The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros entered their first NCAA Division I‑FCS campaign with a 9‑3 record, a perfect 7‑0 mark at Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium, and a preseason presence that caught the attention of the American Football Coaches Association.
Preseason Recognition
In the 2026 AFCA FCS Coaches Poll the Vaqueros earned nine votes, tying them for the 10th‑most among teams that did not crack the top 25, a testament to the program’s rapid ascent.
Trials on the Road
All three defeats came away from home against playoff‑bound opponents, including a loss to No. 13 Stephen F. Austin, a setback at No. 20 Southeastern Louisiana, and a narrow defeat at No. 21 Lamar.
Despite those road tests, the team finished the season unbeaten on its own turf, a feat that underscored the home‑field advantage cultivated in Edinburg.
Conference Landscape
Other Southland Conference members also appeared in the poll, with UIW and McNeese each garnering votes, while Central Arkansas received a single vote, highlighting the league’s competitive depth.
The early accolades signal that the Vaqueros are poised to become a regular contender, and the program’s growth will be watched closely as it builds on its inaugural success.