2021 FCS Season Preview: Abilene Christian

Courtesy Reporter-News

Abilene Christian (1-5) struggled during an abbreviated fall season, dropping a game to D-II Angelo State, and playing three FBS opponents.

It is a disappointing trend for a program that cleared the .500 mark in 2018.

Quarterback Peyton Mansell emerged as a capable option under center, completing 62 percent of his passes for 1,237 yards in six games. Adam Dorrel added several high-profile transfers, including former Texas offensive lineman Reese Moore, Texas State running back Anthony Smith and linebacker John Brannon.

Impact Players

WR Kobe Clark: Had 26 catches for 362 yards and four touchdowns last fall.

RB Jermiah Dobbins: Had 42 carries for 222 yards and five touchdowns in six games a year ago.

DE Jordan Paup: ACU’s top returning pass-rusher with 27 tackles and 2.5 sacks.

Key Game: November 13 vs. Tarleton

Abilene Christian

HomeTime/ResultsAwayVenueMatch Day TV/Streaming Highlights
Gerald Ford Stadium
Dallas, TX - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -
Provost Umphrey Stadium
Beaumont, TX - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -
Roy Kidd Stadium
Richmond, KY - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -
Homer Bryce Stadium
Nacogdoches, TX - -
JSU Stadium
Jacksonville, AL - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -
Wildcat Stadium (Abilene Christian)
Abilene, TX - -

Worst Case: The many transfers Adam Dorrell are bringing in fail to come together, and by the time the Central Arkansas game rolls around, a reeling Wildcat team streaks to the bottom of the ASUN-WAC challenge.

Best Case: A feather-light out-of-conference schedule, including two sub-D-I’s and a non-conference tilt against Lamar, allow the team to come together and challenge Central Arkansas and Eastern Kentucky in back-to-back weeks.