Bears host No. 3 Tarleton in UAC opener at Estes Stadium

CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas steps into its most challenging moment of the early season hosting third-ranked Tarleton State in Saturday’s United Athletic Conference opener.

Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Estes Stadium, streamed on ESPN+ and carried on local radio.

The Bears enter at 1-1 following a decisive 41-17 win over Arkansas–Pine Bluff. The Texans are 3-0, including an overtime victory at Army and a pair of convincing wins over Portland State and Mississippi Valley State.

Tarleton has taken all three previous meetings against UCA, and the Bears know the test ahead carries weight beyond just one game.

Bears showing balance on offense

Quarterback Luther Richesson has been central to UCA’s offense, combining efficiency in the air with mobility on the ground.

Against UAPB, he rushed for 82 yards and a touchdown while completing 18 of 25 passes for 283 yards and three scores. Wideouts Malachi Henry, Ty Durham, and Tyrell Pollard all found the end zone, highlighting a balanced passing attack.

Running back Landen Chambers added 106 rushing yards and a touchdown, providing the Bears with a steady ground presence.

That one-two punch will be vital against a Tarleton defense that has allowed just three touchdowns all season.

On defense, UCA held UAPB to 44 rushing yards, with Ny’len Jones leading with seven tackles. Gary Lewis, Duncan Parham, and Jakobe Shell each recorded sacks, signaling a unit capable of applying pressure.

Texans bring explosive production

Tarleton State has built its 3-0 start behind offensive balance and defensive consistency.

Senior quarterback Victor Gabalis has thrown for 599 yards and eight touchdowns. Running back Tre Page III leads the ground game with 289 yards and three scores.

The receiving corps is led by Cody Jackson and Trevon West, each tallying 149 yards, giving Gabalis reliable downfield options.

On defense, linebackers Bam Smith and A.J. Owens have anchored a group that has held opponents to 310.7 yards per game.

With an average of 43.7 points per contest, the Texans have shown they can dictate tempo quickly. That will test UCA’s ability to match possessions and avoid turnovers.

Stakes for UCA

The game is about more than records. It marks UCA’s entry into the UAC schedule and offers a chance to make a statement. Head coach Nathan Brown’s team finished 6-6 overall and 3-5 in league play last year. Beating a top-five opponent would reset expectations and provide early momentum.

For UCA, protecting home turf and breaking Tarleton’s dominance in the series remain at the forefront. Falling behind early would play into the Texans’ style, but an efficient start could tilt the game’s rhythm.

Matchups to watch

Richesson’s decisions against Tarleton’s linebackers will shape the offense’s efficiency. Chambers and the ground attack must keep the defense honest, while UCA’s defensive front aims to limit Page and pressure Gabalis.

Special teams could also play a role. Field position and turnovers may determine whether UCA keeps pace with a team that thrives on creating separation.

Season context

UCA has set its 2025 goals on improving consistency in close games and establishing itself among UAC contenders. With returning playmakers like Henry and Dillon Williams, the Bears have the tools to contend but must prove they can execute against elite opposition.

The conference slate offers no shortcuts, and this opener will reveal whether UCA can take a step forward. Fans at Estes Stadium will see if the Bears’ mix of experience and energy can translate into results against a proven opponent.

3 Key Takeaways

• UCA’s offensive balance behind Richesson and Chambers will be tested against Tarleton’s disciplined defense.

• Tarleton State’s fast start reflects an offense averaging nearly 44 points per game and a defense that has been stingy.

• A win for UCA would mark a breakthrough in the series and set the tone for the Bears’ 2025 UAC campaign.