17 Aug 2017 UCA: Bears aim for SLC title

Conference: Southland Conference
Coach: Steve Campbell
’16 Record: 10-3

The Central Arkansas Bears gave fans a year to remember in 2016. UCA finished second in the Southland Conference and put up 24 points in the fourth quarter to come from behind to beat Illinois State in the first round of the FCS playoffs.

“The Bears got a good taste of what the playoffs were like and want more,” said Monty Rowell, Bears radio sideline reporter. This team is oh so close to making a deep run into the post season.”

With experience at the skill positions and a nearly intact offensive line, the explosive Bears offense should keep putting up big numbers this fall.

Senior Hayden Hildebrand returns at quarterback after passing for more than 3,000 yards as a junior. Sophomore Carlos Blackman put up valuable yards last fall at running back. Seniors Brandon Cox and Roman Gordon return to lead a talented and relatively inexperienced group of receivers. Four starters return upfront on the offensive line: Cade Camp (tackle), Stockton Mallett (guard), John Cook (tackle) and former 501 Football Team honoree Gilberto Garcia (guard).

“Hildebrand, who has started many games over the past three years, will have help at running back with the return of sophomores Carlos Blackman and Keshawn Ledet,” Rowell said. “Expect help as well from senior Jarvis Cooper and redshirt freshman Kierre Crossley.”

UCA lost some big time production on the defensive line to graduation. Junior Chris Terrell returns at defensive end, and Conway High standout Austin Norris projects to start at a tackle after redshirting in 2016. Three of UCA’s four linebacker spots are filled by returning starters: seniors George Odum and Chris Chambers and junior James Graves. The secondary has a good mix of upperclassmen and youth with seniors Tre Smith (corner), Jaylon Lofton (corner) and Tavion Garrison (safety) and sophomore returning starter Juan Jackson.

“Defensively, Odom could have a big year, but the line will be somewhat inexperienced,” Rowell said. “Look for senior Javian Williams, Austin Norris and Eric Jackson to help.”

Former Conway Wampus Cat Matt Cummins is back at kicker.