The Southland Conference - July 1st and beyond

[McCowboys]

Jim Gazzolo column: Whatever you call it, it’s starting over Published 12:00 pm Thursday, July 27, 2023


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/27/jim-gazzolo-column-whatever-you-call-it-its-starting-over/

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/27/jim-gazzolo-column-whatever-you-call-it-its-starting-over/

[McCowboys]

It was like Heaven for me today as Jim Gazzolo had an article in the LCAP about McNeese's bigger (much bigger) offensive line with depth, and Zem has a daily blog about the Cowboys in camp we need to watch for.
It's getting closer....

[lionsrking2]

We don't usually announce or publicize transfers but looks like we added a nice piece to an already loaded offensive line: Navy transfer, Ahmad Bradley (6-3, 320) was added to the roster over the last couple of days. New Orleans native, played in 18 games for the Midshipmen, including three starts in 2022. Allows us to move John Allen back to his natural position of center.

We've also added SMU transfer safety, Donald Clay, over the summer. Another New Orleans area native, played in 25 games at SMU. Others we've added since the spring but haven't publicized: RB Harlan Dixon, Louisiana Tech; DB Ralph Walker, LSU; WR Xavier Hill, Kennesaw State; DB Victor Tademy, Harvard. We also added JC running back, Cyrus Zuell.

[McCowboys]

We don't usually announce or publicize transfers but looks like we added a nice piece to an already loaded offensive line: Navy transfer, Ahmad Bradley (6-3, 320) was added to the roster over the last couple of days. New Orleans native, played in 18 games for the Midshipmen, including three starts in 2022. Allows us to move John Allen back to his natural position of center.

We've also added SMU transfer safety, Donald Clay, over the summer. Another New Orleans area native, played in 25 games at SMU. Others we've added since the spring but haven't publicized: RB Harlan Dixon, Louisiana Tech; DB Ralph Walker, LSU; WR Xavier Hill, Kennesaw State; DB Victor Tademy, Harvard. We also added JC running back, Cyrus Zuell.

That is quite a haul for the Lions. SLU's proximity to LSU and New Orleans does pay dividends.

One of McNeese's WR's recently left for LaTech. The Cowboys report today, and we'll see who does or doesn't show up. McNeese did a good job since Goff has arrived of signing an assortment of transfers with two or more years of eligibility remaining (whether coming from FBS, FCS, or JUCO) and am impressive crop of high schoolers. I guess the staff will see if they need to see if there are still any "homeless" players in the portal they may need to recruit.

It's getting closer....

[caribbeanhen]

Kym WimberlyHometown: Slidell, LA

Delaware Bluehen transfer who if healthy, will be a big contributor in my view

I only put this here because he’s from Louisiana and I don’t remember any Louisiana receivers at Delaware before

[lionsrking2]

Kym WimberlyHometown: Slidell, LA

Delaware Bluehen transfer who if healthy, will be a big contributor in my view

I only put this here because he’s from Louisiana and I don’t remember any Louisiana receivers at Delaware before

Holy Cross HS kid. Very familiar with him, played for a buddy of mine.

[caribbeanhen]

Holy Cross HS kid. Very familiar with him, played for a buddy of mine.

Oh nice! Must be pretty smart to as he transferred from Harvard - grad student

lucky he’s not a Lion

[lionsrking2]

Oh nice! Must be pretty smart to as he transferred from Harvard - grad student

lucky he’s not a Lion

Yes good kid and student by all accounts

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/27/balance-of-power-running-game-must-complement-passing-attack/

Balance of power: Running game must complement passing attack Published 8:25 am Thursday, July 27, 2023 By Jim Gazzolo


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/27/balance-of-power-running-game-must-complement-passing-attack/

Not often can a team lose its top running back, the league’s offensive player of the year, and believe it is better at that position heading into the next season. Yet that is the case at McNeese State....

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/29/beefed-up-protection-cowboys-throw-quarterbacks-helpline/

Beefed-up protection Cowboys throw quarterbacks helpline Published 8:00 am Saturday, July 29, 2023


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/29/beefed-up-protection-cowboys-throw-quarterbacks-helpline/

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/26/qb-battle-cowboys-looking-for-on-field-leader/

QB battle: Cowboys looking for on-field leader Published 8:00 am Wednesday, July 26, 2023 By Jim Gazzolo


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/07/26/qb-battle-cowboys-looking-for-on-field-leader/

McNeese State head football coach Gary Goff has a handful of quarterbacks to choose from, including two promising transfers, to get the Cowboys’ Air Raid off the ground.

Every time Gary Goff is asked about his starting quarterback he is quick to mention Nate Glantz and Tre Simmons. It is as if the two transfers are linked at the hip. It is similar to the response the McNeese State head coach gave the year before, only the names have changed....

[lionsrking2]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/7/30/football-reigning-slc-champion-slu-set-to-open-fall-practice.aspx

The Lions will return several key players who missed all or the majority of last season with injuries. SLU was particularly hard hit on the offensive and defensive lines, as well as at tight end in 2022. Last fall's unfortunate circumstances have turned several of those areas into positions of strength heading into 2023.

"Because of our injury situation last year, a lot of guys were thrust into game action," Scelfo stated. "With that playing time, those players grew and developed. With many of those injured guys returning and so many young players coming back with game experience, we've increased our depth and the level of competition."

[McNeese72]

One of the many facility improvements that are planned and/or being worked on at McNeese is done:

https://twitter.com/McNeeseFootball/status/1685795482256158720

Doc

[McNeese72]

Some more photos of the new dressing room.

https://twitter.com/McNeeseFootball/status/1685806608054358016

[lionsrking2]

Some more photos of the new dressing room.

https://twitter.com/McNeeseFootball/status/1685806608054358016

Looks good. Can't wait to get our new building built. 2025 can't get here soon enough.

[McCowboys]

One of the many facility improvements that are planned and/or being worked on at McNeese is done:

https://twitter.com/McNeeseFootball/status/1685795482256158720

Doc

Thanks, Doc! The Cowboys reported this weekend and are ecstatic about the awesome locker room! Geaux Pokes!

[McCowboys]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/7/30/football-reigning-slc-champion-slu-set-to-open-fall-practice.aspx

The Lions will return several key players who missed all or the majority of last season with injuries. SLU was particularly hard hit on the offensive and defensive lines, as well as at tight end in 2022. Last fall's unfortunate circumstances have turned several of those areas into positions of strength heading into 2023.

"Because of our injury situation last year, a lot of guys were thrust into game action," Scelfo stated. "With that playing time, those players grew and developed. With many of those injured guys returning and so many young players coming back with game experience, we've increased our depth and the level of competition."

That could be said about McNeese as well. At the end of the season, the Cowboys had around 60 healthy bodies and redshirts had to be broken on several of them. That experience should be of great help this year. For some reason, the injury bug has been particularly unkind to the Cowboys for the last several years.

- - - Updated - - -


https://lionsports.net/news/2023/7/30/football-reigning-slc-champion-slu-set-to-open-fall-practice.aspx

The Lions will return several key players who missed all or the majority of last season with injuries. SLU was particularly hard hit on the offensive and defensive lines, as well as at tight end in 2022. Last fall's unfortunate circumstances have turned several of those areas into positions of strength heading into 2023.

"Because of our injury situation last year, a lot of guys were thrust into game action," Scelfo stated. "With that playing time, those players grew and developed. With many of those injured guys returning and so many young players coming back with game experience, we've increased our depth and the level of competition."

Another reason the Lions are preseason SLC #1!

[McCowboys]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

From Zem's Gems:
McNeese’s schedule will look something like this..

[My note: Coaches arrive around 5 AM.]
6AM Team Breakfast- light array of digestible foods with plenty of fluids.
6:45-7:15 AM- Taping and meetings with position coaches.
7:45-8:00 AM Take the field for morning practice.
8:00AM to 9:00AM Practice
9:00AM to 9:10AM – Break for shade and replenish fluids (Powerade and oranges). They use something other than the Gatorade brand. [My note: I think Goff said Powerade.]
9:10AM to 10:10 AM Practice (times are approximate)
10:30AM to 11:30AM Shower, relax, treatment, and replenish fluids.
12:30 to 1:30PM – Lunch
2PM-3PM- Special team meetings or position coach’s meeting.
3PM- Half the team will hit the weight room on Tues./Thurs. and half the team will watch film.
5PM- Team Dinner
7PM- Team Meeting
7:30PM Discussion of next day’s practice and explanation of what will be installed.
8 PM- Player walk-through reinforcing what was just taught.
9PM -Evening Meal
10PM Liquid IV’s
11PM Lights Out
5:30AM Next day repeat process.

[caribbeanhen]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

From Zem's Gems:
McNeese’s schedule will look something like this..

[My note: Coaches arrive around 5 AM.]
6AM Team Breakfast- light array of digestible foods with plenty of fluids.
6:45-7:15 AM- Taping and meetings with position coaches.
7:45-8:00 AM Take the field for morning practice.
8:00AM to 9:00AM Practice
9:00AM to 9:10AM – Break for shade and replenish fluids (Powerade and oranges). They use something other than the Gatorade brand. [My note: I think Goff said Powerade.]
9:10AM to 10:10 AM Practice (times are approximate)
10:30AM to 11:30AM Shower, relax, treatment, and replenish fluids.
12:30 to 1:30PM – Lunch
2PM-3PM- Special team meetings or position coach’s meeting.
3PM- Half the team will hit the weight room on Tues./Thurs. and half the team will watch film.
5PM- Team Dinner
7PM- Team Meeting
7:30PM Discussion of next day’s practice and explanation of what will be installed.
8 PM- Player walk-through reinforcing what was just taught.
9PM -Evening Meal
10PM Liquid IV’s
11PM Lights Out
5:30AM Next day repeat process.

what about the facials and manicures ? Just not right

Seriously though, that’s very interesting

If I was a player I would vote for less pampering and more free time…. Long day

[MR. CHICKEN]

]what about the facials and manicures ?[/SIZE] Just not right

Seriously though, that’s very interesting

If I was a player I would vote for less pampering and more free time…. Long day



.............xlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxl olxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolx....... ...xnodx

[McCowboys]

what about the facials and manicures ? Just not right

Seriously though, that’s very interesting

If I was a player I would vote for less pampering and more free time…. Long day

Come practice in 100 degree weather (feels like temp of 110) and you might want to be pampered, too.

[McCowboys]

.............xlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxl olxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolxxlolx....... ...xnodx

Go ahead and chuckle, Mr. Chicken. With the current temperatures down here, you would be roast chicken in short time. Cock-A-Doodle-Doo!

[McNeese75]

what about the facials and manicures ? Just not right

Seriously though, that’s very interesting

If I was a player I would vote for less pampering and more free time…. Long day

xlolx As IF you would have a vote xeyebrowx

[caribbeanhen]

Come practice in 100 degree weather (feels like temp of 110) and you might want to be pampered, too.

Don’t fret none

just having a little fun at your expense

My Louisiana roots run deep

Hope you’ve never been but the Mary Bird Cancer Center was named after a third cousin and granny was born in metro Delhi at turn of the 20th century… Her Daddy was in on logging boom

[McCowboys]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

A few team reports (besides McNeese) on Zem's Thursday blog (SLU, NSU, Lamar, UIW).

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/8/4/football-building-a-champion-with-local-and-regional-talent.aspx

LAKE CHARLES – The State of Louisiana and Southwestern Louisiana, for that matter, have been a hot-bed for talent year-in and year-out, and second-year McNeese football head coach Gary Goff (https://mcneesesports.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/gary-goff/1823) jumped on those trails the minute he stepped foot in Lake Charles.

Of the 110 players in fall camp for the Cowboys, 52 of them call Louisiana home while nearly two dozen are from right here in Southwest Louisiana. Another 22 are from Texas with a majority of those from the Southeast Texas region.

"We have all the talent we could shake a stick at in Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas," said Goff. "We recruit about a three-hour radius from our campus. We have 20 or so players from what is considered right here in our backyard. I'm excited about those guys....."

[McCowboys]

https://herosports.com/fcs-uiw-football-2023-game-predictions-bzbz/

2023 UIW Football Game-by-Game Predictions

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/08/08/cowboys-lose-their-cool-in-practice/

Cowboys lose their cool in practice Published 8:00 am Tuesday, August 8, 2023 By Jim Gazzolo


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/08/08/cowboys-lose-their-cool-in-practice/

Gary Goff begins his second season as head football coach at McNeese State with a better understanding of what he’s up against on and off the field as he tries to turn around the once-elite program.

With pads on for the first time, and at the end of a week in the heat, tempers flared during McNeese State’s Monday morning practice. It made for an early ending of the scrimmage portion of the workout but not the running. Head coach Gary Goff made the Cowboys run off their aggression for about 30 minutes to close out the first six practices. McNeese will have an off day today. Email newsletter signup Sign up for our daily email newsletter “We just lost our composure,” Goff said. “Things turned into a little bit of a bar fight. This is normal, to be honest.” Before that it was a lively first practice in pads with high energy and solid competition. “We had a great day until the end,” Goff added. “We may have wanted to fight more than to play at that point. “We have to keep our composure and keep our discipline. I want to be a tough football team but we can’t have that.”

In the end, Goff said it all made for a good teaching point for a football team still getting to know each other. With 57 newcomers it is not surprising that there are more than a few tense moments during the hot days of summer. Goff has said he is more than happy with the way the first six days of camp have gone for the Cowboys, who are trying to snap three consecutive seasons of finishing with a losing record. “It is a good camp so far,” Goff said. “There is a lot of good competition all over the field. A lot more competition than a year ago.” Two areas Goff said he has seen improvement are in the offensive line and with the wide receivers.

Both groups got a major influx of new faces in the offseason, particularly the receivers. One player who has stood out, Goff said, is true freshman Makhi Paris from Edna Karr High in New Orleans. Goff, who has been tough on the receivers, said the group as a whole has improved and taken “a big step in the right direction.” The receiver room was one of the bigger problems for McNeese last year.

An improved offensive line should help give the new quarterbacks time to throw, Goff said. For Goff and the rest of the coaches, having to stop losing time scrimmaging because of a fight isn’t a good thing, but it does show a team with spirit and fire.

McNeese received notice for a good offseason when it was one of three Southland Conference teams to receive votes in the preseason poll by Stats Preform. The Cowboys picked up eight points while Incarnate Word was picked for seventh in the Football Championship Subdivision with Southeastern Louisiana coming in No. 15.

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/08/08/qb-quandary-glantz-simmons-in-two-man-battle/

QB quandary: Glantz, Simmons in two-man battle Published 10:00 am Tuesday, August 8, 2023 By Jim Gazzolo

A pair of quarterbacks battling for one position have taken different paths to McNeese State. Monday, for the first time since arriving on campus in January, Nate Glantz and Tre’ Simmons talked of their journeys, their previous work, and of course their hopes of becoming the next Cowboys starter. One of the two will earn the job after what has already been a tough battle.
Second-year Cowboys head coach Gary Goff, who went through the same process last season, has said this year’s competition is better. He added that both players could be the one leading McNeese in the season opener on Sept. 2 against Tarleton State. “It is neck and neck,” Goff said. “It is going to go right down to the wire. Both of these players are very capable of winning the job.” Even more impressively, both talked like guys who could lead a football team. And almost as importantly, each has embraced the battle.

“Both of us can be the quarterback,” Simmons said. “We make each other better. “(Glantz) makes me come to work every day. That’s what competition is all about. That goes for the entire (quarterback) room.” Glantz said he feels the same way. “The competition has been great,” Glantz said. “Competition has always been in my blood. It is what makes you better.” Glantz is a transfer from Power Five school Iowa State, where he played last year but didn’t get in a game. That was after two seasons in junior college where he was named the national player of the year. Simmons is a transfer up from the Division II level and played last season at Tusculum University in Florida. There he was a dual-threat quarterback who could run and throw equally as well.

“They both have skill sets that we can us,” Goff said. “Both can make big plays but both still have a lot to learn.” Each one has had good and bad days, Goff said, with them flipping the roles. “One day one of them comes out and plays really well and then the next day the other guy comes back and does the same thing,” he said. “They rise to the other guys’ level. It has been fun to watch.” For the players, it is just the latest in their long roads through the quarterback world.

For Glantz, he was looking for a chance to play after last season. “I just want to play football,” he said. “I believe you always want to bet on yourself. This journey has taught me so much. Now I just want to win.” Simmons said he was looking for a new challenge on a higher level. “I am more of a laid-back guy, but I can use my voice when needed,” Simmons said. “I really enjoy this team and this offense. I think it fits both our skills well.” As for what he has learned since moving up to the Division I level, Simmons said that was easy. “The speed of the game,” he said. “I had to adapt to it. It is much faster. “I just want to come out here and execute every day and continue to get better.”

