UCO flashes depth, defense in spring win over SNU

Andrew Frazier April 25, 2025 2:07 pm

In their first spring game against another school under new NCAA rules, the UCO Bronchos gave fans a glimpse of what’s ahead with a strong first quarter against Southern Nazarene before pulling most of their starters.

UCO wide receiver and redshirt freshman C.J. Williams (4) runs down the field at UCO football’a spring game vs. Southern Nazarene University on Thursday, April 17, 2025, in Edmond. (ARRIANA CHARQUEÑO/THE VISTA)

UCO struck on their opening possession with a touchdown run by Senior Andrew Carney. Then on their second possession, quarterback Jett Huff led a quick-strike drive following a fumble recovery on the next offensive possession, capping it off with a touchdown pass to Hayden Hacker. Huff was sacked twice on the second series, but the offense looked efficient overall.

*UCO quarterback Jett Huff (9) prepares to throw at UCO football’s spring game vs Southern Nazarene University on Thursday, April 17, 2025, in Edmond. (ARRIANA CHARQUEÑO/THE VISTA)*

Running backs Jaylen Cottrell, William Mason and Carney all made plays in limited action. CJ Williams, wearing number 4, looked poised to become the go-to receiver following Terrill Davis’ transfer, and Joseph Kim handled kicking duties.

On the defensive side, the Bronchos looked sharp despite losing several key starters from last season’s MIAA championship squad. They held SNU to just a field goal and forced multiple turnovers in the first quarter. Junior Reese Roller was active, and seniors Connor Johnson and Jack Puckett were both involved in key stops as well.

UCO linebacker Reese Roller (33) tackles SNU’s running back Kaden Barron (14) at UCO football’s spring game vs Southern Nazarene University on Thursday, April 17, 2025. *(ARRIANA CHARQUEÑO/THE VISTA)*

UCO is coming off an 11-2 season that included a playoff win over Ouachita Baptist and a trip to the NCAA Division II Super Region III semifinals. The Bronchos 2025 campaign will kick off on August 30 at UT Permian Basin, with the home opener set for Sept. 6 against Pittsburg State at Chad Richison Stadium.