The University of Texas Permian Basin Falcons saw their undefeated run come to an end Saturday night, falling 27–14 to the 13th-ranked Central Washington Wildcats in a highly anticipated Lone Star Conference matchup at Ratliff Stadium.
The Falcons, entering the game ranked No. 6 nationally, struggled to establish their ground game against a physical Central Washington defense. UTPB was held to just 50 rushing yards, while the Wildcats dominated the trenches with 238 yards on the ground—a key factor in the outcome.
Despite the loss, UTPB’s defense held firm through the air. The Falcons limited CWU quarterback Kennedy McGill to only 70 passing yards, showcasing a disciplined secondary. On the other side, UTPB quarterback Kanon Gibson threw for 250 yards, but the offense couldn’t convert key drives into points in the second half.
The game began with promise for the Falcons, who took an early 7–0 lead in the first quarter. However, Central Washington responded with a field goal in the second quarter and gradually took control after halftime. The Wildcats outscored UTPB 17–0 in the fourth quarter, sealing the win and handing the Falcons their first defeat of the 2025 season.
With the loss, UTPB drops to 5–1 overall and 3–1 in conference play, while Central Washington improves to 5–1 and remains undefeated in the LSC at 4–0.
Head coach Kris McCullough and the Falcons will look to regroup quickly as they prepare for another conference test next Saturday against Texas A&M–Kingsville. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m.
While the setback stings, UTPB remains firmly in the playoff conversation and will aim to bounce back with renewed focus and urgency.
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