By Brian Ramsey | OBU Sports Information

WACO, Texas — The American Football Coaches Association has announced its preseason top 25 poll for NCAA Division II with the Ouachita Baptist University Tigers coming in at No. 19.

AFCA PRESEASON TOP 25 RELEASE: https://bit.ly/3Cdtm7Y

The Tigers have now been ranked by the AFCA for 39 consecutive polls, including every week in the 2018, 2019, and 2021 seasons, and now the preseason poll for the 2022 season.

Ouachita finished the 2021 season ranked No. 23 with a final 9-2 record. It was the program’s 13th consecutive winning season. 14 all-conference performers return from last year’s squad, including All-America selections TJ Cole at running back and Peyton Stafford at offensive line. 10 of 11 offensive starters return, and six defensive starters are back.

Defending national champion Ferris State begins the year at No. 1. Great American Conference rival Harding opens the year at No. 9. Henderson State and Southeastern Oklahoma State also represent the GAC with both schools in the receiving votes list.

The Tigers have also received preseason national rankings from the College Football Network (No. 16) and the College Football America Yearbook (No. 27).

Ouachita opens the 2022 season on Thursday, September 1 at 6 p.m. on the road against Oklahoma Baptist in Shawnee.