Maverick McIvor showcased impressive skills on the field, throwing four touchdown passes, including a crucial 1-yard completion to Sam Hicks with just 19 seconds remaining in the game. This performance helped propel Abilene Christian to a 35-31 victory over Tarleton State on Saturday night, earning the program its first United Athletic Conference title and securing a spot in the FCS playoffs, a historic milestone for the team.

Hicks contributed significantly to the win, compiling 137 rushing yards along with a touchdown from 24 carries. Additionally, he made seven receptions for 38 yards, underscoring his dual-threat capability. Blayne Taylor was another standout performer for Abilene Christian, accumulating 168 receiving yards on 10 catches.

Tarleton State, ranked No. 12 in the FCS coaches poll, had taken the lead 31-28 after Corbin Poston kicked a 25-yard field goal with 1:46 left to play. However, the Wildcats’ McIvor responded brilliantly. Completing 35 of 55 passes for a total of 391 yards, the sixth-year senior showcased poise and precision. During the final drive, he connected on 8 of 11 passes, effectively managing the clock with his team out of timeouts. His pivotal 75-yard drive culminated in the winning touchdown pass to Hicks.

For Tarleton State, Victor Gabalis had an impressive performance as well, completing 15 of 20 passes for 304 yards, including three touchdown passes. Darius Cooper emerged as a key target, tallying six receptions for 140 yards and two touchdowns. The Texan’s ground game also featured Kayvon Britten, who rushed for 101 yards on 22 carries, while Braelon Bridges contributed to the team’s efforts with eight carries for 73 yards and one touchdown.