The No. 4 Tyler Junior College Apaches are set to host the Utah Islanders in a non-conference football game on Saturday at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Earl Campbell Field. The Apaches hold a 1-0 record entering the contest, while the Islanders will be playing their first game of the season.
Sophomore Bryson Burgess, who plays nickelback and strong safety, demonstrated his defensive prowess in the Apaches' opening 30-20 victory against then No. 6 Georgia Military. Burgess recorded three tackles, two of which were unassisted, contributing to the team's success in containing the Bulldog receivers. The Houston native, standing 5-8 and weighing 165 pounds, has already earned his degree from Tyler Junior College.
Burgess has carved his own path on the field, choosing to play defense despite his older brothers, Torrance Burgess Jr. and Bryce Burgess, both excelling as running backs. His brothers played at Pearland Dawson High School and Tyler Junior College before moving on to Division I programs; Torrance Jr. is now at Texas State, and Bryce is at Troy. Bryson emphasized his preference for defense, stating, "I just felt more suited for it." He believes he is more physical than his brothers and earned his spot on the team.
Looking ahead, Burgess is confident in the team's potential for the 2026 season. He expressed aspirations for the Apaches to "duplicate last year and go even further," with a national championship as their ultimate goal. He noted that the team possesses the necessary players and coaches and needs to remain team-oriented.
After this season, Burgess intends to pursue playing Division I football, following in his brothers' footsteps. The business major, son of Torrance and Carla Burgess, has already received two offers, including one from East Texas A&M, and plans to commit after the season concludes.
The Utah Islanders are an independent collegiate-development football program based in West Valley City, Utah, designed to provide athletes with opportunities to reach their full potential. This Saturday's game marks the first meeting between the Apaches and the Islanders. The Apaches will begin their SWJCFC play on September 5, traveling to Brenham for a 7 p.m. kickoff against Blinn.
Torrance Burgess Jr. recorded 1,214 all-purpose yards at TJC in 2021 before transferring to Texas State via UTEP, where he earned All-Conference USA honorable mention in 2023 and is a Phil Steele Third Team All-Pac-12 preseason selection this season. Bryce Burgess contributed significantly to TJC's success in 2024 and 2025, helping the Apaches secure a conference regular season title and advance to the league championship and national semifinals.
