The 2022 season was one for the history book for the Lions. Former Texas College head coach Greg Ellis was chosen to lead SAGU in late June after Ryan Smith resigned in late May. But that only made the Lions better. Ellis is known for his defensive prowess as a coach and during his playing days with the Dallas Cowboys. SAGU’s defense was stout last year, allowing 19.64 points per game, which was third-best in the Sooner Athletic Conference.

The focus for SAGU heading into the 2023 season is if the offense can produce against the top teams in the SAC. The Lions scored 32 points in their three losses last year, including a shutout at Texas Wesleyan. Their 10.7 points per game in their three losses was nearly 18 points below their season average.