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![\"Football](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/SLC_Opening_Drive.jpg\")
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\n Football
\n 7\/17\/2026 6:03:00 PM
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HOUSTON \u2013 The East Texas A&M University football team is all set to begin the 2026 season at the Southland Football Opening Drive, presented by Big Game USA, on Tuesday in Houston at the George R. Brown\u00a0Convention Center. Quick facts on the Lions prior to the start of the 2026\u00a0season can be found HERE<\/a>.\u00a0East Texas A&M welcomes a newcomer class of 58 to the squad going into the 2026 season, along with revamped coaching staff.\u00a0The full 2026\u00a0roster for the Lions can be seen HERE<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n For the third year in a row, the Lions begin their season on National Television, as they are part of the FCS Kickoff this season, playing at Mercer on August 29. Kick-off in Macon, Georgia, is set for 6 p.m. central on ESPN. East Texas A&M is one of three programs in FCS football to start its season on National TV in each of the past three seasons.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
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\nThe three representatives for the Lions in San Antonio are fourth-year\u00a0coach Clint Dolezel<\/a>, defensive back Orion Kupu<\/a>\u00a0(Gilbert, Ariz.), and running back EJ Oakmon<\/a> (Pflugerville).
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\nThe trio will take part in meetings with their counterparts from the Southland, as well as going through a creative content “car-wash”, and interacting with local, regional, and national media during the annual football kick-off.
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\nThe Southland Football Opening Drive will be broadcasted on ESPN+ beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday and can be watched HERE<\/a>. All\u00a010 programs in the Southland will be represented throughout the broadcast, with the Lions set to appear on the broadcast starting at 9:10 a.m.\u00a0
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\nMore information on the Southland Football Opening Drive can be found HERE<\/a>.\u00a0The Southland Football Drive is held in conjunction with the Texas High School Coaches Association Coaching School and Convention for the third straight year.\u00a0<\/p>\n