A New Chapter Rises in the Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley officially launched its NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision program in 2025, bringing college football back to the Rio Grande Valley after a decades-long absence. UTRGV was established in 2015 through the merger of the University of Texas–Pan American and the University of Texas–Brownsville, but this marks the first modern-era NCAA Division I FCS team for the school. The UT System Board of Regents approved the program in 2022, citing football’s potential to unify the region and raise UTRGV’s national profile. To support the launch, H-E-B Park was upgraded and renamed Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium, with home games rotating between Edinburg and Brownsville. The Vaqueros now compete in the Southland Conference, signaling a bold new era for sports in the Valley.
Dominance Early On and Key Performance Numbers
UTRGV opened its inaugural season with a statement, crushing Sul Ross State 66-0 in front of a sold-out crowd of more than 12,700 at Vackar Stadium. The Vaqueros followed up with a gritty 27-21 road win over Prairie View A&M and then an eye-popping 80-0 demolition of Langston. Their offense has been electric, racking up over 500 rushing yards and nearly 300 passing yards in the Langston game alone. Defensive playmakers have shone as well, led by Elijah Graham, who already owns multiple interceptions and even returned one for a touchdown in that Langston route. Through three games, Graham has tallied roughly 10 total tackles, proving that UTRGV’s defense can deliver impact plays as well as highlight-reel offense.
Key Personalities and What to Watch Moving Forward
Among the early standouts, defensive back Elijah Graham made history with the first defensive touchdown ever by a Vaquero. Quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger is a transfer from UTSA, adding veteran leadership and poise to the backfield. Local talents like Atzel Chavez Jr. and Jose Gonzalez-Vargas bring Valley pride to the roster. As Southland Conference play intensifies, these players will face seasoned FCS opponents eager to spoil UTRGV’s momentum. Early success has generated roaring home crowds and strong community support. Each game is now a regional celebration. More than just wins, this program represents identity, culture, and the shared excitement of football’s return to the Rio Grande Valley.
