Tarleton State's football program has once again secured a spot among the nation's elite, landing at No.5 in the 2026 Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25. The ranking underscores a remarkable streak of consistency that has become a hallmark of the Texans' identity.
A Record of Consistency
The No.5 placement marks the team's 27th consecutive appearance in the national polls, dating back to the preseason survey in 2024. Just a season ago the Texans finished No.6 in both the Stats Perform Top 25 and the AFCA FCS Coaches Poll, a testament to their steady upward trajectory.
During the 2025 campaign the squad rose as high as No.2 at one point, showcasing the potential that has now been translated into preseason expectations. Their 12‑2 overall record and 7‑1 mark in United Athletic Conference play also carried them to the FCS Playoffs Quarterfinals in their second year of Division I postseason eligibility.
Conference Context and National Landscape
Tarleton State stands as the highest‑ranked team from the United Athletic Conference, with Abilene Christian at No.15 and Austin Peay at No.17. The conference's influence is evident as seven of the eight teams that have earned top‑25 recognition over the past two seasons remain in the 2026 poll, including Illinois State, Montana, Montana State, South Dakota State and UC Davis.
Montana State leads the preseason poll with 1,425 points, followed by Montana (1,328), South Dakota State (1,266), Illinois State (1,231) and Tarleton State (1,100). The Texans' placement reflects both their own merits and the competitive depth of the league.
Recruiting Momentum
Adding to the optimism, Tarleton State will debut its No.1 ranked National Signing Day class for the upcoming season. The incoming recruiting haul is expected to reinforce the roster that already demonstrated the ability to compete with the nation's best, positioning the program for continued ascent.