Both enjoy the fact that their head coach is known for his offensive philosophy of throwing the football first. “What quarterback wouldn’t love that?” Glantz said. Each has said they like the offense and are feeling more and more comfortable with each practice.

And if we learned one thing from last year, you can never have enough quarterbacks. Injuries forced McNeese to use four last season so it is likely both will play at some point this season. “You can never have enough good players,” Goff said. The two said they are looking forward to the camp’s first scrimmage which is set for Saturday morning inside Cowboy Stadium. That could go a long way in deciding which one of the two quarterbacks’ paths end up with a starting role.

Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/08/08/qb-quandary-glantz-simmons-in-two-man-battle/

[caribbeanhen]

This is a good get for the Bluehens

Landing at DelawareWhen Wimberly was considering where to use his final season of football eligibility, he originally planned to go closer his Sidell, Louisiana, home.
Alabama’s Samford was strongly considered, and southern FCS schools Northwestern State, Alcorn and McNeese recruited Wimberly. So did FBS schools Marshall and UMass farther north.
TAYLOR TACKLES NEW CHALLENGE:West Chester transfer bolsters the Blue Hens (https://www.anygivensaturday.com/safari-reader://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/college/ud/2023/04/11/west-chester-transfer-taylor-boost-delaware-blue-hens-football-roster/70091759007/)
But Delaware also contacted him and when Wimberly visited Newark, he knew he’d found the right destination. The Blue Hens’ wide-open offensive style was the main attraction.

[lionsrking2]

SLU camp update from Frank Scelfo:

https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688958768908840986?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688970709077225472?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688958768908840986?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688972232020660238?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688972414305423360?s=20

[caribbeanhen]

LK2,

can fans attend practice?

[McCowboys]

SLU camp update from Frank Scelfo:

https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688958768908840986?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688970709077225472?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688958768908840986?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688972232020660238?s=20
https://twitter.com/LionUpRadio/status/1688972414305423360?s=20

I can't click on any of those links, Mr. Lion, and I am too lazy to copy and paste. I probably don't want to read anything anyway because it will just keep me up at night worrying.

[lionsrking2]

I can't click on any of those links, Mr. Lion, and I am too lazy to copy and paste. I probably don't want to read anything anyway because it will just keep me up at night worrying.
They’re videos posted to Twitter - not sure how to post them where they’ll show up in the post.

- - - Updated - - -


LK2,

can fans attend practice?
Yes

[caribbeanhen]

They’re videos posted to Twitter - not sure how to post them where they’ll show up in the post.

- - - Updated - - -


Yes

I thought so

I asked because Delaware has basically locked fans out, very limited access. Long time beat writer is limited on when he can be at practice as well.

[McCowboys]

FCS College Football Preview: 2023 Southland Conference
https://theanalyst.com/na/2023/08/fcs-college-football-preview-2023-southland-conference/

[McCowboys]

Southland Conference Season Preview & Picks | The FCS College Football Experience
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIUgRNc5_T8

[McCowboys]

https://bvmsports.com/2023/08/11/mcneese-cowboy-football-team-to-hold-first-scrimmage-of-fall-camp/

Key points:

The McNeese Cowboy football team will hold its first scrimmage of fall camp on Saturday morning.
Head coach Goff is looking to get around 80 plays in during the scrimmage.
The offensive line and safeties position have stood out during camp.

[McNeese72]

You know your school's administration is committed to sports when your current president is the white hat for your first scrimmage. Of course, President Darryl Burckel has refereed local high school games for years and was a linebacker for the Cowboys back in the Independence Bowl team years.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53112058675_aa58b30a9a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2oVkbDz)Cowboy Football Scrimmage 812/2023 (https://flic.kr/p/2oVkbDz) by Richard Martin (https://www.flickr.com/photos/115772304@N02/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53111640446_eb9eb8d382_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2oVi3jJ)Cowboy Football Scrimmage 812/2023 (https://flic.kr/p/2oVi3jJ) by Richard Martin (https://www.flickr.com/photos/115772304@N02/), on Flickr.

[McNeese72]

Southland Conference Season Preview & Picks | The FCS College Football Experience


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIUgRNc5_T8



I am usually very cautious about preseason hype but I am a little more optimistic about McNeese's season than these guys.

Doc

[lionsrking2]

I am usually very cautious about preseason hype but I am a little more optimistic about McNeese's season than these guys.

Doc

Other than one's own team, nobody really knows what anybody has until the season starts. Coaching changes and roster turnover is too hard to predict. Makes for good conversation I guess.

McNeese will be formidable this fall.

[Puddin Tane]

We find a qb, we may just surprise some folks…including myself

new coach wants to run…burst my bubble. I wanna throw, throw and throw some more.

at least its not gonna be ex coach Morgans’s air force playbook that consisted of 3 plays. Or was it 2?

peck em!

Hope it stays stupid hot a while longer. Curious how Idaho handles heat/humidity at 16’ above sea level instead of 2500’, and low 80s outside of their dome. I do see they are having a heat wave this week tho..dammit

[caribbeanhen]

We find a qb, we may just surprise some folks…including myself

new coach wants to run…burst my bubble. I wanna throw, throw and throw some more.

at least its not gonna be ex coach Morgans’s air force playbook that consisted of 3 plays. Or was it 2?

peck em!

Hope it stays stupid hot a while longer. Curious how Idaho handles heat/humidity at 16’ above sea level instead of 2500’, and low 80s outside of their dome. I do see they are having a heat wave this week tho..dammit

if you can beat Idaho the FCS season is off to a great start in my book

[McCowboys]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

August 15, 2023 - Reports on Lamar's and NSU's scrimmages

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/8/16/football-friday-night-cowboy-block-party-returns-for-third-year.aspx

LAKE CHARLES – The McNeese Athletic Foundation, for the third year, will present the Cowboy Block Party every Friday night prior to McNeese football Saturday home games and this year will have an added flare.

The five block parties will feature a different band for every party that will play from 7-9 p.m. at the Robert Noland Alumni Pavilion, aka "The Grove." Following the bands will be DJ Sparrow spinning tunes from 9:15-10:45 p.m.

Free admission and free parking for all who attend and outside food and drinks will be permitted. Food trucks will also be on site.

The party gets underway on Friday, September 1 with the Flamethrowers. Louisiana legend Wayne Toups will take the stage on Sept. 29. Steel Shot will perform on October 20 while the following week on Oct. 27, LA Roxx will perform. The Chee-Weez will close out the block parties on Nov. 10.

"I'm really excited to bring back our Friday Night Block Parties again this year," said McNeese Director of Athletics Heath Schroyer. "I want to give a special thanks to two of our corporate sponsors – Lake Charles Toyota and Deep South Productions who made this happen again this year.

"Every year we try to make the block parties bigger and better, and no doubt, we did it this year. Our lineup is off the charts, and with DJ Sparrow closing each Friday, it will be the party of the year each and every (home football) Friday in The Grove.

"I love Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana and I couldn't be more excited to bring our block parties to this great community again this year!"

2023 Cowboy Block Party Lineup
Sept. 1 The Flamethrowers
Sept. 29 Wayne Toups
Oct. 20 Steel Shot
Oct. 27 LA Roxx
Nov. 10 The Chee-Weez

[lionsrking2]

SLU Position Report: Offensive Line

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/16/southeastern-football-position-report-offensive-line.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team heads into 2023 with a veteran offensive line corps that has a combined 83 starts in a Lion uniform.

Through the first several weeks of fall practice, SLU head coach Frank Scelfo has been pleased with the group’s progress, but still is looking for more from the team’s most experienced position room.

“We have a veteran offensive line group that knows what to do, so assignment-wise they’ve been extremely sharp,” Scelfo commented. “As we get closer to the season, I’d like to see them play with more physicality that we know they’re capable of. We’re counting on those guys to be leaders for our team.”

The 2022 season saw Southeastern lose three opening day starters on the offensive line by week four of the season. Lion offensive line coach and run game coordinator A.J. Hopp had to throw several inexperienced players into the fire and they responded.

The offensive line helped clear the way for a Lion offense that averaged 35.3 points and 441.0 yards per outing. The Southeastern attack helped SLU to its third FCS playoff appearance in the past four years and the third Southland title in program history.

The injury misfortunes of 2022 result in Southeastern having increased depth up front heading into 2023. The Lions will enter the season with six players with starting experience, as several players had to step into more prominent roles with season-ending injuries to offensive tackles Jalen Bell and Brennan Lanclos – both who are back this season.

“One thing that last year taught us is that you can only control what you can control,” Hopp commented. “We developed a next-man up mentality and guys who’ve been in our system for a long time were able to step up when they were called upon because they continued to put in the work and trust the process. Our depth has created a lot of competition throughout camp. Our guys are just feeding off each other’s energy and making each other better every day.”

Leading the way for the Lions is 2022 All-American and Southland Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year John Allen. After starting at guard throughout his Southeastern career, the Jackson, Mississippi native is expected to move back to his junior college and high school position of center for his final collegiate campaign.

“John has been our emergency center since he’s been here, so he’s very comfortable at that position,” Hopp said. “Two weeks into camp he’s really hit as groove and looks like the player we saw on tape when we recruited him at center. He’s a natural leader and communicates very well. Behind him, William Granville has been solid and is having an awesome camp as well.”

Bell, a two-time All-SLC left tackle whose 2022 season ended last season in the season opener at UL Lafayette, and Lanclos, who the Lions lost two weeks later versus Central Connecticut State, are both back for the fall. Jhy Orgeron, a second team All-Southland selection after sliding into Bell’s spot, also returns on the edge for SLU.

“Jalen and Brennan are doing great,” Hopp commented. “Both of them are playing like they never left and are even better now. We have three All-Southland tackles in our room with Jhy back. Those three guys can all play on either side and have pushed each other all camp. It makes my job easier when I have those three options.”

At the guard spot, Brockhim Wicks is a preseason All-SLC selection after having to move to tackle last fall in place of Lanclos. Wicks and Javin Turner, who started 10 games at right guard in 2022, are expected to team with Allen to provide the Lions with a stout interior.

“Javin started a lot of games for us last year and has had a nice camp,” Hopp said. “We had to move Brock to tackle last season due to injuries, but we’ve moved him back to his natural position and he’s doing great.”

Hopp believes his group is ready to embrace the leadership expectations put on them by Scelfo.

“We have guys in our room that have been with our program a long time and have played a lot of football with us,” Hopp said. “They understand out culture and what we’re trying to accomplish. We don’t have one or two leaders up front. They all know what to do and do a great job holding each other accountable.”

The Lions will return to the practice field Thursday at 3:45 p.m.

[lionsrking2]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/17/southeastern-football-position-report-linebackers.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team features a linebacking corps that has a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers.

SLU returns its top three tacklers – Donte' Daniels (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/donte-daniels/9470) (87 tackles in 2022), Herman Christophe IV (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/herman-christophe-iv/9467) (79) and Anthony Britton Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/anthony-britton-jr-/9462) (73) – at the position. Head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) has been pleased during preseason practice with how the linebacker room's veterans and newcomers have competed.

"We have several veterans in the linebacker group that have played a lot of good football for us," Scelfo commented. "But we've brought in some newcomers that have definitely increased that group's overall athleticism. The entire linebacking group is playing with good energy."

Second-year linebacker coach Dustin Landry (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/dustin-landry/3441) echoed many of Scelfo's thoughts when providing his camp impressions on his group.

"We're two weeks in and we've been pleased with the growth of the room," Landry commented. "We return a lot of production from last year, but we're starting from ground zero. We have some newcomers who've fit in well in our room and our veterans have done well from a communication and leadership standpoint."

Landry has been pleased with the way Daniels, Christophe IV, Britton Jr. and KK Reno (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kk-reno/9516) have shown the newest Lions the way.

"We've been mixing reps between veterans and newcomers throughout," Landry commented. "We've had Herman out there with Jordan Okoye (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jordan-okoye/9691), or Britton with Lemar Harris (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/lemar-harris/9686), or KK Reno (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kk-reno/9516) and Jirrea Johnson Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jirrea-johnson-jr-/9692) Those young guys aren't where the veterans are from a knowledge or experience point, but one of our sayings for our veterans is 'ABC – Always Be Coaching' and our newcomers are coming along as far as understanding how we practice and work."

Landry didn't single any newcomer for praise, but has seen positive flashes from all the new faces in the room.

"All of our new guys have had a couple of really good days," Landry said. "There's not one guy that's head and shoulders above the other new ones, but they've all had individual days where they've shown what we projected them to be when we signed them."

Landry also didn't want to look too far ahead as far as end-of-season goals for his group.

"We don't look ahead to the end of the fall," Landry concluded. "It's a day-by-day approach. We want to stack the good days, build on the work and trust the process. If we can do that, we'll give ourselves a chance to be successful in the end."

The Lions will return to the practice field Friday at 9 a.m.

[McCowboys]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/17/southeastern-football-position-report-linebackers.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team features a linebacking corps that has a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers.

SLU returns its top three tacklers – Donte' Daniels (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/donte-daniels/9470) (87 tackles in 2022), Herman Christophe IV (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/herman-christophe-iv/9467) (79) and Anthony Britton Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/anthony-britton-jr-/9462) (73) – at the position. Head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) has been pleased during preseason practice with how the linebacker room's veterans and newcomers have competed.

"We have several veterans in the linebacker group that have played a lot of good football for us," Scelfo commented. "But we've brought in some newcomers that have definitely increased that group's overall athleticism. The entire linebacking group is playing with good energy."

Second-year linebacker coach Dustin Landry (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/dustin-landry/3441) echoed many of Scelfo's thoughts when providing his camp impressions on his group.

"We're two weeks in and we've been pleased with the growth of the room," Landry commented. "We return a lot of production from last year, but we're starting from ground zero. We have some newcomers who've fit in well in our room and our veterans have done well from a communication and leadership standpoint."

Landry has been pleased with the way Daniels, Christophe IV, Britton Jr. and KK Reno (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kk-reno/9516) have shown the newest Lions the way.

"We've been mixing reps between veterans and newcomers throughout," Landry commented. "We've had Herman out there with Jordan Okoye (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jordan-okoye/9691), or Britton with Lemar Harris (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/lemar-harris/9686), or KK Reno (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kk-reno/9516) and Jirrea Johnson Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jirrea-johnson-jr-/9692) Those young guys aren't where the veterans are from a knowledge or experience point, but one of our sayings for our veterans is 'ABC – Always Be Coaching' and our newcomers are coming along as far as understanding how we practice and work."

Landry didn't single any newcomer for praise, but has seen positive flashes from all the new faces in the room.

"All of our new guys have had a couple of really good days," Landry said. "There's not one guy that's head and shoulders above the other new ones, but they've all had individual days where they've shown what we projected them to be when we signed them."

Landry also didn't want to look too far ahead as far as end-of-season goals for his group.

"We don't look ahead to the end of the fall," Landry concluded. "It's a day-by-day approach. We want to stack the good days, build on the work and trust the process. If we can do that, we'll give ourselves a chance to be successful in the end."

The Lions will return to the practice field Friday at 9 a.m.

I have the SLU at UIW game circled on my calendar. That ought to be a good one!

[lionsrking2]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/18/southeastern-football-position-report-tight-ends.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team has placed a tight end on the All-Southland Conference team in four of the five seasons under head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430). The Lions will have plenty of candidates to continue the trend in 2023.

Ivan Drobocky (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/ivan-drobocky/9475) was named second team All-Southland Conference a season ago and is joined in the tight end room by veterans Jacob Logan (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jacob-logan/9500), Connor Briggs (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/connor-briggs/9460), Bauer Sharp (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/bauer-sharp/9520) and Cade Collier (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/cade-collier/9468). Scelfo and offensive coordinator Greg Stevens (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/greg-stevens/3432) have consistently used the tight end as a weapon in the SLU attack and 2023 should be no different.

"That room has a lot of veteran guys that we can count on," Scelfo said. "We're going to look to the tight end group for leadership, but also for play making."

Tight end coach and special teams coordinator Ross Jenkins (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/ross-jenkins/3436) shares Scelfo's excitement regarding his group's prospects for the upcoming season.

"We have a group that have all been part of our program and know the expectations," Jenkins said. "We've had a great camp. Our guys embrace their expanded role our offense and the competition among the group has pushed everyone to be better."

While Briggs has thrived mostly as a blocker, Drobocky, Logan and Sharp have all flashed big play ability in the passing game. Logan was poised to step into the role vacated by 2021 senior Nolan Givan last fall, but suffered a season-ending injury in just the third game of the season. With Logan fully healed, Jenkins believes big things are ahead for the Deer Park, Texas native.

