Top 25 Showdown Headlines ACU Homecoming Before Sell-Out Crowd

On November 1, 2025, Abilene Christian University (ACU) will host a highly anticipated football game against rival Tarleton State during Homecoming weekend. Ranked No. 24, ACU holds a record of 4-4 overall and 3-1 in conference play, while Tarleton State stands at 9-0 and is ranked No. 2 nationally.

ACU vs. Tarleton State: A Rivalry Renewed

This matchup is significant for both teams as they vie for the United Athletic Conference (UAC) title. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. at Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium in Abilene, Texas. The game, presented by Greater Texas Ford Dealers, is expected to attract a sellout crowd, marking it the third in the stadium’s history.

• The first two sellouts occurred during the stadium’s inaugural year in 2017.
• ACU previously defeated Tarleton State 35-31 in a thrilling contest for the UAC championship in 2024.

Current Season Standings

Both teams are again nationally ranked, with Tarleton State entering the game seeking at least a share of the conference title. A victory for ACU, however, could propel the Wildcats to the top of the standings with three league games remaining.

Key Statistics

Tarleton State has shown remarkable performance this season, leading in several team statistics:

• Third-best scoring offense in the FCS, averaging 45 points per game.
• Sixth-best scoring defense, allowing only 16 points per game.
• Impressive turnover margin of +24 with 28 takeaways and just four giveaways.

In contrast, ACU has excelled in its own metrics, holding the league’s best third-down conversion rate at 50%. They also maintain fewest penalties and penalty yards per game, averaging just five penalties for 41 yards.

Recent Performance

In their last game, ACU faced Southern Utah, where they lost 31-24. Despite gaining more yards than their opponent (430 to 289), they struggled with turnovers. ACU’s quarterback, Stone Earle, had a challenging outing, completing 17 of 23 passes for 225 yards but suffering three interceptions.

• Running back Jordon Vaughn achieved a career-high 124 rushing yards.
• ACU’s defense managed to hold Southern Utah’s top rusher for a time but ultimately conceded significant yardage.

Historical Context

ACU has a strong track record at home, winning seven consecutive games at Wildcat Stadium— the ninth-longest active winning streak in the FCS. Their last eight-game home winning streak dates back to 2007-2008.

Looking Ahead

A win against Tarleton State would not only place ACU in first place in the UAC but also mark their highest-ranked victory since August 27, 2009. Additionally, it would extend their winning streak against ranked teams at home and solidify their dominance during Homecoming.

This rivalry matchup promises excitement as the Wildcats aim for victory in front of a passionate home crowd, hoping to continue their winning tradition on Homecoming weekend.