Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) is a private Baptist university located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. The university's football team, the Ouachita Baptist Tigers, competes in the Great American Conference (GAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II. With a rich history dating back to 1896, the Tigers have established themselves as a prominent force in college football.
Ouachita Baptist University Football History
The Ouachita Baptist Tigers have a long and storied history, with their first football game played in 1896. Over the years, the team has undergone several conference changes, including stints in the Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference (AIC) and the Gulf South Conference (GSC). In 2011, the Tigers joined the Great American Conference, where they currently compete against other top-ranked NCAA Division II teams.
Notable Seasons and Achievements
The Ouachita Baptist Tigers have experienced several notable seasons, including their 2014 campaign, which saw the team finish with a 10-2 overall record and a 10-1 mark in conference play. This impressive performance earned the Tigers a share of the GAC championship title. Additionally, the team has produced several NFL players, including All-Pro defensive back and return specialist, Clyde Gates, who played for the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets.
| Season | Overall Record | Conference Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 10-2 | 10-1 |
| 2018 | 9-3 | 9-2 |
| 2020 | 8-2 | 7-1 |
Coaching Staff and Facilities
The Ouachita Baptist Tigers are led by head coach, Todd Knight, who has been at the helm since 2014. Coach Knight has compiled an impressive 56-24 overall record and a 46-14 mark in conference play during his tenure. The team plays its home games at Cliff Harris Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of over 5,000. The stadium features a turf playing surface, which provides a safe and consistent environment for the players.
Player Development and Recruiting
The Ouachita Baptist Tigers prioritize player development, with a strong focus on recruiting top talent from the region. The team’s coaching staff works closely with local high schools and junior colleges to identify and develop promising young athletes. Once on campus, players have access to top-notch facilities, including the Ouachita Baptist University Football Fieldhouse, which features weight rooms, meeting rooms, and training facilities.
- Weight Room: A state-of-the-art facility with free weights, machines, and cardio equipment
- Meeting Rooms: Equipped with audio-visual equipment and seating for team meetings and film sessions
- Training Facilities: Including a turf practice field and a sports medicine center
What conference does Ouachita Baptist University football compete in?
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The Ouachita Baptist University football team competes in the Great American Conference (GAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II.
Who is the head coach of the Ouachita Baptist Tigers football team?
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The head coach of the Ouachita Baptist Tigers football team is Todd Knight.
What is the name of the rivalry game between Ouachita Baptist University and Henderson State University?
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The rivalry game between Ouachita Baptist University and Henderson State University is known as the Battle of the Ravine.
