The ACU football program has disregarded the conventional methods of advertising for their program and switched to a new method, emphasizing three mammals:  two Bears and one Bengal – and rightfully so.

Three former Wildcats and current NFL players have made their presence known around the league, bringing about unparalleled publicity for Abilene Christian University.

The two Bears, Danieal Manning and Johnny Knox are on a Chicago team that is atop the NFC North, and are a big part of the team’s success.

Knox, a fifth-round draft pick, has quickly made his presence known around the league. Perceived as one of the fastest players in the game and the epitome for a “home run-threat receiver”, he has become a steady part of the Bears’ offense. The 23-year old has also become quarterback Jay Cutler’s number one receiver in recent weeks, hauling in his first receiving touchdown of the year last Sunday against the Washington Redskins. Knox is only 50 receiving yards shy of surpassing his season total last year with eight games left this year.

Edmund Gates, a current ACU wide receiver and potential NFL prospect, uses Knox as an example and motivation for someone who has made it to the professional level and succeeded.

“Johnny is a great role model and example for me. It motivates me knowing that he worked out in the same weight room as I do and played on the same field too,” Gates said.

Danieal Manning is in his fifth year with the Bears organization and has been a valuable presence as well. Manning is Chicago’s primary return man and has gained over 400 yards up to this point. Defensively, Manning is a steady contributor and recorded his first interception last week.

Bernard Scott, the Bengal, is having a solid year as well. The second year player has accumulated over 400 total yards and is seeing a respectable amount of playing time for the Bengals.

ACU Head Football Coach Chris Thomsen sees a common denominator in all three of his former player’s success – one that was strengthened and displayed while they were players here.

“All three of those guys have earned everything they have accomplished. They are all extremely hard workers and are committed to what they do. The roots of being successful in all things come from hard work and dedication,” Thomsen said.

Those three are a pretty good form of advertisement for ACU football and examples of the type of program present here at ACU.