Coach: Kevin Bachtel (2nd season). Starters returning O/D: 7/4. 2023: 6-4, 3-3 ASC

Howard Payne's situation was stable heading into spring practice. The coaching staff was intact and actively training a quarterback to replace ASC Offensive Player of the Year Landon McKinney, who chose to step away from football to focus on his career and being a husband.

The HPU offense was suddenly thrown into uncertainty on April 15 when offensive coordinator Brad Wilson departed for an FCS opportunity. Kevin Bachtel quickly replaced Wilson with Brandon Houston, a veteran high school coach.

“We’ll be similar on offense because that’s the system I believe works,” Bachtel said. “But when you bring in a new play-caller, they will want to use their terminology. There will be some adjustments.”

While the timing isn’t ideal, Bachtel needs his players to adapt to Houston’s offensive terminology before the season opener against Hardin-Simmons.