The Wildcats are set to face the University of Northern Colorado Bears on the road this weekend, and they enter the matchup fresh off receiving the first Top 25 FCS recognition in their NCAA Div. I history.
After a strong start to the season, the 25th ranking and a solid performance against University of West Georgia last weekend could give them momentum to move to a 2-1 record.
Despite the unprecedented national ranking, offensive coordinator Rick Bowie said the Wildcats remain focused on their internal goals rather than outside noise.
“We have goals in this program, but being nationally ranked is not one of them,” Bowie said. “We focus on the things we think are more important within our program.”
ACU will head to Colorado after its 38-24 win over West Georgia, but that game brought to light some areas in need of improvement, particularly turnovers.
In that game, Maverick McIvor fumbled for a 4-yard sack on the 4-yard line, stripping away ACU’s likely score on that drive. Additionally, two kickoff returns were fumbled, one of which was recovered by the UWG with great field position.
“Turnovers are a big part of the game, and we didn’t do a good job protecting the ball, especially in key situations,” Bowie said. “We need to get that cleaned up, especially in the red zone.”
With a mix of experienced players and young talents stepping up, Bowie is committing to making the changes it needs to make to improve. Head coach Keith Patterson echoed Bowie’s opinion and emphasized the importance of attention to detail in practices leading up to the big game.
“It’s always about winning the next game,” Patterson said. “We’ve set clear goals for this team, but it ultimately comes down to execution on the field.”
Although ACU has left a lot of points on the field with turnovers, the offense still overall has been doing well. Getting credit for following Mike Leach’s air raid offensive style, Bowie said that the success has not come from the Wildcats creating anything new but instead adding their own special touch to the scheme.
Bowie referenced a common quote from his mother: “The key to good cooking is to buy good food and don’t mess it up.”
“Our offense is just seasoned differently based on personnel,” he said.
For ACU, what’s special about the team is the play of standout players like quarterback Maverick McIvor, wide receiver Blayne Taylor, and running backs Nehemiah Martinez and Isaiah Johnson. This chemistry on the field has been key to the Wildcats’ offensive success.
“Our offense is built to spread the ball around, and it’s about getting the ball to our playmakers,” Bowie said. “The beauty of our system is that it allows everyone to contribute, and we trust our guys to make plays.”
As the Wildcats prepare for Northern Colorado, ACU’s eyes are focused on securing a victory and getting their first away win of the season.
“You got to be road warriors,” Patterson said. “If you take care of business on the road and go undefeated at home, we will be a good football team.”
After falling to Texas Tech on the road by only one to begin their season, a win would push the Wildcats to a 2-1 record, setting the tone for the remainder of the season.
Coach Bowie’s message is clear: “We’ve got our sights set on getting better every week, and that starts with handling business this Saturday.”
