Angelo State Football Selected First in LSC Preseason Poll

SAN ANGELO, TX — People expect great things again this season from the Angelo State Rams Football team. Announced on Thursday, July 27, the Rams were selected to repeat as Lone Star Conference champions in 2023, earning the top spot in the conference preseason poll. The poll is voted on by LSC head coaches, sports information directors, and media members.

Last season, Head Coach Jeff Girsch led the Rams to a 12-1 overall record, remaining undefeated in the regular season and claiming the Lone Star Conference Championship. Angelo State reached the NCAA Division II Championship quarterfinals for the second year in a row but fell to the Colorado School of Mines 42-24. Despite the loss, the Rams achieved one of the best years in program history.

The Rams enter 2023 as the favorites to repeat as LSC Champions. Angelo State totaled 241 points and 25 first-place votes. Only two out of the 27 votes placed went to other schools. Central Washington was selected to finish second overall in the conference poll, followed by Texas A&M-Kingsville at no. 3 and Midwestern State and West Texas A&M at no. 4 and no. 5, respectively.

Angelo State also has two players on the LSC Preseason Players to Watch List. Jr. Linebacker Eric Rascoe made the team on defense after he led the Rams with 69 tackles a season ago. Jr. Wideout Zorhan Rideaux made the team for offense after he hauled in 28 catches for 388 yards in 2022.

The Rams have an opportunity to make another run at the National Championship this season. There are some questions that remain, like who will replace Zach Bronkhorst at quarterback, but Girsch will have these young men ready to play.