Sam Houston Football: A History of Success

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Howdy, football fans! Welcome to the annals of Sam Houston football, where gridiron glory has been forged for over a century. From our humble beginnings in 1918 to our current standing as a Division I powerhouse, we\’ll delve into the rich tapestry of Bearkat football. Join us as we celebrate the triumphs, learn from the setbacks, and pay homage to the legendary players and coaches who have shaped our beloved program. Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the history of Sam Houston football!

Sam Houston Football: A History of Success

The Early Years

Sam Houston football has a storied history dating back to 1914 when it was founded as Sam Houston State Teachers College. The Bearkats quickly made a name for themselves in the Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association, winning the championship in 1922. During this early period, the team played at Pritchett Field, which was dedicated in 1921 and hosted games until 1965.

In 1965, the Bearkats moved into their current home stadium, Bowers Stadium. The stadium has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, and it now seats over 12,000 fans. The Bearkats have enjoyed great success at Bowers Stadium, winning multiple conference championships and hosting several NCAA playoff games.

One of the most successful periods in Sam Houston football history came in the 1950s under the leadership of head coach Paul Pierce. Pierce led the Bearkats to three national championships in 1956, 1957, and 1958. During this era, the Bearkats were known for their high-scoring offense and stingy defense. Pierce is considered one of the greatest coaches in Sam Houston history, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

The Bearkat Dynasty

In the early 1990s, Sam Houston hired Ron Randleman as head coach. Randleman quickly turned the Bearkats into a perennial contender, leading them to seven conference championships in 12 seasons. Under Randleman, the Bearkats were known for their tough defense and efficient offense. Randleman is the winningest coach in Sam Houston history, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016.

Since Randleman\’s departure in 2004, the Bearkats have continued to be a competitive program. They have won multiple conference championships and have made several NCAA playoff appearances. In 2021, Sam Houston won the FCS national championship under the leadership of head coach K.C. Keeler. The Bearkats have a bright future ahead of them, and they are poised to continue their success for many years to come.

The Modern Era

FCS Contenders

Sam Houston has consistently maintained its competitiveness within the Football Championship Series (FCS), formerly known as Division I-AA. The Bearkats have secured three Southland Conference championships in 2011, 2012, and 2016, solidifying their dominance in the conference. Their outstanding performances have propelled them to seven FCS playoff appearances, including a thrilling run to the FCS National Championship game in 2012.

Coaching Changes

In 2009, Sam Houston initiated a coaching change, appointing K.C. Keeler as head coach. Keeler\’s leadership sparked a new era for the Bearkats. Under his guidance, the team displayed significant improvements, culminating in two consecutive Southland Conference championships in 2011 and 2012. Keeler\’s innovative approach and ability to mold talented players laid the foundation for the program\’s continued success.

In 2014, Willie Fritz succeeded Keeler as head coach. Fritz brought a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His tenure at Sam Houston was marked by two FCS playoff appearances, including a thrilling journey to the semifinals in 2016. Fritz\’s ability to develop dynamic offensive schemes and inspire his players to reach their full potential led the Bearkats to new heights.

Fritz\’s departure in 2019 marked the start of a new chapter for Sam Houston football. The program appointed Kenneth Amos as head coach, who brought with him a strong reputation for developing players and fostering a winning culture. Amos\’s guidance has been instrumental in maintaining Sam Houston\’s position as a competitive force in the FCS.

Facilities and Traditions

Bowser Stadium

The Bearkats\’ home stadium has been Bowser Stadium since its completion in 2012. Prior to that, they played their home games at Bowers Stadium, which had a capacity of 10,000. Bowser Stadium boasts a larger capacity of 12,000 and provides a more modern and fan-friendly atmosphere. The stadium features a state-of-the-art sound system, a large video board, and comfortable seating options for fans to enjoy the game.

Traditions

The Bearkat Mascot

The Bearkat mascot is a symbol of Sam Houston State University and its athletic teams. The Bearkat is a fictional animal resembling a bear with the strength and ferocity of a wildcat. It embodies the university\’s values of strength, determination, and competitive spirit. The Bearkat mascot makes appearances at various events on campus and at football games, promoting school pride and generating excitement among fans.

The \”Sam Houston War Chant\”

The \”Sam Houston War Chant\” is a traditional battle cry performed by the Bearkats football team before each game. The chant involves the team members gathering in a huddle and shouting \”Shouts out! Hu-uh! Rah! Rah! Rah! Sam! Houston! Rah! Rah! Rah!\” multiple times. This spirited ritual is designed to boost team morale and intimidate opponents, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Players and Alumni

Sam Houston State University has produced numerous outstanding players and alumni who have made their mark on the football field and beyond. These individuals have not only excelled on the gridiron but have also gone on to achieve great success in their professional endeavors.

Legendary Players

Among the most revered players in Sam Houston football history is Paul Pierce, a quarterback who led the Bearkats to four Southland Conference championships and two NCAA Division I-AA National Championships. Pierce, who played from 1985 to 1989, set numerous school records and was named the conference\’s Offensive Player of the Year three times. He was also a two-time All-American and was inducted into the Southland Conference Hall of Fame in 2003.

Jimmy Johnson, a running back who played from 1987 to 1990, is another legendary Bearkat. Known for his speed and agility, Johnson rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons and scored 25 touchdowns. He was a two-time All-Southland Conference selection and was named the team\’s Most Valuable Player in 1989. Johnson went on to play in the NFL for the New York Jets and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Notable Alumni

Sam Houston has also produced several notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers as coaches and administrators.

Jerry Glanville, a linebacker who played for the Bearkats from 1963 to 1967, later became a highly successful head coach in the NFL. He coached the Houston Oilers from 1986 to 1990, leading them to three consecutive playoff appearances, and later coached the Atlanta Falcons from 1990 to 1993.

Wade Phillips, a linebacker who played for Sam Houston from 1965 to 1967, also enjoyed a successful coaching career in the NFL. He served as the head coach of the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, and Houston Texans and was known for his signature \”3-4\” defensive scheme. Phillips was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.

Eric Dickerson, a running back who played for Sam Houston from 1977 to 1979, became one of the most prolific rushers in NFL history. He played for six different teams during his 11-season career and rushed for over 12,000 yards. Dickerson was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.