"Jacob was our main guy heading into the season last year," Jenkins commented. "His injury opened up opportunities for Connor, Ivan and Bauer. Jacob maintained a great attitude following his injury. He's fit in great with our program and is embracing a leadership role knowing this is his final collegiate season. He hasn't missed a beat since he's come back from being hurt and Jacob's return has elevated our entire room."

When Logan was out, Drobocky stepped up into a playmaking role in a breakout season. The Bowling Green, Kentucky native hauled in a team-high six touchdowns for the SLC champions in 2022.

"Ivan always has an awesome attitude and work ethic," Jenkins said. "His knowledge and feel for the game allow us to use him in a variety of ways. Ivan is a tremendous fit in our offense."

Sharp is entering his second season as a Lion tight end. The Dothan, Alabama native was initially signed as a quarterback, but his athleticism has afforded him the opportunity to transition to a pass catcher.

"Bauer has grown over the past year as much as anyone on our team," Jenkins stated. "He's extremely gifted and possesses a great combination of size, speed, strength and athleticism. We switched Bauer to tight end because we needed to find a way to get him on the field. With a year of playing the position behind him, Bauer's improved in every facet of his game. We expect him to be a big part of what we do this season both offensively and on special teams."

The Lions will return to the practice field Saturday at 9 a.m.

[McNeese72]

Report on McNeese's last scrimmage. Either the Cowboys have a hell of an offense or have no defense. Who knows?????

[lionsrking2]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/19/southeastern-football-position-report-specialists.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team features proven talent in every facet of its special teams heading into the 2023 season.

While punter Austin Dunlap (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/austin-dunlap/9477), placekicker Riley Callaghan (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/riley-callaghan/9465) and punt returner Darius Lewis (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/darius-lewis/9498) are all preseason All-Southland Conference performers heading into the season, head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) and special teams coordinator Ross Jenkins (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/ross-jenkins/3436) has been pleased with the depth at all the specialist positions.

"We've really had good competition on special teams and guys are going to have to win their job every week, because there's somebody capable behind them ready to step in," Scelfo commented.

Heading into his final collegiate season, Dunlap has established himself as one of the premier punters in FCS. A three-time All-SLC performer, Dunlap finished 10th nationally with an SLC-best 43.4 punting average. The Slidell, Louisiana native is backed up by Alec Mahler (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/alec-mahler/9502), who has impressed both Scelfo and Jenkins this fall.

"Austin has had a great career here and we're looking forward to him finishing his time in Hammond on a high note," Jenkins said. "Austin finished last fall with a nagging injury that he took care of this spring, so that gave Alec a chance to show what he could do and he was very impressive and has continued that into the fall."

Southeastern has the luxury of having a pair of All-SLC kickers on the roster. Callaghan was 15-for-18 after taking over as the starter early in his freshman season. Mateo Rengifo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/mateo-rengifo/9515), who handled kickoffs in 2022, was among the league's best placekickers in each of his previous two seasons.

"Riley did a phenomenal job as a freshman to earn the job last year," Jenkins commented. "Mateo deserves a lot of credit for the work he's put in. He's had a great camp and it's been a good competition."

The Lions also have multiple options at long snapper, as multi-year starter Korey Karbowsky (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/korey-karbowsky/9490) returns after suffering a season-ending injury in week two of 2022. Cade Collier (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/cade-collier/9468) stepped in and handled Karbowsky's duties admirably for much of the season.

"For the first time since we've been here, we had to play three long snappers, so we know how important it is to have a backup plan there," Jenkins said. "We're glad to have Korey back, but Cade has proven he's a great snapper.

"Even though there's competition at every position, our specialists are a close-knit group," Jenkins added. "They do a great job of pulling for one another and supporting each other."

Lewis averaged just under nine yards per punt return in his debut season in Hammond. But Jenkins sees a solid mix of veterans and newcomers alike that could make an impact in the return game in the coming season.

"We're all excited to see Darius to step his game up to another level as a punt returner," Jenkins commented. "Kunta Hester (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kunta-hester/9484), Mike Williams (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/mike-williams/9703), Deantre Jackson (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/deantre-jackson/9682) and Tylon Cooper (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/tylon-cooper/9683) are all guys that we believe have the ability to be difference makers in the return game."

The Lions will return to the practice field Monday at 3:45 p.m.

[McCowboys]

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/19/southeastern-football-position-report-specialists.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team features proven talent in every facet of its special teams heading into the 2023 season.

While punter Austin Dunlap (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/austin-dunlap/9477), placekicker Riley Callaghan (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/riley-callaghan/9465) and punt returner Darius Lewis (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/darius-lewis/9498) are all preseason All-Southland Conference performers heading into the season, head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) and special teams coordinator Ross Jenkins (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/ross-jenkins/3436) has been pleased with the depth at all the specialist positions.

"We've really had good competition on special teams and guys are going to have to win their job every week, because there's somebody capable behind them ready to step in," Scelfo commented.

Heading into his final collegiate season, Dunlap has established himself as one of the premier punters in FCS. A three-time All-SLC performer, Dunlap finished 10th nationally with an SLC-best 43.4 punting average. The Slidell, Louisiana native is backed up by Alec Mahler (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/alec-mahler/9502), who has impressed both Scelfo and Jenkins this fall.

"Austin has had a great career here and we're looking forward to him finishing his time in Hammond on a high note," Jenkins said. "Austin finished last fall with a nagging injury that he took care of this spring, so that gave Alec a chance to show what he could do and he was very impressive and has continued that into the fall."

Southeastern has the luxury of having a pair of All-SLC kickers on the roster. Callaghan was 15-for-18 after taking over as the starter early in his freshman season. Mateo Rengifo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/mateo-rengifo/9515), who handled kickoffs in 2022, was among the league's best placekickers in each of his previous two seasons.

"Riley did a phenomenal job as a freshman to earn the job last year," Jenkins commented. "Mateo deserves a lot of credit for the work he's put in. He's had a great camp and it's been a good competition."

The Lions also have multiple options at long snapper, as multi-year starter Korey Karbowsky (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/korey-karbowsky/9490) returns after suffering a season-ending injury in week two of 2022. Cade Collier (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/cade-collier/9468) stepped in and handled Karbowsky's duties admirably for much of the season.

"For the first time since we've been here, we had to play three long snappers, so we know how important it is to have a backup plan there," Jenkins said. "We're glad to have Korey back, but Cade has proven he's a great snapper.

"Even though there's competition at every position, our specialists are a close-knit group," Jenkins added. "They do a great job of pulling for one another and supporting each other."

Lewis averaged just under nine yards per punt return in his debut season in Hammond. But Jenkins sees a solid mix of veterans and newcomers alike that could make an impact in the return game in the coming season.

"We're all excited to see Darius to step his game up to another level as a punt returner," Jenkins commented. "Kunta Hester (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kunta-hester/9484), Mike Williams (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/mike-williams/9703), Deantre Jackson (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/deantre-jackson/9682) and Tylon Cooper (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/tylon-cooper/9683) are all guys that we believe have the ability to be difference makers in the return game."

The Lions will return to the practice field Monday at 3:45 p.m.

xthumbsupx

[lionsrking2]

SLU D-Line Preview

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/23/southeastern-football-position-report-defensive-line.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team has multiple options on the defensive line heading into the 2023 season.

With several veterans returning with another year of experience combined with an influx of newcomers slated to have an immediate impact, Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) has high hopes for his team's front four this fall.

"We have a lot of depth on the defensive line across the board," Scelfo commented. "At the defensive tackle position, we've made some great strides schematically and with the increased discipline those guys are playing with. We've also increased our pass rush ability, especially from the edge."

Defensive line coach Tom Rinaldi (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/tom-rinaldi/3439) has been pleased with his group's progress as the season opener approaches.

"We've seen some huge development from our guys from the summer into fall camp," Rinaldi said. "Kaleb Proctor (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kaleb-proctor/9513) is a good example as one of the guys that has made a big leap from where they were three months ago."

Veterans Arlen Williams (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/arlen-williams/9530) and Garrett Crawford (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/garrett-crawford/9469) represented the Lions on the preseason All-Southland Conference team released last month, while Tyrik Mitchell (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/tyrik-mitchell/9507) was named to the Senior Bowl Watch List Wednesday. Southeastern will also get a boost from the return of Rodney Sopsher (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/rodney-sopsher/9522), who suffered a season-ending injury in the 2022 season opener.

"Rodney has been working his tail off since he's been cleared," Rinaldi stated. "He's starting to look like his old self during camp and he's doing a nice job holding the nose guard position down for us. Rodney's really progressed well these last two weeks."

Rinaldi didn't hesitate when asked about the leadership in the defensive line room.

"Our biggest leader in our room is Garrett," Rinaldi said. "He's been a three-year starter for us and has the knowledge and ability to play all four positions across the front. Guys in our room look up to him."

Rinaldi also pointed out a pair of newcomers that are expected to have a positive impact this fall.

"Shemar Pearl (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/shemar-pearl/9510) and Javen Sanchez (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/javen-sanchez/9597) have both made huge strides for us since they've been here," Rinaldi said. "We're excited to get them on the field making plays for us."

[McCowboys]

SLU D-Line Preview

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/23/southeastern-football-position-report-defensive-line.aspx

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team has multiple options on the defensive line heading into the 2023 season.

With several veterans returning with another year of experience combined with an influx of newcomers slated to have an immediate impact, Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) has high hopes for his team's front four this fall.

"We have a lot of depth on the defensive line across the board," Scelfo commented. "At the defensive tackle position, we've made some great strides schematically and with the increased discipline those guys are playing with. We've also increased our pass rush ability, especially from the edge."

Defensive line coach Tom Rinaldi (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/tom-rinaldi/3439) has been pleased with his group's progress as the season opener approaches.

"We've seen some huge development from our guys from the summer into fall camp," Rinaldi said. "Kaleb Proctor (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/kaleb-proctor/9513) is a good example as one of the guys that has made a big leap from where they were three months ago."

Veterans Arlen Williams (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/arlen-williams/9530) and Garrett Crawford (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/garrett-crawford/9469) represented the Lions on the preseason All-Southland Conference team released last month, while Tyrik Mitchell (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/tyrik-mitchell/9507) was named to the Senior Bowl Watch List Wednesday. Southeastern will also get a boost from the return of Rodney Sopsher (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/rodney-sopsher/9522), who suffered a season-ending injury in the 2022 season opener.

"Rodney has been working his tail off since he's been cleared," Rinaldi stated. "He's starting to look like his old self during camp and he's doing a nice job holding the nose guard position down for us. Rodney's really progressed well these last two weeks."

Rinaldi didn't hesitate when asked about the leadership in the defensive line room.

"Our biggest leader in our room is Garrett," Rinaldi said. "He's been a three-year starter for us and has the knowledge and ability to play all four positions across the front. Guys in our room look up to him."

Rinaldi also pointed out a pair of newcomers that are expected to have a positive impact this fall.

"Shemar Pearl (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/shemar-pearl/9510) and Javen Sanchez (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/javen-sanchez/9597) have both made huge strides for us since they've been here," Rinaldi said. "We're excited to get them on the field making plays for us."


Just send Commissioner Grant the address for SLU so he can send the trophy to the Lions.

[lionsrking2]

SLU Running Back Preview

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/22/southeastern-football-posistion-report-running-backs.aspx (https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/22/southeastern-football-posistion-report-running-backs.aspx)

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team will enter the fall season with a running back group highlighted by a second-year player looking to play a bigger role and several talented newcomers.

Southeastern will be looking to replace 2022 All-Southland running back Carlos Washington Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/carlos-washington-jr-/9131), currently with the Atlanta Falcons, as well as fellow seniors Jessie Britt (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jessie-britt/9053) and Taron Jones (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/taron-jones/9085). Sophomore Rodeo Graham Jr. (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/rodeo-graham-jr-/9480) and transfer Harlan Dixon (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/harlan-dixon/9587) are the top candidates to replicate the production of the senior trio.

"We have a strong top two in that room in Harlan and Rodeo," Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) said. "We're still trying to find who our third and fourth guy will be, but we don't expect to have a drop off in the run game. We have a lot of faith in that top two."

Graham Jr. has seen the most game action with the Lions. As a true freshman, he ran for 334 yards and a score. Fourth-year running back coach Albert Poree (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/albert-poree/3433) believes Graham is set to take another leap forward in year two in the green and gold.

"Rodeo benefitted from learning from three seniors last season about what it takes to be successful in our program," Poree commented. "We're excited to see Rodeo take the next step as a player with an increased workload. He's flourished throughout camp and has proven he's ready."

Dixon has impressed since arriving on campus after transferring from Louisiana Tech. The Slidell, Louisiana native has flashed many of the skills that allowed him to earn All-State honors at Slidell High School.

"Harlan came in with an opportunity to play right away and he's grasped that opportunity," Poree said. "He's come a long way in a short time with us and what's impressed me is his ability to step in to a leadership role so quickly. Harlan reminds me a lot of Carlos. He can break tackles and has been very good in pass protection. Harlan and Rodeo are the leaders in our room and we look for them to lead the way.

Dixon is not the only newcomer in the running back room that has impressed. A product of state power Edna Karr High School, Deantre Jackson (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/deantre-jackson/9682) has shown the speed that earned him the nickname "The Jet" and three all-state selections in track. Cyrus Zuell (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/cyrus-zuell/9759), a transfer from Butler Community College in Kansas, earned all-state honors of his own at Veterans High School in Georgia.

"We've always had three or four guys in our room that we could count on to step up in a pinch and us not miss a beat and I believe we have that again this year," Poree stated. "Deantre's speed and ability to make plays in space has made him stand out. Cyrus is as talented as anyone we have and those two are only going to get better in our system."

[lionsrking2]

SLU Wide Receivers Preview

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/24/southeastern-football-position-report-wide-receivers.aspx (https://lionsports.net/news/2023/8/24/southeastern-football-position-report-wide-receivers.aspx)

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team will have a wide receiver group featuring veterans in expanded roles and newcomers expected to contribute immediately.

What the receiving corps lacks in game experience, it makes up for in talent and athleticism.

"We have an untested group as far as game experience," Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/frank-scelfo/3430) said. "But we definitely have some talent in the room. We have some guys who have shown they're capable of making some big plays during camp and we're excited to see them in game action."

Wide receivers coach Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435), who also serves as the pass game coordinator and recruiting coordinator, is excited about the prospects for his charges.

"We have a lot of new faces, which is exciting," Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435) said. "We get more comfortable every day, so we're trending up and are only going to get better with more experience."

Veteran Darius Lewis (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/darius-lewis/9498) has been a standout among the returners this fall. A preseason All-Southland Conference selection at punt returner, Lewis is expected to be a bigger part of the offense in his second season in Hammond.

"Darius is so dynamic and he's put in so much work this offseason," Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435) commented. "His physical skill set has always been there, but he's put in the effort to raise his knowledge of the offense and understanding of coverages. He's a guy who can make things happen with the ball in his hands."

Several newcomers have flashed the abilities to have an immediate impact in the passing game.

"We signed a really good freshmen wide receiver class," Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435) stated. "Mike Williams (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/mike-williams/9703) can really run and is always working to get better, so we've been impressed with his mentality. Everything Jaylon Domingeaux (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/jaylon-domingeaux/9680)does, he does full speed. He plays violently and fast. Those two guys have already started to catch their footing in our system and we're excited where they can take their games as the season unfolds.

"Tristan Goodly (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/tristan-goodly/9701) and Clayton Lonardo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/clayton-lonardo/9702) are two other freshmen who continue to get better," Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435) continued. "From a transfer standpoint, Xavier Hill (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/xavier-hill/9728) is a big, physical guy that we think can be a big-time playmaker for us."

Anthony Scelfo (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/coaches/anthony-scelfo/3435) also touted his group's versatility.

"We have a little bit of everything in our room, so our guys compliment each other very well," Scelfo said. "Darius, Mike and Corey Lorio (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/corey-lorio/9501) are savvy guys, while Xavier, Jaylon and Marcellus Johnson (https://lionsports.net/sports/football/roster/marcellus-johnson/9489) give us a big physical presence. We're only going to get better as we continue to play together and gel with our quarterbacks. I'm pleased with where we are now and excited to see where we can go."

The Lions will return to the practice field Friday at 9 a.m. The week's practice schedule culminates Saturday with the Season Ticket Pickup Party, set for 10 a.m. in conjunction with SLU's final practice before entering game week.

[caribbeanhen]

LK2,

How did you and the fanbase like the 2 QB system last year ?

Is this becoming a thing now?

[lionsrking2]

SLU Secondary Preview

HAMMOND, La. – The reigning Southland Conference champion Southeastern Louisiana University football team will enter the 2023 season with a new look in the secondary.

The Lions will be replacing four All-SLC starters among their defensive backs. Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo is confident that the new-look back end of the SLU defense will be a plus this fall.

