Coming off the program's first ever Lone Star Conference Championship, the UT Permian Basin football team has been hard at work this spring getting ready for their upcoming fall season.  

"Spring ball has been great," said Head Football Coach Kris McCullough. "Obviously, you lose a couple of big-time leaders so it's really about developing new leaders and continuing to make sure your team is working together."  

The Falcons lost a couple captains and starters from last year's team, however McCullough said he feels good about the direction this new group is headed. "We have a ton of talent that equals last years, if not better, so we just have to continue to develop the young guys." 

Falcons soaring on Offense 

On the offensive side of the ball this spring, the Falcons have not been complacent. The players have been working hard to make sure they are improving. 

"Offensively, quarterback Dylan Graham is our starter and has had a phenomenal spring," said McCullough. "Jeremiah Cooley, who was the Lone Star receiver of the year has gotten even better, which is crazy to think. He should be a top five player in Division II football next year." 

Coach McCullough also noted that on the offensive line Tristan Willis, Ramon Diaz, Max Johnson, and tight end Brock Johnson, have done a phenomenal job and continue to get better day-by-day. 

Defense dominating on all fronts 

Similar to the offense, the Falcons defense looks strong.  They should have no problem duplicating the success they had last year. 

"Our defensive line is phenomenal. It's tough to run the ball on them. The size and strength up front is different," said McCullough. "At linebacker Jalon Rocquemore started every game last year and has been a tremendous leader. Tristan Exline is one of the better linebackers I've ever coached. I've been lucky to coach three or four All-Americans, but he may be the best one yet, so seeing him develop has been fun." 

The defensive backs will also be a threat next season, as they have a ton of experience and have been working on getting use to playing together this spring.  

Spring ball coming to an end 

The Falcons will wrap up their spring season with their annual spring game on Saturday, March 30 at 11 a.m. Heading into the game Coach McCullough has high expectations for his players. 

"Obviously, I don't want to see a ton of missed tackles. I think you look at some of the games where our defense did struggle, which wasn't much, it was because of missed tackles. So, I want to see great tackling and execution up front on both sides," said McCullough. "I want the offensive line to move bodies and run the ball. But, on the defensive line you don't want that to happen, so you're not going to be happy with one of the results. I just hope they are physical and that they are all having fun and staying together."  

The game is FREE and open to the community. Seating is limited so guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs!  

 Only 155 days left until the Falcons take the field against Western New Mexico.