To say the 2023 college football season was a challenge for Texas A&M-Commerce would be an understatement. The Lions opened their second season of transition from NCAA Division II against two teams ranked in the FCS top 20, including a road trip to the defending national quarterfinalist, Sacramento State.
Injuries and a lack of quality depth wreaked havoc on the roster from Week 1. The Lions had 31 players unable to suit up for the season finale, with 21 requiring surgery last year. The result was a 1-9 record for Clint Dolezel, who was entering his first season as a collegiate head coach at his alma mater following an illustrious career in the Arena Football League.