"We feel like we're deeper and more talented than we've been in the secondary," Scelfo commented. "We're two-deep at every position on the back end and we feel like our defensive backs have the chance to be the strength of our defense."

Defensive coordinator and assistant head coach Bill D'Ottavio has been pleased with the secondary's progress.

"Every year there's going to be change with guys graduating," D'Ottavio said. "We'll have some veterans step into bigger roles and we'll have some new guys in the mix, so we've had great competition back there. We're still a work in progress, but we're starting to see that group show up and do some things we want to see."

Markell Linzer, Ian Goodly, Kunta Hester, Coryell Pierce, Varon Douglas, Rob Buquoi and Tyrone Legette are all veterans returning in the secondary, while Blayne Delahoussaye and Justin Dumas are also back after missing all of 2022 with injuries.

Legette, a New Orleans native, was named to the preseason All-Southland Conference season last month. Cornerback coach Del Lee-Collins touted Legette's toughness.

"Tyrone is a feisty competitor and always gives his all," Lee-Collins stated. "We think he's going to make some tough plays this year. He's a proven leader, along with Blayne, in our room. Blayne has really worked hard coming back from injury and has improved tremendously."

Lee-Collins also noted that Tylon Cooper, Ralph Walker and Tyler Mansfield were newcomers to watch among the cornerbacks, as well as Jonathan Vaughn, who made the switch from running back this spring. A pair of transfer safeties Victor Tademy (Harvard) and Donald Clay (SMU) are expected to make an immediate impact, while safeties coach Antonio Baker has also been pleased with the development of freshmen Rodney Brown Jr. and Richard McKneely, as well as newcomer Khamron Ford.

Baker is bullish on the safeties' progress as the season progresses.

"As preseason progresses, we just want to continue to learn," Baker commented. "We just want to get everybody to play fast. Our guys support each other, learn from each other and we're concentrated on executing at a high level."

[lionsrking2]

LK2,

How did you and the fanbase like the 2 QB system last year ?

Is this becoming a thing now?

Thought I responded to this post yesterday but apparently deleted it by accident.

We've used multiple QBs since Frank Scelfo has been head coach and it's worked pretty well. We rotated them more evenly last year than in year's past but we've always played a second QB if situation dictated it. As far as last year in particular, both guys orchestrated big wins: Eli over UIW and Cephus over Idaho. Both played against Jacksonville State. We missed Eli badly against Samford even though we scored 42 points. He probably has a field day against that secondary. Cephus probably shouldn't have played due to a sprained shoulder he played with for several weeks and re-injured against Idaho. But we had no choice.

We'll play two again this year. How playing time is divided remains to be seen but expect both to play as the situation dictates.

[caribbeanhen]

Thought I responded to this post yesterday but apparently deleted it by accident.

We've used multiple QBs since Frank Scelfo has been head coach and it's worked pretty well. We rotated them more evenly last year than in year's past but we've always played a second QB if situation dictated it. As far as last year in particular, both guys orchestrated big wins: Eli over UIW and Cephus over Idaho. Both played against Jacksonville State. We missed Eli badly against Samford even though we scored 42 points. He probably has a field day against that secondary. Cephus probably shouldn't have played due to a sprained shoulder he played with for several weeks and re-injured against Idaho. But we had no choice.

We'll play two again this year. How playing time is divided remains to be seen but expect both to play as the situation dictates.


good stuff

Thanks!

[lionsrking2]

LionUpRadio (SLU Radio Network) Podcast No. 1 ... working the kinks out but hoping to be a weekly podcast with guests from opposing schools and/or national pundits. Will have a supplement this week with Hero Sports Sam Herder as a guest.

Also, Tom Rinaldi and the Fox Sports crew will be in town this afternoon to interview our defensive line coach, wait for it ... Tom Rinaldi. Should be interesting. xeyebrowx



- - - Updated - - -


https://youtu.be/78-xvFBcuK0

[lionsrking2]

Big thanks to Hero Sports Sam Herder for joining the Southeastern Sports Network LionUpRadio crew for tonight's podcast. Great stuff talking national FCS and Southland Conference landscape!


https://youtu.be/0CTJ6OcC22U

[McCowboys]

https://929thelake.com/lake-charles-louisiana-mcneese-football-starting-lineup-vs-tarleton-state-this-saturday/

The Pokes take on the Texans of Tarleton State this Saturday in The Hole, and we have details on the week one starters for the Cowboys.
Week One McNeese Football Starters:
Left Tackle
70 - Hezekiah Neason (6-4, 314, Jr.)
72 - Jasper Friis (6-6, 328, Jr.)
Left Guard
61 - Cole Leclair (6-3, 306, Jr.)
77 - Chris Stephens (6-4, 332, Jr.)
Center
65 - James Reddick (6-3, 303, So.)
54 - David Duvall (6-2, 303, Jr.)
Right Guard
66 - Dylan Dauzart (6-3, 309, Jr.)
71 - Elijah Melendez (6-5, 307, Jr.)
Right Tackle
75 - Hayes Creel (6-7, 315, RFr.)
79 - Greg Knox (6-6, 301, RFr.)
Tight End
22 - Kyle Klink (6-4, 245, Sr.)
41 - Tyronne Hayes (6-3, 226, So.)
Quarterback
18 - Nate Glantz (6-0, 200, Jr.)
OR
1 - Tre Simmons (6-0, 175, Jr.)
Running Back
5 - D’Angelo Durham (6-1, 208, Jr.)
20 - Coleby Hamm (5-10, 216, So.)
OR
9 - Cam Thomas (5-8, 170, Jr.)
Wide Receiver
3 - Jonathan Harris (6-0, 170, Jr.)
8 - Makhi Paris (6-2, 189, Fr.)
Wide Receiver
17 - Jon McCall (6-3, 189, So.)
12 - Aalah Brown (5-10, 185, So.)
Wide Receiver
15 - Jalen Johnson (5-9, 176, Jr.)
29 - Jaylon Henry (6-0, 183, RFr.)
Wide Receiver
14 - Jihad Marks (6-1, 210, So.)
4 - Marcus Peterson (6-3, 218, Fr.)
Bandit (DE)
42 - Earenest Grayson (6-3, 254, RJr.)
50 - Masey Lewis (6-4, 268, RFr.)
Nose
98 - Trey Winters (6-7, 350, So.)
93 - Tony Gibson (6-0, 298, Fr.)
Tackle
91 - Welland Williams (6-1, 285, RSo.)
52 - Mark Fielder (6-2, 285, Fr.)
Wolf (DE)
47 - Khylon Chapple (6-3, 248, RJr.)
40 - Grayson Mays (6-2, 242, RSo.)
Mike (LB)
56 - Brayden Adams (6-2, 215, RSr.)
34 - Jordan Toaston (6-3, 222, So.)
Stinger (LB)
48 - Micah Davey (6-2, 239, RSo.)
6 - Kylen Armstead (6-5, 213, Jr.)
Sam (DB)
7 - Johnquai Lewis (6-2, 176, Jr.)
28 - Joe Ward (5-11, 185, RFr.)
Cornerback
5 - Javon Davis (6-0, 177, So.)
9 - Jadden Matthews (5-11, 178, Jr.)
Cornerback
2 - Levi Wyatt (6-1, 187, So.)
31 - Twillie Lovett (6-1, 171, Jr.)
Safety
10 - Jaylen Jackson (6-0, 200, Sr.)
0 - Jamori Evans (5-10, 195, Jr.)
Safety
4 - Boogsie Silvera (5-11, 186, Fr.)
0 - Jamori Evans (5-10, 195, Jr.)
Place-Kicker
37 - Garrison Smith (5-10, 189, So.)
35 - Brandon Hayden (6-0, 193, RJr.)
Punter
38 - Callum Eddings (5-11, 150, Jr.)
37 - Garrison Smith (5-10, 189, So.)
Snapper
50 - Trey Vondestein (6-3, 214, RSr.)
56 - Brayden Adams (6-2, 215, RSr.)
Kick Returner
9 - Cam Thomas (5-8, 170, Jr.)
12 - Aalah Brown (5-10, 185, So.)
Punt Returner
3 - Jonathan Harris (6-0, 170, Jr.)
15 - Jalen Johnson (5-9, 176, Jr.)

[McNeese72]

https://929thelake.com/lake-charles-louisiana-mcneese-football-starting-lineup-vs-tarleton-state-this-saturday/

The Pokes take on the Texans of Tarleton State this Saturday in The Hole, and we have details on the week one starters for the Cowboys.
Week One McNeese Football Starters:
Left Tackle
70 - Hezekiah Neason (6-4, 314, Jr.)
72 - Jasper Friis (6-6, 328, Jr.)
Left Guard
61 - Cole Leclair (6-3, 306, Jr.)
77 - Chris Stephens (6-4, 332, Jr.)
Center
65 - James Reddick (6-3, 303, So.)
54 - David Duvall (6-2, 303, Jr.)
Right Guard
66 - Dylan Dauzart (6-3, 309, Jr.)
71 - Elijah Melendez (6-5, 307, Jr.)
Right Tackle
75 - Hayes Creel (6-7, 315, RFr.)
79 - Greg Knox (6-6, 301, RFr.)
Tight End
22 - Kyle Klink (6-4, 245, Sr.)
41 - Tyronne Hayes (6-3, 226, So.)
Quarterback
18 - Nate Glantz (6-0, 200, Jr.)
OR
1 - Tre Simmons (6-0, 175, Jr.)
Running Back
5 - D’Angelo Durham (6-1, 208, Jr.)
20 - Coleby Hamm (5-10, 216, So.)
OR
9 - Cam Thomas (5-8, 170, Jr.)
Wide Receiver
3 - Jonathan Harris (6-0, 170, Jr.)
8 - Makhi Paris (6-2, 189, Fr.)
Wide Receiver
17 - Jon McCall (6-3, 189, So.)
12 - Aalah Brown (5-10, 185, So.)
Wide Receiver
15 - Jalen Johnson (5-9, 176, Jr.)
29 - Jaylon Henry (6-0, 183, RFr.)
Wide Receiver
14 - Jihad Marks (6-1, 210, So.)
4 - Marcus Peterson (6-3, 218, Fr.)
Bandit (DE)
42 - Earenest Grayson (6-3, 254, RJr.)
50 - Masey Lewis (6-4, 268, RFr.)
Nose
98 - Trey Winters (6-7, 350, So.)
93 - Tony Gibson (6-0, 298, Fr.)
Tackle
91 - Welland Williams (6-1, 285, RSo.)
52 - Mark Fielder (6-2, 285, Fr.)
Wolf (DE)
47 - Khylon Chapple (6-3, 248, RJr.)
40 - Grayson Mays (6-2, 242, RSo.)
Mike (LB)
56 - Brayden Adams (6-2, 215, RSr.)
34 - Jordan Toaston (6-3, 222, So.)
Stinger (LB)
48 - Micah Davey (6-2, 239, RSo.)
6 - Kylen Armstead (6-5, 213, Jr.)
Sam (DB)
7 - Johnquai Lewis (6-2, 176, Jr.)
28 - Joe Ward (5-11, 185, RFr.)
Cornerback
5 - Javon Davis (6-0, 177, So.)
9 - Jadden Matthews (5-11, 178, Jr.)
Cornerback
2 - Levi Wyatt (6-1, 187, So.)
31 - Twillie Lovett (6-1, 171, Jr.)
Safety
10 - Jaylen Jackson (6-0, 200, Sr.)
0 - Jamori Evans (5-10, 195, Jr.)
Safety
4 - Boogsie Silvera (5-11, 186, Fr.)
0 - Jamori Evans (5-10, 195, Jr.)
Place-Kicker
37 - Garrison Smith (5-10, 189, So.)
35 - Brandon Hayden (6-0, 193, RJr.)
Punter
38 - Callum Eddings (5-11, 150, Jr.)
37 - Garrison Smith (5-10, 189, So.)
Snapper
50 - Trey Vondestein (6-3, 214, RSr.)
56 - Brayden Adams (6-2, 215, RSr.)
Kick Returner
9 - Cam Thomas (5-8, 170, Jr.)
12 - Aalah Brown (5-10, 185, So.)
Punt Returner
3 - Jonathan Harris (6-0, 170, Jr.)
15 - Jalen Johnson (5-9, 176, Jr.)

According to Zem, not a single person on the two deep chart played against Tarlington St. when we played them in that spring season except for the possiblity of on 1 linebacker who was listed as a backup back then.

Doc

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/8/17/football-mcneese-to-launch-pokecast-on-aug-30-at-mr-bill-s.aspx

MCNEESE TO LAUNCH POKECAST ON AUG. 30 AT MR. BILL'S
LAKE CHARLES – McNeese fans will be treated to something new beginning on August 30 with the debut of PokeCast, a weekly McNeese's coaches show and podcast that will broadcast live every Wednesday evening from 6-7 p.m. beginning Aug. 30 and running to May 30, at Mr. Bill's Seafood Express.

Sponsored by Mr. Bill's, Southwest Beverage, Keiland Construction and the McNeese Cowboy Club, PokeCast will be hosted by Jim Gazzolo and will feature coaches from the athletic teams that are in season.

"I'm excited about starting a coaches podcast this fall," said McNeese Director of Athletics Heath Schroyer. "It's been something I've wanted to do for quite some time and we finally have the manpower and the infrastructure in place to make it happen."

Airing live from Mr. Bill's, PokeCast will be an interactive event with fans in attendance who will be encouraged to ask questions to the guest coaches.

"This will be a great chance for our community and our fans to come out to a great venue and hear from our coaches each week," said Schroyer. "The ability for our fans to interact and ask questions to our coaches during the hour will no doubt be a hit with all our fans and listeners."

PokeCast will air live on 92.9 The Lake while the video aspect of the podcast will be posted on the McNeese Athletics website (McNeeseSports.com) and on the McNeese Sports YouTube Channel.

"This podcast is just another step forward for our athletic department and for the growth of the McNeese Athletic Foundation (MAF)," Schroyer commented. "I couldn't be more excited.

"I want to personally thank our four corporate sponsors of PokeCast – Southwest Beverage, Mr. Bill's, Keiland Construction and the Cowboy Club. They all share my vision for the future of MAF and McNeese Athletics."

As an added bonus, all Cowboy Club and MAF members who attend the live PokeCast show will be able to purchase draft beer for just $1.

"I can't wait to get started and see Poke Nation turn out for the first PokeCast on Wednesday, August 30 at Mr. Bill's. Geaux Pokes!"

[McCowboys]

Big thanks to Hero Sports Sam Herder for joining the Southeastern Sports Network LionUpRadio crew for tonight's podcast. Great stuff talking national FCS and Southland Conference landscape!


https://youtu.be/0CTJ6OcC22U

Thanks! Good to hear Herder's take on things. I guess we may need to chop the SLC trophy in two and send half to SLU and half to UIW. Maybe UIW has an edge just because they get the Lions at home.
As for McNeese, I think an upgrade of talent has been brought in, but the guys are still shaking hands and introducing themselves to one another. A very young team with only four seniors and Saturday's starting lineup shows freshman starters! xeyebrowx

[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b26JBZMMBAY

McNeese Head football coach Gary Goff joins the show to talk about the upcoming season on the eve of the first game. He joins Heath Schroyer and Jim Gazzolo this week on Poke Nation.

[McCowboys]

It looks like it is going to be another long, disappointing season for McNeese. Does Goff know how to find a QB? Last season he brought in two duds, and it looks like he may have done the same, unless you call throwing at receivers feet a good thing. Air raid? More like air shelter! Hats off to Tarleton. They are a good team and should win their share of games this season. However, the McNeese defense was like Swiss cheese, and I have never seen such poor tackling by a Cowboy squad.

There were a few FCS vs. FBS games with the FBS team scoring 70+ points. McNeese plays the Florida Gators in the Swamp, and they are not happy after their loss and poor showing at Utah and will most likely take it out on the Cowboys.

[McNeese75]

The passing attack was my biggest disappointment last night. Tarleton was really big in the receiver and DB area but regardless, the Jon McCall show never showed up.

[lionsrking2]

https://youtu.be/l65DvqVXObo?

[lionsrking2]

The Southeastern Radio Crew sits down with Roy Rojo of Eastern Washington - Sideline Sports to talk Lions/Eagles and the showdown in Cheney, Washington this coming Saturday. Also wrap up last weekend's game with South Alabama.


" target="_blank">
https://youtu.be/ya9iMYmEiOo (https://youtu.be/ya9iMYmEiOo)

[McNeese75]

https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/florida-football/florida-equipment-staff-extends-ultimate-compliment-to-mcneese-state/

Well, Pokes cleaned up with the paycheck and the locker room. xlolx

[lionsrking2]

https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/florida-football/florida-equipment-staff-extends-ultimate-compliment-to-mcneese-state/

Well, Pokes cleaned up with the paycheck and the locker room. xlolx

Nice!

