Tarleton State Wants to Be the Next School to Jump to the FBS

Tarleton State University, located in Stephenville, Texas, has set its sights on becoming the next school to transition from Division II to Division I. Currently competing in the lower Division I level of the FCS, the school aims to move up to the prestigious FBS level within the next five years.

The institution, led by President James Hurley since 2019, has undergone a significant investment in facilities, spending $1.5 billion on campus development since 2019, with $200 million dedicated to athletics. This includes a $30 million renovation of Memorial Stadium, which now seats 24,000 spectators.

Hurley, who has leadership experience from both West Virginia and Texas Tech, believes the school has the resources and facilities needed to compete at the FBS level. Success at the Division I level, including securing the WAC Commissioner’s Cup and winning eight conference championships in just six years, underscores the university's capabilities.

While making the jump to FBS is an expensive proposition requiring an NCAA transition fee and conference invitation, Tarleton State University is confident in its prospects. The school's location in Texas, a hotbed for high school and college football, and the recent introduction of name, image, and likeness deals also position it favorably for such a transition.