The Valley rallies Vaqueros into historical game

Julian Salazar | Pulse

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Football Team kicked the ball off in their inaugural game Saturday with a remarkable win against Sul Ross State University.

The Vaquero Football season has been anticipated by the Rio Grande Valley since its official announcement in 2021.

12,726 fans were in attendance to witness the UTRGV Vaqueros win by a blowout of 66-0 against the Alpine Sul Ross State University Lobos.

Head Coach Travis Bush understands the team’s impact and the gameday experience on the Rio Grande Valley.

“It’s special for a lot of people, special for the Rio Grande Valley, but it’s special for these guys too,” Coach Bush said. “They represent a lot of people, but they were fired up, they were up for the challenge.”

Running Back Nathan Danney ball carrier fights for extra yards before being brought down near the end zone against Sul Ross State University on Saturday at the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium UTRGV Stadium. Logan Huizar/Pulse

It was also a historic night for Wide Receiver Xayvion Noland and Mission, Texas native Quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger, who were the players to score the first ever touchdown in Vaquero Football history.

It was the moment that the fans were waiting for that did not disappoint once it happened.

Quarterback Marburger said, “First in school history. I mean, it’s pretty crazy…I just thank God really for the opportunity and thank Coach Bush for just bringing me here.”

Quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger rolls out under pressure while looking downfield for an open receiver Saturday against Sul Ross State University on Saturday at the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium. Logan Huizar/Pulse

Noland shared the same sentiments regarding the historic night for the two of them.

“I’m happy for all the guys, you put a lot of work into this, so I’m just happy that we got that start.”

Kicker Troop O’Neal sends the ball through the uprights during first-half action against Sul Ross State University on Saturday at the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium UTRGV Stadium. Logan Huizar/Pulse

UTRGV fans showed their Vaquero pride by preparing their tailgating spots early in the day, some fans even prepared last night.

Communication sciences and disorders junior Rebecca Losoya said the experience of entering the stadium was overwhelming at first, but once she and her friends settled in, the atmosphere was electric.

“We’re literally eating it up so bad, we’re so good right now…it’s just a really good first experience for the first time,” Losoya said.

The next game for the Vaqueros will be against the Prairie View A&M Panthers at 6 p.m. Sept 6 at Blackshear Field Stadium.