The University of Central Arkansas hosts Texas-Rio Grande Valley Saturday at Estes Stadium in Conway for a 4 p.m. kickoff. This is the first meeting between the two programs and represents a critical opportunity for the Bears to break a four-game losing streak.
UCA has struggled on the road this season, falling in each of its first four away contests. The Bears are looking to establish home-field advantage and reverse the momentum of a difficult stretch away from Conway.
The most recent test came against FCS No. 1 ranked Tarleton State last Saturday. The game offered a glimpse of UCA’s potential. Central Arkansas tied the potent Texans 28-28 at the end of the third quarter but could not maintain the lead. Tarleton outscored UCA 21-7 in the final quarter to secure the 49-35 victory. The close call highlights the competitive level of play the Bears have shown, even in defeat.
Home has been a different story for UCA this year. The Bears’ last home game was Sept. 12, where they handled Division II Central Oklahoma 59-20. Running back Jalen Washington carried the offensive load in that contest, rushing for 202 yards and a touchdown on just 12 carries. That performance provides a benchmark for the offense to replicate on Saturday.
The coaching staff has emphasized the physical nature of the United Athletic Conference and the toll that consistent travel takes on a program. UCA head coach Nathan Brown noted that winning in this league away from home is difficult and that the Bears haven’t found the winning column in those road environments.
Brown discussed the team’s mindset leading into the contest. He pointed out the mental fatigue of the road trip and the importance of returning to the normal end-of-week routine associated with playing at home. He also highlighted the advantage of the Estes Stadium crowd.
Ticket information and game day logistics for the UCA
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
