PENSACOLA, Fla. — The Argos succeeded in all three phases of the game in their season opener, defeating the McKendree Bearcats 38-6.

In front of over 4,000 fans, redshirt freshman Marcus Stokes made his debut as the Argos’ starting quarterback. Stokes led UWF’s offense to 231 passing yards and 90 rushing yards.

West Florida head coach Kaleb Nobles praised Stokes’ efficiency. “He played pretty efficiently,” Nobles said. “I thought he handled himself very well; he was very calm and composed.

Nobles added,  “[Marcus is] a higher energy guy, but he was very calm and relaxed tonight, which I think is great for him in his first college start.

The Argos’ defense stifled the McKendree offense throughout the game, allowing only one touchdown and forcing three turnovers

Linebacker Ralph Ortiz, the 2023 GSC Defensive Freshman of the Year, led the Argos with six tackles and sealed the game with a pick-six in the fourth quarter.

Defensive lineman Aiden Swett and linebacker Will Breland returned after injuries at McKendree cut short their 2023 season.

Breland finished with five tackles and a team-leading two-and-a-half tackles for loss, while Swett recorded one of the Argos’ two sacks.

Defensive back Virgil Lemons contributed with two tackles and 147 punt return yards on two returns.

West Florida has a 16-day break before their next game. While emphasizing improvements for their upcoming match against West Alabama, the Argos are not taking their victories for granted.

“There’s a lot of things to clean up, but it’s hard to win games,” Nobles said. “We’re very thankful for a big win.”

The Argos will host the West Alabama Tigers (2-0) on Saturday, September 21, at Pen Air Field.

“This is the most important game on our schedule because it is our next one,” Nobles said. “We’re focused on them and playing at a high level.”