[Puddin Tane]

Thats excellent

[McCowboys]

About the only thing the Southland Conference can count on these days is UIW. And now maybe HCU???

Normal bottom feeder HCU, with a new head coach, rolled into Hammond America and sent shockwaves through the SLC and maybe throughout the whole FCS Nation if they are paying attention with a victory over the homestanding Southeastern Louisiana Lions.

AGS poll voters had dropped SLU out of the AGS poll, but SLU's losses had all come on the road and against two FBS foes and a very good Eastern Washington team. So everyone expected the Lions to handle the Huskies, except the Huskies apparently.

SLU hosts Tarleton State this weekend in an interesting contest.

UIW takes the week off.

The rest of the SLC tries to get its act together, except maybe those surprising Huskies who host Lamar in an SLC contest. McNeese is 0-4, but it took a 50+ field goal with under a minute to go to give EIU Panthers the win. Heartbreaking. McNeese and Nicholls will both be seeking their first victory of the season in an SLC matchup in Lake Charles.

[caribbeanhen]

What is going on with the Lions of SLA?

[McCowboys]

What is going on with the Lions of SLA?

I was hoping lionsrking2 could fill us in. Their offensive production seems to be down a good bit and the secondary is young and inexperienced, but there may be more.

[Puddin Tane]

What is going on with the Lions of SLA?

have they returned to the pre ron roberts SLU? When we brought football back in 2010, Slu was the perennial doormat. we’ve now taken over that role.

Im gonna go with “you have 2 quarterbacks, you have none”. Maybe im wrong, but arent their 2 qbs pretty much identical?

got beat up first 2 games? I was looking at stats, i thought the ewu game was closer, but sela was dominated, stat wise.

Hcu beating them in hammond was a shocker to me.

[LionUp]

have they returned to the pre ron roberts SLU? When we brought football back in 2010, Slu was the perennial doormat. we’ve now taken over that role.

Im gonna go with “you have 2 quarterbacks, you have none”. Maybe im wrong, but arent their 2 qbs pretty much identical?

got beat up first 2 games? I was looking at stats, i thought the ewu game was closer, but sela was dominated, stat wise.

Hcu beating them in hammond was a shocker to me.

It’s like we lost our identity, starting with the QB position. The likely starter was put behind a transfer with a weak resume. Then alternating with no real reason or skill specific reason began happening. Failing QB not converting, missing passes, etc., to then bringing in a proven winner cold off the bench for one series, letting him drive the offense down the field, to going back to the other QB only to stall. Just all over the place with no purpose on offense. That’s not how a team gels and builds trust. That was the first three games.
Defense not bad in spurts, but just not executing for whatever reason. New faces and youth to some degree, but should’ve been bigger and faster. Talent is there but just being out-coached and playing flat. Sure we lost a few serious playmakers to the portal and graduated some seniors, but who didn’t? We replenished and while they have to learn the schemes and gel as a team, I do believe we lose some ‘team’ continuity in that. But not to the degree we saw last Saturday against HCU. Terrible performance from execution to coaching. Saw great first half’s against Mississippi State and South Alabama, but then the trip out to the northwest against EWU started seeing a drop off going into the half a bit more. This week, it was behind from the first series. Yes they pulled back within five points in the game, and frankly stats weren’t terrible outside what HCUs offense hung on our defense and the lack of any run game which wasn’t even attempted, but it was just bad all the way around.

HCU came in hungry with a great game plan and we came out vanilla and didn’t execute well. It’s also obvious our game plan was junk, and the head coach admits that. Tarleton State will tell the story for sure. Not sure if this team can come close to topping the Texans, but if there is any fire left and the coaches have an ounce of creativity, then we might see a turnaround. Not a win necessarily, but a turn in the right direction. If there is not even an inkling of a turnaround with this upcoming game, then I suspect we see a downfall for SLU football similar to 2015.

Could the two FBS opponents, one being SEC and the other from the sunbelt who just knocked off Oklahoma State, have worn them down? And then fly out to Washington to play a formidable FCS opponent exacerbated the situation leading to a very tired team? Maybe. Not out of the question. They did play hard most of the HCU game, but they also looked just flat for what we’re used to. I believe coaching, team cohesion, and lacking role execution(goes back to coaching) is what is to blame. Again, this game with the Texans rolling into town will be a measure for what’s ailing and if it’s being turned back in the right direction.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk LOL

[McCowboys]

have they returned to the pre ron roberts SLU? When we brought football back in 2010, Slu was the perennial doormat. we’ve now taken over that role.

Im gonna go with “you have 2 quarterbacks, you have none”. Maybe im wrong, but arent their 2 qbs pretty much identical?

got beat up first 2 games? I was looking at stats, i thought the ewu game was closer, but sela was dominated, stat wise.

Hcu beating them in hammond was a shocker to me.

I know this question was about SLU, but McNeese is not in good shape either. If we face a team with a rushing attack, we are in trouble. Goff has dismissed some transfers already and a running back who had been with the team for a couple of years was dismissed or left the team. McNeese played lots of true freshmen at EIU and plans to play even more. Lack of team cohesion and leadership, a defense that can't stop the run, and a sporadic offense are haunting the Cowboys.

[McNeese72]

I know this question was about SLU, but McNeese is not in good shape either. If we face a team with a rushing attack, we are in trouble. Goff has dismissed some transfers already and a running back who had been with the team for a couple of years was dismissed or left the team. McNeese played lots of true freshmen at EIU and plans to play even more. Lack of team cohesion and leadership, a defense that can't stop the run, and a sporadic offense are haunting the Cowboys.

We don't have the studs on the defensive line to play the 3-3-5. I remember in the past, our offense's mouth watered when we played teams playing 3 man fronts because we knew we could run all over them. Now the shoe is on the other foot. :(

Doc

[caribbeanhen]

I know this question was about SLU, but McNeese is not in good shape either. If we face a team with a rushing attack, we are in trouble. Goff has dismissed some transfers already and a running back who had been with the team for a couple of years was dismissed or left the team. McNeese played lots of true freshmen at EIU and plans to play even more. Lack of team cohesion and leadership, a defense that can't stop the run, and a sporadic offense are haunting the Cowboys.

Sounds like tough times right now down in Louisiana

[Puddin Tane]

I know this question was about SLU, but McNeese is not in good shape either. If we face a team with a rushing attack, we are in trouble. Goff has dismissed some transfers already and a running back who had been with the team for a couple of years was dismissed or left the team. McNeese played lots of true freshmen at EIU and plans to play even more. Lack of team cohesion and leadership, a defense that can't stop the run, and a sporadic offense are haunting the Cowboys.

if it makes ya feel any better, our rush defense is worse. We’re giving up 6.3 yards an attempt, yall are at 5.5 (and thats without the luxury of playing Lincoln(Ca))

[Puddin Tane]

Just looked, the bottom 10 in rush defense has 4 SLC teams. Lu, Mcneese, NW, and Sela…

that new fangled handing off instead of passing should be banned!

[McCowboys]

Just looked, the bottom 10 in rush defense has 4 SLC teams. Lu, Mcneese, NW, and Sela…

that new fangled handing off instead of passing should be banned!

xlolx Yes! It apparently caught several of us conference mates off guard and unprepared.

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/10/4/football-mcneese-weber-state-sign-home-and-home-series-for-24-25.aspx

LAKE CHARLES – McNeese and Weber State have signed a home-and-home football contract that will see the Cowboys playing in Ogden, Utah on September 28 of next season while the Wildcats will make a return trip to Cowboy Stadium on Sept. 13, 2025, both athletic departments collective announced on Wednesday....

[Puddin Tane]

Wikipedia shows us with SD and two swac teamsxthumbsdownx at home next yr,
with home games vs sac st and uca in 2025

[SpreadTheWord]

Is next season the year in which FCS teams can schedule 12 games?

[McCowboys]

Is next season the year in which FCS teams can schedule 12 games?

Yes

[Puddin Tane]

Wikipedia shows us with SD and two swac teamsxthumbsdownx at home next yr,
with home games vs sac st and uca in 2025

just popped up

Weber St comes to Bmt next year, SD moved to 2025, return trip to Weber in 2028.

[bonarae]

Uh oh. Demons at Colonels cancelled because of the death of a Demons player.

https://fbschedules.com/northwestern-state-at-nicholls-football-game-on-saturday-canceled/

[McCowboys]

https://www.ksla.com/2023/10/13/roommate-nsu-football-player-shot-killed-arrested/

Roommate of NSU football player shot and killed arrestedThe lives of two young men and their families destroyed.

[McCowboys]

https://www.southland.org/news/2023/10/16/football-uiw-moves-into-top-5-of-both-major-polls-lamar-receiving-votes.aspx


https://www.southland.org/images/2023/10/16/101623ranking.jpg
Football 10/16/2023 2:20:43 PM James Hill (@jameshillSID)
UIW Moves into Top 5 of Both Major Polls; Lamar Receiving Votes









Story LinksFRISCO, Texas – UIW checks in at No. 5 in the lastest AFCA FCS Coaches' Top 25 Poll and Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll, presented by FedEx Ground (https://groundcareers.fedex.com/groundcareers/?src=collegepathways&utm_source=FCSSponsorship23&utm_medium=Analyst&utm_campaign=FCSSponsorship23), while Lamar is receiving votes from Stats Perform.

UIW (5-1) climbed two more spots to a season-high No. 5 in the national media polls on Monday. It comes after a 28-11 win over Texas A&M-Commerce as the defense continued to shine. It is the defending Southland Conference co-champion’s fifth in a row since a season-opening FBS loss at UTEP.

It’s been a different kind of season for the Cardinals (5-1, 2-0) under first-year coach Clint Killough. Last year’s FCS semifinalist squad averaged 51.5 points per game, which was second-highest in an FCS season. While the scoring is down to 34.5 points per game, their Steven Parker-led defense is surrendering just 24.7 points on average, by-far the lowest in the program’s Division I history (since 2013).

Meanwhile, after a brutal non-conference schedule and winners of four straight, the Lamar Cardinals began to receive some national love, earning votes in the Stats Perform Poll. The Cardinals move to 4-3 overall and 3-0 in Southland play, after defeating Southestern on the road, 30-24, their best mark 2018 when they won six in a row to close the year and claim a spot in the FCS Playoffs....

[McCowboys]

https://www.southland.org/news/2023/10/16/football-uiw-moves-into-top-5-of-both-major-polls-lamar-receiving-votes.aspx


https://www.southland.org/images/2023/10/16/101623ranking.jpg
Football 10/16/2023 2:20:43 PM James Hill (@jameshillSID)
UIW Moves into Top 5 of Both Major Polls; Lamar Receiving Votes


Story Links

FRISCO, Texas – UIW checks in at No. 5 in the lastest AFCA FCS Coaches' Top 25 Poll and Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll, presented by FedEx Ground (https://groundcareers.fedex.com/groundcareers/?src=collegepathways&utm_source=FCSSponsorship23&utm_medium=Analyst&utm_campaign=FCSSponsorship23), while Lamar is receiving votes from Stats Perform.

UIW (5-1) climbed two more spots to a season-high No. 5 in the national media polls on Monday. It comes after a 28-11 win over Texas A&M-Commerce as the defense continued to shine. It is the defending Southland Conference co-champion’s fifth in a row since a season-opening FBS loss at UTEP.

It’s been a different kind of season for the Cardinals (5-1, 2-0) under first-year coach Clint Killough. Last year’s FCS semifinalist squad averaged 51.5 points per game, which was second-highest in an FCS season. While the scoring is down to 34.5 points per game, their Steven Parker-led defense is surrendering just 24.7 points on average, by-far the lowest in the program’s Division I history (since 2013).

Meanwhile, after a brutal non-conference schedule and winners of four straight, the Lamar Cardinals began to receive some national love, earning votes in the Stats Perform Poll. The Cardinals move to 4-3 overall and 3-0 in Southland play, after defeating Southestern on the road, 30-24, their best mark 2018 when they won six in a row to close the year and claim a spot in the FCS Playoffs....

Keep an eye on Nicholls as well as they are on a winning streak.

SLC Strong!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx6ddvXk6tLMKq_kqAGVLHAMprJRVGWyZcFRWmLnBt7e 1Q-xfyJHxcRzIj34kLSOVLmCGf93mshVq-4F-oZWkZNdsgOzJba1BFgc_HR7MJSnIoQk_NB36j9duv8kvn6TMnB iH1plO1HU31MY22axosxTl7SBhNmbRWUWilRq3dRXxdCIkd6wW E9sfEndIV/w278-h106/!SLC%20earned%20every%20day.jpg (https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6383734359116918752/4326271729124102984#)

[McCowboys]

Southland Conference announces Football Standings procedure
FRISCO, Texas – Based on the decision by Northwestern State University to cancel the remainder of its 2023 Football season, the Southland Conference announced updated standings procedures for the rest of the 2023 season.

The following standings procedures will apply:

Northwestern State's conference games played against Lamar and Southeastern Louisiana will stand as wins.
The previously cancelled games against Nicholls and McNeese and the remaining games against HCU, UIW and Texas A&M-Commerce will be declared as a no contest per NCAA rules.
The contests against Nicholls, McNeese, HCU, UIW and Texas A&M-Commerce will count as wins for conference standing purposes only.
After the scheduled game dates, the "wins" will be added to the conference standings only. They will not be reflected in the overall records per NCAA policy. Since the Nicholls contest date has passed, it will be updated in the conference standings immediately.
The Commissioner Cup standings points will utilize the above-mentioned conference standings procedure.

For 2023 NCAA Postseason considerations:

The NCAA does not recognize forfeits unless game/match officials render such a decision once event begins and is under officials' control.
The NCAA will not reflect "no contests" per its statistics policies.
The FCS Selection Committee will not take forfeited contests into consideration when evaluating teams for possible postseason inclusion.


With the updated standings, Nicholls and UIW stand at 4-0 in the conference as the league's only undefeated teams. The Colonels travel to San Antonio this weekend (Nov. 4) for a 3 p.m. matchup.

[McCowboys]

Updated conference standings after Northwestern State cancels the remainder of its season. NSU's forfeiture will count as wins for the other teams in the conference only in SLC standings. The NCAA does not recognize forfeits.



Updated SLC Standings:

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMp17I9e3CDBkVn7GykgXInfhPMaC8LX9XRR3oMWxM-EiwbjwrBHCsfpAi95u0YOqyKIlr8Eyz1QLG8c87fQpcBmjl1jy 487JTdWx-8jnKIhfr3hoLso74BZZnBTZbT0RoAnWZPl9zZH_D83XECZsQyk 4HDp0DmOUn6yCILB-WDYkZ5A_mkm34geXNzqu/w598-h248/Screenshot%202023-10-31%20072655.jpg (https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6383734359116918752/5067217010353427177#)

[McCowboys]

https://www.southland.org/news/2023/11/12/nicholls-wins-first-southland-football-title-since-2019-earns-conferences-aq.aspx

Nicholls Wins First Southland Football Title Since 2019; Earns Conference's AQIn preseason, I was high on Nicholls and was greeted with derision. Why? They asked. Well, I saw a veteran team, lots of experience, and Guggenheim. The Colonels started off the season 0-3 as they played a killer schedule. Then it took them some time to get it together. Are they top 10 or top 15? I would say no. But they are the SLC champs and the SLC's automatic qualifier.

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/11/17/football-battle-of-the-border-renews-on-saturday.aspx

BATTLE OF THE BORDER RENEWS ON SATURDAY


Mmmmmmm! Almost time for some Cardinal gumbo! Geaux Pokes!

[Puddin Tane]

https://www.southland.org/news/2023/11/12/nicholls-wins-first-southland-football-title-since-2019-earns-conferences-aq.aspx

Nicholls Wins First Southland Football Title Since 2019; Earns Conference's AQ

In preseason, I was high on Nicholls and was greeted with derision. Why? They asked. Well, I saw a veteran team, lots of experience, and Guggenheim. The Colonels started off the season 0-3 as they played a killer schedule. Then it took them some time to get it together. Are they top 10 or top 15? I would say no. But they are the SLC champs and the SLC's automatic qualifier.

i was more impressed with spears than guggenheim. I think hes been at too many keggers.

[Puddin Tane]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/11/17/football-battle-of-the-border-renews-on-saturday.aspx

BATTLE OF THE BORDER RENEWS ON SATURDAY


Mmmmmmm! Almost time for some Cardinal gumbo! Geaux Pokes!

Cards gonna roll the pokes!!! Peck em!

[acbearkat]

Cards gonna roll the pokes!!! Peck em!

