TCU is 2-0 after defeating the Long Island University Sharks in dramatic fashion 45-0 on Saturday, Sept. 7 during their first home game of the 2024-25 season. The Horned Frog defense pitched their first shutout since 2017 against Kansas. “It’s really difficult to get a shutout in college football,” head coach Sonny Dykes said. The key for the Frogs defensive unit was third down efficiency, and they held the Sharks to 5-17 on those opportunities. “I’d say a big difference from last year is we got different packages,” linebacker Namdi Obiazor said. “We might go Lightning compared to our Nickel defense.” The lightning package, from defensive coordinator Andy Avalos, places more defensive backs and the team’s pass-rush-specialists on the field during third downs. TCU’s defense also plays man-to-man coverage on the majority of their snaps. “When you feel comfortable covering in man, that allows you to really focus more on stopping the run,” Dykes said. As a result, LIU’s offensive efforts only amounted to 68 pass yards, an interception and a 44% completion rate on their attempts.

The Frogs’ defensive back room is extremely confident. “I feel like we got some great DB’s, we play with good feet, good eyes and we just trust what we see,” safety Richard Toney Jr. said. On offense, the rushing attack was prolific as the Frogs rushed for 127 yards and four touchdowns.

Starting running back Cam Cook scored three touchdowns, but other rotational players left a mark as well. “We’re looking for that next guy to be real consistent,” Dykes said. The running back room featured Dominique Johnson and Jeremy Payne, who had a combined 15 carries for 56 yards and a touchdown. “I think Dominic was probably the guy tonight but, you know, I thought Jeremy did some good things, and I think he opened our eyes a little bit to what some possibilities are with him,” Dykes said. This outing made it two straight games with over 400 yards of offense for TCU. The win was utterly dominant for the Frogs, but the team still hopes to get better. “A lot of things to improve on, but overall, pretty pleased with our performance,” Dykes said. The Horned Frogs will enter conference play with a boost of confidence as they host UCF next Saturday, Sept. 14, at 6:30 p.m. CDT. The game will be available to stream on FOX. Watch highlights: TCU vs. LIU highlights video