior quarterback Clifton McDowell, who transferred from Montana after leading the Grizzlies to an FCS championship berth last year. McDowell’s dual-threat ability, having thrown for over 2,000 yards and 13 touchdowns while rushing for another 753 yards in 2023, was expected to be a game-changer for the Cowboys.
Tarleton State's defense, however, was no pushover. Despite losing their top two tacklers from the previous season, the Texans bolstered their linebacker corps with the additions of Nijel McGriff and R.J. Chakolis, both experienced FBS players. The secondary, led by junior DBs Blake Smith and Kasyus Kurns, was prepared to challenge McNeese's receiving corps, including returner Makhi Paris and newcomer Matthew McCallister.
The Texans’ offense was equally formidable, with junior quarterback Victor Gabalis leading the charge after a stellar 2023 season in which he threw for 2,942 yards and 18 touchdowns. Alongside Gabalis was one of the nation’s top running backs, Kayvon Britten, who rushed for 1,150 yards and 16 touchdowns last year, earning a spot on the Walter Payton Award watchlist.
On defense, McNeese relied heavily on linebacker Micah Davey, who led the FCS with 153 tackles in 2023. Davey, along with the Cowboys' defensive line led by senior DE Earnest Grayson III, would be tasked with containing Tarleton's potent offense.
In-Game: A Tale of Two Halves
As the game unfolded, Tarleton State quickly demonstrated why they were considered a rising power in the FCS. The Texans dominated the first half, jumping to a commanding 26-7 lead by halftime. Gabalis, as expected, played a pivotal role, completing 11 of 18 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown. He connected with Keylan Johnson for a 26-yard touchdown pass, adding to Tarleton’s momentum.
The Texans also capitalized on McNeese’s mistakes, with Kasyus Kurns recovering two fumbles, one of which he returned 31 yards for a touchdown. Running back Derrel Kelley III added a short rushing touchdown, further extending Tarleton’s lead.
Despite the Cowboys' struggles, McNeese refused to back down. Senior running back D’Angelo Durham, who led the Cowboys with 509 rushing yards last year, scored on a 7-yard run early in the fourth quarter, cutting Tarleton’s lead to 26-14. Then, with just minutes left in the game, McDowell connected with McCallister for an 80-yard touchdown pass, bringing the Cowboys within three points at 26-23.
With momentum on their side, McNeese had one final chance to complete the comeback. Taking possession at their own 11-yard line with just under three minutes remaining, McDowell led a determined drive, completing passes of 23 and 22 yards while scrambling for another 11 yards. The Cowboys marched down to Tarleton’s 27-yard line, setting up a potential game-winning field goal. However, in a heartbreaking finish, kicker Tyler Larco missed a 44-yard field goal attempt, sealing Tarleton State’s 26-23 victory.
Post-Game: Reflections and What’s Next
Despite being outgained 445 yards to 339, the Texans' ability to capitalize on McNeese’s four turnovers proved decisive. Tarleton State, ranked No. 21 in the FCS, celebrated its hard-fought victory as they began their first season eligible for the FCS playoffs after completing their reclassification period.
For McNeese, the game showcased both their potential and the challenges that lie ahead. While the Cowboys showed resilience in their comeback attempt, the loss highlighted areas that need improvement, particularly in protecting the football and finishing drives.
As both teams move forward, Tarleton State will look to build on their early success, while McNeese aims to regroup and continue their climb back to relevance in the FCS.