Getting rid of Blaine Morgan who was a terrible fit, has helped.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Puddin Tane]

Getting rid of Blaine Morgan who was a terrible fit, has helped.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

he was totally clueless

[McCowboys]

https://nsudemons.com/news/2023/11/28/demon-football-nsu-names-blaine-mccorkle-head-football-coach.aspx

NSU names Blaine McCorkle head football coach

[McCowboys]

McNeese to face LSU in 2026 and 2029 (hope the Cowboys are more competitive by then):

https://fbschedules.com/lsu-adds-mcneese-to-2026-2029-football-schedules/?fbclid=IwAR0WQiPVkuVLYxpC7z8ebalCsJhbluGagjLAvsow HdGJIQoXRvUWMPdaZ9s

LSU adds McNeese to 2026, 2029 football schedules (https://fbschedules.com/lsu-adds-mcneese-to-2026-2029-football-schedules/)

[McNeese72]

Well, football sucked this season, but it looks like basketball is going to be a hell of a lot of fun!!!

Doc

[Libertine]

https://nsudemons.com/news/2023/11/28/demon-football-nsu-names-blaine-mccorkle-head-football-coach.aspx

NSU names Blaine McCorkle head football coach



https://twitter.com/zach_barnett/status/1729514704270164208

I said it another thread but this is a stud hire for Northwestern State.

You're going to need a couple years to see the results but this is a best-case scenario for the Demons.

[McCowboys]

https://www.southland.org/news/2023/12/7/southland-conference-announces-2024-conference-football-schedule.aspx

Southland Conference Announces 2024 Conference Football Schedule
2024 Southland Conference Football Schedule

Saturday, September 28
Nicholls at A&M-Commerce

Saturday, October 5
Southeastern at HCU
Lamar at Northwestern State

Saturday, October 12
HCU at Lamar
Nicholls at UIW
A&M-Commerce at McNeese

Saturday, October 19
HCU at A&M-Commerce
McNeese at UIW
Northwestern State at Southeastern

Saturday, October 26
UIW at Northwestern State
Southeastern at Lamar
McNeese at Nicholls

Saturday, November 2
Nicholls at HCU
Lamar at UIW
Southeastern at McNeese
Northwestern State at A&M-Commerce

Saturday, November 9
McNeese at HCU
UIW at Southeastern
Lamar at A&M-Commerce
Northwestern State at Nicholls

Saturday, November 16
HCU at UIW
McNeese at Northwestern State
Nicholls at Lamar
A&M-Commerce at Southeastern

Thursday, November 21
Southeastern at Nicholls

Saturday, November 23
HCU at Northwestern State
UIW at A&M-Commerce
Lamar at McNeese

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2023/12/20/update-mcneese-football-2024-early-signees.aspx

UPDATE: MCNEESE FOOTBALL 2024 EARLY SIGNEES (FINAL LIST)

[McCowboys]

https://twitter.com/NCAA_FCS/status/1737553848938766753
33237

[McCowboys]

https://twitter.com/SouthlandSports/status/1737153401509568727

33238

[Puddin Tane]

Surprised the cajuns or the gawd awful purple team havent got him portal on over

[McCowboys]

Surprised the cajuns or the gawd awful purple team havent got him portal on over

Same here. I hope he is happy at McNeese and some people are putting in some good NIL money. Maybe he and his famous father Rohan realize he can make it in the pros even if he plays at a smaller school, and God knows he is raking in the awards (5 national awards). He might want to stay another year or two and then really shoot for the Big Boys. ?

This guy Defensive End 6'4" 268 lbs Masey Lewis will be a redshirt sophomore. His brother Sandy just signed and is a 3-star linebacker. Had offers from Alabama and other Power 5 schools, but I think as a walkon, and he chose to stay local and play with his brother.

The good news is McNeese needs IMMEDIATE help, and 16 of the 19 will be in school in January and ready for spring ball.

[lionsrking2]

On a positive note, with the glut of high school and JC talent bottlenecked in the recruiting pipeline, we may have signed our most talented class ever. On the downside, a number of them are likely somebody else's players in two or three years. It's the world we live in now.

https://lionsports.net/news/2023/12/20/football-southeastern-adds-23-for-2024.aspx


https://youtu.be/n804VMA3iOY

[Puddin Tane]

Same here. I hope he is happy at McNeese and some people are putting in some good NIL money. Maybe he and his famous father Rohan realize he can make it in the pros even if he plays at a smaller school, and God knows he is raking in the awards (5 national awards). He might want to stay another year or two and then really shoot for the Big Boys. ?

This guy Defensive End 6'4"268 lbs Masey Lewis will be a redshirt sophomore. His brother Sandy just signed and is a 3-star linebacker. Had offers from Alabama and other Power 5 schools, but I think as a walkon, and he chose to stay local and play with his brother.

The good news is McNeese needs IMMEDIATE help, and 16 of the 19 will be in school in January and ready for spring ball.


i think davey was in on every tackle vs Lamar. Heck of a player. Hope he stays.

[Puddin Tane]

Looks like we had a good signing class. A little different in that we usually hit Acadiana and New Orleans pretty hard. Only one kid from Louisiana, way up in Monroe.

Got a lot from East Tex and Dallas area. We dont seem to have much luck in dfw kids sticking aroung. We’ll see.

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2023/12/21/new-direction-mcneese-hires-ingram-to-head-recruiting/

The American Press has learned that McNeese hired Aaron Ingram for the position of Chief of Football Operations Tuesday. Ingram will head a still-being-formed recruiting department for Cowboy football. “This is a big step in the right direction for us,” said McNeese head coach Gary Goff. “This is a pivotal position and a really big addition to our program.”

McNeese will be the third Southland Conference football program to have such a recruiting department. Currently both Incarnate Word and Houston Christian have such departments.....

“This will really benefit how we go about recruiting,” said Goff. “It will free up our coaches and now we will have somebody who will be in the transfer portal 24 hours a day. That is very important now.”


Read more at: https://www.americanpress.com/2023/12/21/new-direction-mcneese-hires-ingram-to-head-recruiting/

[bonarae]

Demons players get waivers due to the shortened season last year.

https://nsudemons.com/news/2023/12/27/demon-football-ncaa-approves-waivers-for-demon-football.aspx

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2024/2/7/mcneese-football-adds-10-transfers-on-national-signing-day.aspx

After a disastrous 2023 season, nowhere to go but up, I hope.

LAKE CHARLES – McNeese football coach Gary Goff (https://mcneesesports.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/gary-goff/1823) announced the signing of 10 mid-year signees in addition to the 19 signed back in December to bring the total amount to 29 new Cowboys to scholarships.

Also on Wednesday, 13 high school players were added and will join the squad in the fall.

The mid-year signees included five FBS transfers and when including the early signees, a total of 11 players from the FBS ranks.

According to Athlinkd on X, formerly Twitter, McNeese is ranked No. 6 among schools in all NCAA divisions in transfer signing class and the top in the FCS with the highest roster improvement.

[McCowboys]

March is known for MADNESS, but our Football Cowboys plan on adding to it !! Come out and see the Cowboys this Spring!
#GeauxPokes (https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6383734359116918752/1862201787165428183#) | #WeDAT (https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6383734359116918752/1862201787165428183#)
McNeese Spring Football 2024

33301

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBNPh5mPV1ZuIY6MGPK8838clam93ejbN3COkQutD6B o7jrL0VMluK282_G6VBfTkrDb94dxvSiv9Owh6Vfof_gv4iXDK F1u06W_9kCutgPF99vuQHQlTs2HvCi1S8mW_DXBRiu5iryijS0 mko2G8P0kJMMju2HRuH1a9KJ6frqUzIeaTr8a6uYspsHOt/w410-h468/mcneese%20spring%20football%202024.jpg (https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6383734359116918752/1862201787165428183#)

[Libertine]

Demons players get waivers due to the shortened season last year.

https://nsudemons.com/news/2023/12/27/demon-football-ncaa-approves-waivers-for-demon-football.aspx

Wow! I don't know if that's entirely unprecedented but I certainly don't remember entire program essentially getting a "do-over year".

[bonarae]

Meanwhile... UTRGV planning to enter the SLC from the WAC. Bad move for them?

[lionsrking2]

Meanwhile... UTRGV planning to enter the SLC from the WAC. Bad move for them?

Terrible for us. We need out now.

[McCowboys]

https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/39774537/university-texas-rio-grande-valley-set-exit-wac-southland?fbclid=IwAR1Uh-kAaHG46BSvYnRH7by1sg-sOAghX5GheUluHy8cEnS3Pc6nK-XGs6k

[WestCoastAggie]

Terrible for us. We need out now.

How so? Travel? Academic fit?

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GJM8e6uWcAAbEjJ?format=jpg&name=medium

[lionsrking2]

How so? Travel? Academic fit?

Travel is brutal

[ST_Lawson]

Travel is brutal

Even with UTRGV, it still looks like a pretty compact conference. I don't think any other conference would be better for you guys at this point. OVC is too far north, UAC is spread all over the place from Eastern Kentucky to Southern Utah.

[Laker]

Women's soccer can go to the Southland, but what about the men?

[lionsrking2]

Even with UTRGV, it still looks like a pretty compact conference. I don't think any other conference would be better for you guys at this point. OVC is too far north, UAC is spread all over the place from Eastern Kentucky to Southern Utah.

Obviously you’ve never driven west on I-10 through Louisiana, Houston and points west and south. What may look like an easy drive on paper can often take an hour or two more than is should due to traffic, accidents, construction, etc. The league was fine when Sam and SFA were in the league and before Abilene. Abilene is now out but Edinburg, Tx is further and tougher to get to than Abilene. While there is no current league setup more geographically favorable, with West Georgia moving up, and likely West Florida and Valdosta in near future, an expanded ASUN would be a better fit. If McNeese moves up, as their folks claim they’re going to do, that would give SLU and Nicholls the out to move on. A league of SLU, Nicholls, UCA, West Florida, Valdosta, North Alabama, Austin Peay, UTM, Tennessee Tech and SEMO would be better for us and our fans than traveling to freaking Texas all the time - especially Edinburg, San Antonio and Commerce.

Now, if SFA comes back, ULM drops down, McNeese stays put and we could somehow lure West Florida into the Southland, I’d have no problem staying. We need some movement on the eastern, non-Texas side. Texas fatigue is a real thing in these parts.

[SFA 93]

SFA just might be coming back to the SLC.

[McCowboys]

SFA just might be coming back to the SLC.

What could cause that to happen? New administration. Or if not, what is the holdup?

Honestly, I hated when y'all left because I really loved hating you guys. :) Is the Rev still around?

[McCowboys]

Obviously you’ve never driven west on I-10 through Louisiana, Houston and points west and south. What may look like an easy drive on paper can often take an hour or two more than is should due to traffic, accidents, construction, etc. The league was fine when Sam and SFA were in the league and before Abilene. Abilene is now out but Edinburg, Tx is further and tougher to get to than Abilene. While there is no current league setup more geographically favorable, with West Georgia moving up, and likely West Florida and Valdosta in near future, an expanded ASUN would be a better fit. If McNeese moves up, as their folks claim they’re going to do, that would give SLU and Nicholls the out to move on. A league of SLU, Nicholls, UCA, West Florida, Valdosta, North Alabama, Austin Peay, UTM, Tennessee Tech and SEMO would be better for us and our fans than traveling to freaking Texas all the time - especially Edinburg, San Antonio and Commerce.

Now, if SFA comes back, ULM drops down, McNeese stays put and we could somehow lure West Florida into the Southland, I’d have no problem staying. We need some movement on the eastern, non-Texas side. Texas fatigue is a real thing in these parts.

I live in the Houston area and what you say about the travel is true. Just trying to make it to Lake Chuck, I have sat on the freeway numerous times for accidents and hazmat spills.

The last year the SLC basketball tourney was held in Katy, the Cowgirls left LC around noon and planned to get there around 3 PM for a shoot around and dinner and such. Well, they were stuck on I-10 due to some major accident and didn't make it to Katy until around 7 PM!

[SFA 93]

Yes, Rev is still around, you see him on the Sawmill message boards from time to time.

The rumor mill has it that budget cuts are coming for the SFA athletics department and to save on travel expenses, it would be best to go back to the SLC.

Our AD Ryan Ivey left to be the new AD at Louisiana Tech.

Ivey was really focused on getting SFA to the FBS level through the WAC on a five year plan that just was not happening.

Going 0-6 in the UAC didn't help.

We'll have to see who we get for our new AD and see their input on the situation.

[McCowboys]

Yes, Rev is still around, you see him on the Sawmill message boards from time to time.

The rumor mill has it that budget cuts are coming for the SFA athletics department and to save on travel expenses, it would be best to go back to the SLC.

Our AD Ryan Ivey left to be the new AD at Louisiana Tech.

Ivey was really focused on getting SFA to the FBS level through the WAC on a five year plan that just was not happening.

Going 0-6 in the UAC didn't help.

We'll have to see who we get for our new AD and see their input on the situation.

Yeah, it was very tempting for McNeese and the fans who are gungho about going FBS, and we might have made the move to the WAC, but our financial situation after the back-to-back hurricanes probably was one big reason we didn't. And then SHSU and NMSU went to C-USA, and that conference wasn't interested in McNeese at that time. It looks like that boat has long sailed.

So Carthel will be retained? Is that a budgetary decision, too? Yeah, Ryan Ivey was at McNeese in the past, too.

It was great having a hated rival like Lamar return, and a new president and AD led them back, and it will be good if the Jacks return. Our men might just beat you in basketball for once, at least once. ;-) I worked with a good many SFA alums and for the most part they are good people. Long ago my daddy earned is master's degree at SFA. So there are connections for me.

[SFA 93]

Yes, Carthel is still with us, but he'll no doubt be on the hot seat with the new AD since Ivey hired him.

Carthel did get a new OC as Storm was let go, and I think buying out Carthel is not in the budget.

The football program definitely took a step backwards.

I like Carthel, he is a nice guy, but things just are not coming like they should, lot's of near loses, and the last three loses to Sam Houston were so frustrating.

[lionsrking2]

SFA just might be coming back to the SLC.

Now that makes a lot of sense and a good fit for us travel-wise.

[lionsrking2]

I live in the Houston area and what you say about the travel is true. Just trying to make it to Lake Chuck, I have sat on the freeway numerous times for accidents and hazmat spills.

The last year the SLC basketball tourney was held in Katy, the Cowgirls left LC around noon and planned to get there around 3 PM for a shoot around and dinner and such. Well, they were stuck on I-10 due to some major accident and didn't make it to Katy until around 7 PM!

It took almost 11 hours to get from Hammond to San Antonio in 2021. It doesn't always take that long but rarely is there never construction at some point along the way on I-10. The same distance driving anywhere towards Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Florida will take 7 to 7 1/2 hours, 8 hours tops. It's a coin flip whether you can get across the Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge or across the Atchafalaya basin without something slowing you down. Getting through Houston is a coin flip as well.

[bonarae]

McNeese just down to TWO QBs... xsmhx then sign three JUCOs in different positions.

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2024/3/27/football-caps-spring-with-thursday-scrimmage-sign-three-transfers-to-roster.aspx

[McNeese75]

Current coaching staff is under the gun. If these decisions don't work out well to quote a famous shark hunting captain "Farewell and adieu to you, fair Spanish ladies. Farewell and adieu, you ladies of Spain..."

[Puddin Tane]

Even with UTRGV, it still looks like a pretty compact conference. I don't think any other conference would be better for you guys at this point. OVC is too far north, UAC is spread all over the place from Eastern Kentucky to Southern Utah.

adding utrgv is a yawner for me. Thats a long way down there.

[Puddin Tane]

Current coaching staff is under the gun. If these decisions don't work out well to quote a famous shark hunting captain "Farewell and adieu to you, fair Spanish ladies. Farewell and adieu, you ladies of Spain..."

i really enjoyed McNeese’s football season last year!

[Puddin Tane]

It took almost 11 hours to get from Hammond to San Antonio in 2021. It doesn't always take that long but rarely is there never construction at some point along the way on I-10. The same distance driving anywhere towards Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Florida will take 7 to 7 1/2 hours, 8 hours tops. It's a coin flip whether you can get across the Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge or across the Atchafalaya basin without something slowing you down. Getting through Houston is a coin flip as well.

we go to Lafayette quite a bit. interstate from the border to Lake Chuck is often a parking lot. And bumper car Beaumont needs a loop, but theres nowhere to build one.

[lionsrking2]

we go to Lafayette quite a bit. interstate from the border to Lake Chuck is often a parking lot. And bumper car Beaumont needs a loop, but theres nowhere to build one.

