Why Tarleton State is college football’s best-kept secret in era defined by NIL, transfers

Tarleton State University's football team has achieved significant success in its sixth season at the Division I level, boasting a 9-0 record and ranking second in the FCS national poll. Under the leadership of head coach Todd Whitten, who is in his third tenure with the team, the Texans have become the winningest team in Division I since 2018 with a .753 win percentage. The team is known for retaining players despite the challenges posed by the transfer portal era, with only three rotation players entering the portal recently, two of whom returned.

Whitten's approach focuses on building strong relationships with players, a strategy that has resulted in minimal player departures. The team includes key transfers like quarterback Victor Gabalis and wide receivers Peyton Kramer and Cody Jackson, who have significantly contributed to the Texans' top-ranking offense. Tarleton State's athletic program is also preparing for a potential future transition to the FBS level, having invested in facility upgrades and established a grassroots NIL fund to support athletes.

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