Tarleton State Kicks Off 2024 Season with Nailbiter Victory

Derrell Kelley III poses after scoring Tarleton State's first touchdown of the season Saturday. Photo from Tarleton Football/X

College football is finally back, and the 21st-ranked Tarleton State Texans were one of a select few Division One schools to kick the 2024 season off in Week Zero.

The Texans’ defense showed out in the first half, forcing 4 turnovers, including a scoop and score by Kasyus Kurns to help Tarleton State jump out to a 26-7 halftime lead. Kurns finished the day with 6 tackles, one forced fumble and two recovered fumbles.

Running back Kayvon Britten had a stellar game for Tarleton State, rushing for 164 yards in the Texans’ 26-23 win. Britten added 7 receiving yards on one catch.

Aside from Britten’s success, the Texans’ offense wasn’t able to get much going in the second half, as starting quarterback Victor Gabalis left the game with an upper body injury and was replaced with Jaden Pete, who was just 1 for 8 passing for 4 yards.

Tarleton State was outscored 16-0 in the second half, but held on for a win. The Texans take on Baylor next Saturday in Waco. Kickoff is set for 6 pm.