That's what folks don't realize when we complain about travel in the Southland. What looks easy or manageable on paper can be brutal more often than not. We played Southern Illinois in Carbondale during the Covid season and that drive was way easier than getting to San Antonio which is about the same distance. Anything to our north and east is usually pretty easy with minimal traffic. Just getting west across I-10 through Baton Rouge to Lake Charles can be a chore. Not always but it's a 50/50 crap shoot. Then through Beaumont to Houston and anything beyond is dreadful. The league was just fine when SFA, Sam and UCA were on board, and before UIW and ACU. I really don't mind Commerce but UTRGV is a bridge too far as far as I'm concerned.

[McCowboys]

i really enjoyed McNeese’s football season last year!

I'm in favor of sending Lamar back to the WAC. Pluck those birds! Cardinal gumbo!

Geaux Pokes!

[SFA 93]

SFA hires West Texas A&M AD Michael McBroom as new AD.

Lots of rumors that SFA is headed back to the SLC, will see what McBroom has to say about it.

Maybe ACU follows SFA.

https://sfajacks.com/news/2024/4/25/general-mcbroom-named-sfas-director-of-athletics

[McCowboys]

As posted on another thread, The WAC has lost two teams to the WCC. The WAC is now down to 8 schools, five of those with football programs - and of those five, two are in Utah and three are in Texas.

If the WAC hangs on, those football schools would need to continue its association with the ASun in the United league. But as far as basketball, would be losing a couple of its best teams.

Even before this happening, there have been rumors that SFA would return to the SLC (with some of their fans being dragged screaming and kicking all the way back.) If so, there is a possibility ACU and Tarleton would tag along. However, these three Texas schools could possibly join the Summit or OVC, but that would still entail a lot of travel.

Whatever happens should happen soon, and it will be interesting to see how this will affect the SLC.

[SFA 93]

It doesn't get more travel friendly than this.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GOYB01hWMAAZk7C?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

It doesn't get more travel friendly than this.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GOYB01hWMAAZk7C?format=jpg&name=medium

Welcome back, though I feel as though you SFA 93, never really left. It is a nice compact conference.

[lionsrking2]

It doesn't get more travel friendly than this.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GOYB01hWMAAZk7C?format=jpg&name=medium

Exclude Corpus, UIW and UTRGV and you would be correct.

[McCowboys]

A subscription is normally required for this substack, but Kyle McDonald has made this article free. Not long ago, the SLC was in a precarious situation. Now it is the WAC facing uncertainty, and it doesn't look good:

https://www.wachoopsnation.com/p/oh-what-could-have-been-what-will-now-not-be?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2 (https://www.wachoopsnation.com/p/oh-what-could-have-been-what-will-now-not-be?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2)

Oh, What Could Have Been? And What Will Now Not Be...The WAC, with the new additions, was in a spot to be a great mid-major basketball league. Now, the WAC may be in danger of non-existence.KYLE MCDONALD (https://substack.com/@wachoopsdigest)

MAY 26, 2024

[McCowboys]

https://www.southland.org/news/2024/5/29/general-sfa-athletics-accepts-invitation-to-join-southland-conference-in-2024-25.aspx?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3HKu0zMX3E7FenN XwGTMrE-JwnWX3cU1bvc9VXadMYOfSKxjkoHcmvsCQ_aem_AcgrfxocrbL TwMng4HRSkuIGJn03LTVqTUXCCeugXw029BnNNNWF-muhi0CwoqFiwsSdW_AXc1yTg46V0xgqv3gY

SFA Athletics Accepts Invitation to Join Southland Conference in 2024-25NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced on May 29th, 2024, that it has accepted an invitation to join the Southland Conference as a full-time member beginning July 1st, 2024.

“We are in a dynamic, new era of college athletics,” said Michael McBroom, SFA Director of Athletics. “We need stability, but also bold and strategic thinking to ensure a bright future for SFA. The SLC is a conference on the rise, with visionary leadership and a strategic plan that aligns with our own goals for our athletics program and the university. This affiliation puts in an incredibly competitive and historic athletic community, aligns us with regional peers in Texas and Louisiana and allows us a greater opportunity to engage with our alumni, fans and prospective students across the entire region. This was an easy decision for us in that the SLC offered us an opportunity to boldly move forward with confidence and excitement.”
"We are thrilled to announce SFA’s membership in the Southland Conference, which marks a significant step forward for our athletics program and our university as a whole,” said Dr. Neal Weaver, SFA University President. “Joining the SLC not only provides our student-athletes with enhanced collegiate experience and exposure but also aligns with our commitment to excellence in all areas. We look forward to fostering new and old rivalries, strengthening our community engagement, and showcasing the incredible talent and spirit of our student body.”

The acceptance into the SLC is a homecoming of sorts, reuniting SFA with the Southland where they spent 34 seasons and amassed 111 conference titles. Women’s basketball and volleyball led the way with 18 conference titles followed by soccer with 14, and women’s indoor and outdoor track each recorded 10 titles. Women’s cross country have won eight titles, men’s basketball and men’s cross country have won five, football, softball and men’s indoor track each have four, and men’s and women’s golf each have three conference titles. Overall, SFA has earned 285 individual conference titles between men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s cross country, and men’s and women’s indoor/outdoor track and field.

SFA's tenure in the Southland began in 1984 and saw the 'Jacks rise to become one of the top athletic programs in the league. SFA has aims to continue its high standard for athletic competition and academic performance in the return to the Southland.

The Lumberjacks will compete in the Southland Conference in football, baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s indoor/outdoor track & field, men’s and women’s golf, women’s volleyball, women’s soccer, softball, beach volleyball and women’s tennis.

Bowling will continue to compete in Conference USA.

The move brings the Southland Conference's membership to 12 institutions, including Houston Christian, Incarnate Word, Lamar, McNeese, New Orleans, Nicholls, Northwestern State, Southeastern Louisiana, Texas A&M-Commerce, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

SFA will be one of seven Texas-based institutions in the Southland Conference, with the other five in nearby Louisiana.

“It is a privilege to welcome a proven winner both athletically and academically in Stephen F. Austin to the Southland Conference,” Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant exclaimed. “As we continue to see a trending evolution in college athletics, we are proud to continue our upward momentum and build upon our rich geographic footprint with an institution that shares like-minded priorities that put the student-athlete first. Historically and currently in its leadership, SFA has shown a commitment to success in its athletic department that strengthens our league and enhances the competitive spirit within our conference.”

SFA’s return to the Southland Conference will dramatically decrease the amount of travel for student-athletes. This will also decrease the number of days student-athletes are missing class days as well as travel expenses which will be reinvested in the student-athlete experience and greater economic impact for Nacogdoches and East Texas. With all the Southland schools located in Texas and Louisiana, teams will be able to play all of their conference games in the central time zone and be closer to home which will allow for better rest and recovery for student-athletes.

The smaller footprint allows more opportunities for families, alumni and future student-athletes to attend SFA games at home and on the road. Competition in this footprint will help the university enhance its brand, image and marketability as it looks to grow enrollment and alumni engagement.

The Southland Conference was founded in 1963 with institutions including Lamar, which has spent a total of 49 years in the conference. In total, the 10 current full-time members have an average tenure of 25 years, providing remarkable stability.

With an office based in Frisco, the Southland Conference is the reason the NCAA Division I FCS National Championship is contested in Texas, hosting the football title game in Frisco since 2010. The Southland Conference has already secured the championship game through 2025. The Southland Conference has made its impact on the NFL as well, with 11 alumni on NFL rosters in 2021 and seven in 2022. Two Southland alums were most recently selected in the 2024 NFL Draft in Jalyx Hunt of HCU by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round and Levi Drake Rodriguez of Texas A&M-Commerce by the Minnesota Vikings in the seventh round.

Southland Conference teams have won 18 games in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, including Texas A&M-Corpus Christi last year. This season, the McNeese Cowboys entered March Madness as a 12-seed, the highest seed a Southland member has earned since 2015. The Southland Conference has sent 16 players to the NBA, including SFA Men’s Basketball legend Kevon Harris, who is currently with the Orlando Magic.

The Southland Conference changed its basketball scheduling matrix this year, playing men's conference contests on Saturday and Mondays and women's contests on Thursdays and Saturdays. Conference institutions host men's and women's basketball doubleheaders on Saturdays.
The Monday games allow Southland Conference institutions and men's basketball student-athletes to receive increased exposure by competing on a day with fewer other sporting events, leading to more games on ESPN linear networks and increased viewership on ESPN+.
Men's and women's basketball games receive increased exposure by not having to compete at the same time as the institution's other basketball team. This is both a benefit for both the teams and for fans, who no longer have to choose which game to watch but can instead watch both.
This innovative scheduling arrangement, along with exciting play on the court, has led to Southland Conference institutions being featured on Sportscenter's Top 10 plays 18 times this season.

[McCowboys]

https://sfajacks.com/news/2024/5/29/sfa-accepts-bid-to-southland-conference-for-2024-25-season

SFA Accepts Bid to Southland Conference for 2024-25 SeasonNACOGDOCHES, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University's Department of Athletics has accepted an invitation to join the Southland Conference as a full-time member effective July 1.

"We are in a dynamic, new era of college athletics," said Michael McBroom, SFA's director of athletics. "We need stability but also bold and strategic thinking to ensure a bright future for SFA. The SLC is a conference on the rise, with visionary leadership and a strategic plan that aligns with our own goals for our athletics program and the university. This affiliation puts us in an incredibly competitive and historic athletic community, aligns us with regional peers in Texas and Louisiana and allows us a greater opportunity to engage with our alumni, fans and prospective students across the entire region. This was an easy decision for us in that the SLC offered us an opportunity to boldly move forward with confidence and excitement."

The acceptance into the SLC is a homecoming of sorts, reuniting SFA with the conference where they spent 34 seasons and amassed 111 conference championships. Women's basketball and volleyball led the way with 18 conference titles, followed by soccer with 14, and women's indoor and outdoor track with 10 titles each. Women's cross-country has won eight titles; men's basketball and men's cross-country have won five; football, softball and men's indoor track each have four; and men's and women's golf each have three conference titles.

Overall, SFA has earned 285 individual conference titles between men's and women's golf, men's and women's cross-country, and men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field.

"We are thrilled to announce SFA's membership in the Southland Conference, which marks a significant step forward for our athletics program and our university as a whole," said Dr. Neal Weaver, SFA president. "Joining the SLC not only provides our student-athletes with an enhanced collegiate experience and exposure but also aligns with our commitment to excellence in all areas. We look forward to fostering new and old rivalries, strengthening our community engagement, and showcasing the incredible talent and spirit of our student body."

SFA's tenure in the SLC began in 1984 and saw the Jacks become one of the top athletic programs in the conference. SFA aims to continue its high standard for athletic competition and academic performance.

The Lumberjacks will compete in the SLC in football, baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross-country, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field, men's and women's golf, volleyball, soccer, softball, beach volleyball and tennis.

Bowling will continue to compete in Conference USA.

"It is a privilege to welcome a proven winner both athletically and academically in SFA to the Southland Conference," said Chris Grant, SLC commissioner. "As we continue to see a trending evolution in college athletics, we are proud to continue our upward momentum and build upon our rich geographic footprint with an institution that shares like-minded priorities that put the student-athlete first. Historically and currently in its leadership, SFA has shown a commitment to success in its athletic department that strengthens our league and enhances the competitive spirit within our conference."

SFA's inclusion will bring the SLC's membership to 12 institutions, including seven Texas-based institutions and five in Louisiana. SLC institutions include Houston Christian University, University of the Incarnate Word, Lamar University, McNeese State University, The University of New Orleans, Nicholls State University, Northwestern State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, Texas A&M University-Commerce, and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley will also join the SLC July 1.

SFA's return to the Southland Conference will dramatically decrease the amount of travel for student-athletes. This initiative also will decrease the number of class days student-athletes will miss as well decrease travel expenses that will be reinvested in the student-athlete experience and provide a greater economic impact for Nacogdoches and East Texas.

Additionally, teams will be able to play all of their conference games in the Central time zone and be closer to home, which will allow for better rest and recovery for student-athletes.

The smaller conference footprint allows more opportunities for families, alumni and future student-athletes to attend SFA games at home and on the road. Competition in this footprint will help the university enhance its brand, image and marketability as it looks to grow enrollment and alumni engagement.

The SLC was founded in 1963. Current conference full-time members have an average tenure of 25 years, providing remarkable stability.

With an office based in Frisco, the Southland Conference is the reason the NCAA Division I FCS National Championship is contested in Texas, hosting the football title game in Frisco since 2010. The Southland Conference has already secured the championship game through 2025. The Southland Conference has made its impact on the NFL as well, with 11 alumni on NFL rosters in 2021 and seven in 2022. Two Southland alums were most recently selected in the 2024 NFL Draft in Jalyx Hunt of HCU by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round and Levi Drake Rodriguez of Texas A&M-Commerce by the Minnesota Vikings in the seventh round.

SLC teams have won 18 games in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, including TAMU Corpus Christi last year. This season, the MSU entered March Madness as a 12-seed, the highest seed a SLC member has earned since 2015. The SLC has sent 16 players to the NBA, including SFA's Kevon Harris (https://sfajacks.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/kevon-harris/134), who currently plays for the Orlando Magic.

The SLC changed its basketball scheduling matrix this year, playing men's conference contests on Saturdays and Mondays and women's contests on Thursdays and Saturdays. Conference institutions will host men's and women's basketball doubleheaders on Saturdays.

The Monday games allow Southland Conference institutions and men's basketball student-athletes to receive increased exposure by competing on a day with fewer sporting events, leading to more games on ESPN linear networks and increased viewership on ESPN+. Additionally, with men's and women's teams not competing at the same time allows teams and fans to watch both games.

This increased exposure has led to SLC institutions to be featured on ESPN's SportsCenter's Top 10 plays 18 times this season.

For more information, contact SFA Athletics at (936) 468-3501.

ABOUT STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY
Stephen F. Austin State University, the newest member of The University of Texas System, began a century ago as a teachers' college in Texas' oldest town, Nacogdoches. Today, it has grown into a regional institution comprising six colleges — business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, liberal and applied arts, and sciences and mathematics. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, SFA enrolls approximately 11,000 students while providing the academic breadth of a state university with the personalized attention of a private school. The main campus encompasses 421 acres that include 37 academic facilities, nine residence halls, and 68 acres of recreational trails that wind through its six gardens. The university offers more than 80 bachelor's degrees, more than 40 master's degrees and four doctoral degrees covering more than 120 areas of study. Learn more at sfasu.edu.

[Catbooster]

On Friday, SFA cancelled their series with us (Bozeman this year on Sept 14, @SFA next year Sept 13).

Our AD was able to get a home game against Mercyhurst (NEC) instead this year (Sept 21). Would have been a much better game if SFA were coming, I suspect. I'm sure we're paying Mercyhurst to come out here, but at least we were able to get a replacement game against an FCS opponent.

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2024/05/29/sfa-makes-return-official/

SFA makes return official Published 12:21 pm Wednesday, May 29, 2024 By Jim Gazzolo

Stephen F. Austin is returning to the Southland Conference.

The Lumberjacks will re-join the league effective July 1 and compete in all sports beginning this fall, including football. The official announcement came Wednesday morning, as the school and conference ended weeks of rumors and speculation with a statement. “It is a privilege to welcome a proven winner both athletically and academically in Stephen F. Austin to the Southland Conference,” Commissioner Chris Grant said. “As we continue to see a trending evolution in college athletics, we are proud to continue our upward momentum and build upon our rich geographic footprint with an institution that shares like-minded priorities that put the student-athlete first.”

The return of SFA just three years after the school helped lead a mass exit to the Western Athletic Conference is a huge win for both Grant and the Southland. “We are in a dynamic, new era of college athletics,” said Michael McBroom, SFA Director of Athletics. “We need stability, but also bold and strategic thinking to ensure a bright future for SFA. “The SLC is a conference on the rise, with visionary leadership and a strategic plan that aligns with our own goals for our athletics program and the university. This was an easy decision for us in that the SLC offered us an opportunity to boldly move forward with confidence and excitement.”

Southland officials are working at redoing all schedules currently. New football schedules are expected to be released Thursday, according to sources. Look for some changes to the McNeese State schedule as SFA is expected to make a trip to Lake Charles in their return to the conference.

SFA becomes the second team that will leave the crumbling Western Athletic Conference for the Southland this year, joining Texas-Rio Grande Valley which announced in April it was moving. UTRGV will start playing football in 2025. The two additions will give the Southland 12 teams, 10 of which have football.

According to sources, WAC members Abilene Christian, Tarleton State and Texas-Arlington made overtures to SLC officials about possible movement recently. That came following Grand Canyon and Seattle bolting from the WAC for the West Coast Conference, leaving the WAC’s future in question. That appears to be a non-starter presently as the Southland seems to be willing to play the waiting game when it comes to future expansion.

“I love the addition of SFA back to the Southland Conference,” said McNeese Athletic Director Heath Schroyer. “It’s an established DI institution, a rival and is in our footprint. I think this addition truly solidifies our brand as a league.”

SFA will become the best-financed team in the Southland. SFA has a reported athletic budget of $23.2 million. Lamar is the current top spender in the league with an $18.3M. By comparison, McNeese’s athletic budget last year was $13.6M but is expected to go up after this season’s successes.

The league is expected to stay at 20 conference basketball games on both the men’s and women’s sides. The number of teams making the postseason tournaments will remain at eight, meaning two [four] instead of one [two] will stay home. [I'm not sure what is up with Gazzolo's math here. Last year, in a ten-team league, two men's teams and two women's teams did not qualify for the SLC postseason tournament. That should double to four teams being ineligible, right?]

SFA rejoins the league just three seasons after it helped lead three other Texas schools to jump from the SLC to the WAC. They were joined by Sam Houston State, Lamar and ACU. Central Arkansas also left at that time, heading for the Atlantic Sun Conference. The moves left the Southland looking like its time was done, as the WAC tried to poach McNeese State and Incarnate Word the following year. Both came close to leaving before ultimately staying in the SLC and keeping the league alive. Lamar came back after just one season in the WAC. UTRGV spent just two seasons out West before moving to the SLC. Sam Houston left the WAC this season to join Conference USA.

“I love what Commissioner Grant has done since taking over,” Schroyer said. “We are a completely different conference than we were three years ago.” Nothing states that fact more than the return of SFA.

Southland Conference Members July 1, 2021: Southeastern Nicholls New Orleans Incarnate Word TAM-Corpus Christi McNeese State Houston Baptist Nicholls

July 1, 2024: Southeastern Nicholls New Orleans Incarnate Word TAM-Corpus Christi McNeese State Houston Baptist Lamar TAM-Commerce UT-Rio Grande Valley Stephen F. Austin Nicholls

[Outsider1]

Still waiting to see what happens to our Oct. 5th home game that was supposed to be with SFA. Are Southland officials redoing UAC schedules as well?

[katss07]

Good for the SLC. Looking forward to hitting some games this fall.

See quite a few gripes from SFA fans on Twitter. I’ll say this. If you’re too good for the Southland, if these aren’t our peers, prove it. The Southland has been a springboard for schools to bigger things for decades. You can win D1-AA titles, earn at large bids and make MBB tournament runs playing in the SLC. Yet, I can’t seem to find any footage of SFA’s last playoff win. Southland results are respected and earn you opportunities. So earn them.

[McCowboys]

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-hI5Sld7huNJIDRep6q-EdLwTu1ju2xZ0c9UvixDyxRgO7CIR-NXs3BQnFOKjDwoxz_MiNRY2kOvDs7gGlJob9F_x8glBgmz855T Ru8QlD8WuXBN1gtDxrNHn0dznoAioYHhnZlzbRntc0_0N-uXfzd4dPFBA-y7VtLRv29ludxVOm_vI-jOtyQlBngf/w547-h282/2024%20SLC%20football%20schedule.jpg

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm_bb7BrF21iqYRQ__ZhE1Y2MBRq_MmCIvstaYrbyXZ 8zfVtu3ChhelNNrkffI9t-g1NeSdsDALH_adQ_2wXctyJJqcdSJwwkzso6p5G9CcNbhUf4CR nme7HRtw6bxsfetX83oZ3eZGXxpOBnvhafoRVid1r_8M-DouJX8SwOKCt6p-jU2lYAQw0XX0xY/w365-h444/2024%20McNeese%20Football%20Schedule.jpg

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-hI5Sld7huNJIDRep6q-EdLwTu1ju2xZ0c9UvixDyxRgO7CIR-NXs3BQnFOKjDwoxz_MiNRY2kOvDs7gGlJob9F_x8glBgmz855T Ru8QlD8WuXBN1gtDxrNHn0dznoAioYHhnZlzbRntc0_0N-uXfzd4dPFBA-y7VtLRv29ludxVOm_vI-jOtyQlBngf/w547-h282/2024%20SLC%20football%20schedule.jpg

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm_bb7BrF21iqYRQ__ZhE1Y2MBRq_MmCIvstaYrbyXZ 8zfVtu3ChhelNNrkffI9t-g1NeSdsDALH_adQ_2wXctyJJqcdSJwwkzso6p5G9CcNbhUf4CR nme7HRtw6bxsfetX83oZ3eZGXxpOBnvhafoRVid1r_8M-DouJX8SwOKCt6p-jU2lYAQw0XX0xY/w365-h444/2024%20McNeese%20Football%20Schedule.jpg

Four straight road games and no home contests in October.

Talk about a lengthy cattle drive.

[McCowboys]

Four straight road games and no home contests in October.

Talk about a lengthy cattle drive.

True! At least there is an open week for McNeese in October and then another in November. It's still crazy, and we will not play one of our biggest rivals Southeastern Louisiana. I think that's what most Cowboy fans will be most miffed about.

[SFA 93]

McNeese State senior grad. transfers to SFA.

Punter Callum Eddings will play his final year in the Nac.

[McNeese75]

McNeese State senior grad. transfers to SFA.

Punter Callum Eddings will play his final year in the Nac.

Good punter!

[SFA 93]

Good, we need one, our all conference one graduated.

[bonarae]

WAC vs. SLC is happening off the field for a while now... Might be paywalled but worth checking out.

From the FCS Fans Nation post referencing this article:
"The WAC clearly prioritized basketball, and objectively has been a better basketball conference than the Southland in recent years. Meanwhile, the Southland has attempted to be a well-rounded league with football at the forefront.

But what happens when even the basketball schools start ditching the WAC? It's already happening.

Grand Canyon, the defending WAC champion and the biggest hardwood brand in the league, left for the West Coast Conference. Seattle University is gone too, creating a big void for the WAC to fill. "







https://trib.al/jWGJmLx

[McCowboys]

WAC vs. SLC is happening off the field for a while now... Might be paywalled but worth checking out.

From the FCS Fans Nation post referencing this article:
"The WAC clearly prioritized basketball, and objectively has been a better basketball conference than the Southland in recent years. Meanwhile, the Southland has attempted to be a well-rounded league with football at the forefront.

But what happens when even the basketball schools start ditching the WAC? It's already happening.

Grand Canyon, the defending WAC champion and the biggest hardwood brand in the league, left for the West Coast Conference. Seattle University is gone too, creating a big void for the WAC to fill. "

https://trib.al/jWGJmLx



This is a good article which I had shared on some McNeese fan groups and blogs previously. The one correction is that for this upcoming season, only SFA and UTRGV have left the WAC. Grand Canyon and Seattle will leave after the 2024-25 season. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong.

For all its warts, the SLC at this time is a stable conference with a fairly tight geographic footprint.
Reports say that other current WAC members have made overtures to the SLC, but the SLC AD's are not looking to expand at this time. We will see what happens after this coming athletic season.

[McCowboys]

Jim Gazzolo takes a swipe at new (and returning) SLC member SFA (SFA will find a new Southland):
https://www.americanpress.com/2024/06/06/jim-gazzolo-column-sfa-will-find-new-southland/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2GoBr6wJrM8NCv9jk7CDr2 YqD1gAxR4G9ZrAbA9Evz2X5QgzC2ZI0dpNM_aem_AbIvA3oaOQ iqfHBTkEOTY8RTxW6FNXXq50mJQO_4FqbQZ7SuDoenTzp4B4Dz OEHvkJYFe1eDq8hf4946iBJPZAOl

This article is about various sports, but as far as FCS football, SFA hasn't been setting the world on fire recently or very often historically. Yeah, I know, McNeese has nothing to write home about in the last few years either, but the Cowboys do have an all-time winning record over the Lumberjacks 20-13-1 and the Cowboys have won the last three games, two of those away games in Nacogdoches. See you in the Hole soon, Jacks!

[SDFS]

Jim Gazzolo takes a swipe at new (and returning) SLC member SFA (SFA will find a new Southland):
https://www.americanpress.com/2024/06/06/jim-gazzolo-column-sfa-will-find-new-southland/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2GoBr6wJrM8NCv9jk7CDr2 YqD1gAxR4G9ZrAbA9Evz2X5QgzC2ZI0dpNM_aem_AbIvA3oaOQ iqfHBTkEOTY8RTxW6FNXXq50mJQO_4FqbQZ7SuDoenTzp4B4Dz OEHvkJYFe1eDq8hf4946iBJPZAOl

This article is about various sports, but as far as FCS football, SFA hasn't been setting the world on fire recently or very often historically. Yeah, I know, McNeese has nothing to write home about in the last few years either, but the Cowboys do have an all-time winning record over the Lumberjacks 20-13-1 and the Cowboys have won the last three games, two of those away games in Nacogdoches. See you in the Hole soon, Jacks!

Woah, I was thinking it was single comment. Taking a swipe was the entire article.

[McCowboys]

Woah, I was thinking it was single comment. Taking a swipe was the entire article.

In all fairness, he took swipes at SFA and McNeese and gave praise to UIW, Nicholls, and Lamar. But I found it funny as hell and still laugh out loud every time I read it.

[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xw6ek9rHgI

#PokeNation (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/pokenation)
Our sports duo took a field trip for the latest episode of #PokeNation (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/pokenation)! Dr. Wade Rousse, the next president of McNeese State University, joined the team for a chat at Nogal Mexican Cuisine Bar.Poke Nation is a CBS Lake Charles Original presented by The McNeese Athletic Foundation + brought to you by Veron Bice Law Firm.

[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xw6ek9rHgI

Jun 6, 2024

#PokeNation (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/pokenation)
Hang out with our sports duo as they relive the past year in McNeese sports and look forward to next year! #PokeNation (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/pokenation) is a CBS Lake Charles Original presented by The McNeese Athletic Foundation + brought to you by Veron Bice Law Firm.

[SFA 93]

Lumberjacks add another home game (ACU) to 2024 schedule.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GP5DkiPWIAEtpWR?format=jpg&name=large

[Outsider1]

Lumberjacks add another home game (ACU) to 2024 schedule.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GP5DkiPWIAEtpWR?format=jpg&name=large

The Lumberjacks didn't add it. ACU had to scramble to rearrange everything and then get SFA to still end up playing them in the end after throwing them, and every other UAC school, under the bus... You guys still cost us an entire home game...

[SFA 93]

Looking forward to some of these games and now my family can actually go to some...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GP-kxZcWEAAy4c9?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GQC4R-IXQAANXsu?format=jpg&name=large

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GO10DKOWgAA9sgI?format=jpg&name=large

[McCowboys]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GO10DKOWgAA9sgI?format=jpg&name=large

This doesn't show SFA's final game with ACU.

[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLwX0_D7lys

Why Kylon Harris is looking forward to SFA's return to the Southland Conference


While a good many SFA fans are probably still in mourning at the thought of a return to the SLC, at least one Lumberjack football player is quite thrilled about the return to the SLC and his home state.

[Puddin Tane]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLwX0_D7lys

Why Kylon Harris is looking forward to SFA's return to the Southland Conference


While a good many SFA fans are probably still in mourning at the thought of a return to the SLC, at least one Lumberjack football player is quite thrilled about the return to the SLC and his home state.

man, Im so sick of hearing “the mourning” sfa fan. I didnt want em back. It only took our new AD 30 seconds to figure out the Wack was an idiotic move…and a near fan revolt. Jacks are up in Nac whining about that lost utah st rivalry game.

sfa finished 2nd to last in the Wack commissioners cup. The other crapola school the slc is all excited about, utrgv, finished last.

[SFA 93]

That schedule was released before SFA added ACU.

[Outsider1]

That schedule was released before SFA added ACU.

SFA and ACU are continuing a home and home for both football & basketball for two years.

https://acusports.com/news/2024/6/14/football-acu-and-sfa-commit-to-in-state-rivalry-after-lumberjacks-southland-transition.aspx

[McCowboys]

That schedule was released before SFA added ACU.

I figured that out, so I'm not sure why you posted that schedule now, knowing it was not correct. You couldn't find a more recent one or use Photoshop to fix it?

[McCowboys]

man, Im so sick of hearing “the mourning” sfa fan. I didnt want em back. It only took our new AD 30 seconds to figure out the Wack was an idiotic move…and a near fan revolt. Jacks are up in Nac whining about that lost utah st rivalry game.

sfa finished 2nd to last in the Wack commissioners cup. The other crapola school the slc is all excited about, utrgv, finished last.

Well, well! Look who woke up from hibernation (do Cardinals hibernate?) LOL
Don't go bragging on LU too much. It took you a year to figure out what McNeese and even UIW realized was not for them much sooner.

[McCowboys]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GO10DKOWgAA9sgI?format=jpg&name=large

Here's a happy return to the SLC gift for you, SFA 93!

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWNCiwJQol21J2yqTVgt_QnW9vPp0a80yhM3ce8fDNf sqOaKH4E36Z2hTKBDhdOzGtSbgnhWj3pwsHBM-loBN_J4PiMa-JLCGp4o1tvdSd00_joQUH14sw3dDjtGPjH82RobQpn36wRY4eo zp3b44deEUfowP_m5guuCgBlkmChN2WH15Di7LruMJNaMQ/w595-h313/2024%20SLC%20football%20schedule%20c.jpg

[McCowboys]

https://www.si.com/college/fcs/top-10-returning-fcs-football-linebackers-in-2024

[SFA 93]

I think SFA's LB group will be it's strength on defense.

SFA returns starters Jermaine Brown, Luke Watson, and Aaron Austin with additions of senior grad. former Samford starter Josiah Cotton, Lane Lewis from Grambling State, and Tony Anywanu from Baylor.

[McCowboys]

I think SFA's LB group will be it's strength on defense.

SFA returns starters Jermaine Brown, Luke Watson, and Aaron Austin with additions of senior grad. and Samford starter Josiah Cotton, Lane Lewis from Grambling State, and Tony Anywanu from Baylor.




I imagine SFA will be in the top 3 when the SLC preseason poll is released, top 4 for sure: UIW, Nicholls, SFA, Lamar.
If McNeese's defense (Micha Davey, new co-defensive coordinator, and experience via the transfer portal) can stop the run, we might win a game or two.

[SFA 93]

Yes, someone on the Sawmill said that Dave Campbell picked SFA to finish #3 in the SLC for 2024.

[McCowboys]

Yes, someone on the Sawmill said that Dave Campbell picked SFA to finish #3 in the SLC for 2024.

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/2024/06/28/thursday-146/

From Zem's Gems: "I still do not have enough information to start forming my opinion of the Southland Conference. I do know it will be more balanced this year because of the improvement of Lamar, HCU, Commerce, Northwestern State, SLU and McNeese. SFA will have one of the four best rosters in the conference if not the top three if you can believe recruiting. So, it is good for the league having them back. I will probably wait until Media Days so that I can get a read on the new portal additions and losses at each school. The SLC will have new coaches at NSU and Commerce which are always interesting."

The new coaches will be at NSU and HCU, not commerce.
This was also posted today (Friday) not Thursday. Us retired people have trouble keeping up with the days sometimes. ;-)

[McCowboys]

https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2024/6/28/24180640/fcs-2024-preview-southland-incarnate-word-cardinals-mcneese-cowboys-stephen-f-austin-lumberjacks
Southland 2024 Preview: UIW Seeks Bonce Back, SFA Comes Home
Last fall didn’t go as expected for some teams in Louisiana and Texas but for others it was all-too familiar. What will 2024 look like?


[Man! They had to dig a long ways back to find this picture!]

https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mf4uGhm9F02BKpTN2_flEH9aZ2w=/0x0:3536x2526/1200x800/filters:focal(1460x340:2024x904)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73433298/1178479075.0.jpg

[SFA 93]

9 more Saturdays!

[McCowboys]

Today is July 1, 2024, and so let's send an official welcome to newest members SFA and UTRGV
to the Southland Conference!

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexrIFs0o7M21C8D1QznnOouxuImEnB46yhvrV_aIL8i P_zwY7q0p6Tj3VDCdbycyUdgKsK6Mca2c-q7TCZCUkHau1sSTmSVBWs6emWtXCE4zzEUlKgiwj86Jn0It3QP 9pvE1yayDahI5bdusa0suzaSdw4kXpKuvzZgkijcQ3v6OjZ2YM DTcgJXvm30lQ/w429-h259/slcmap2024new.jpg

[McCowboys]

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1807761755516350475

- - - Updated - - -

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1807761779918848255

[FUBeAR]

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1807761755516350475

- - - Updated - - -

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1807761779918848255
https://twitter.com/southlandsports/status/1807761779918848255

[SFA 93]

We're Back! Deal with it!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GOwjB8bXkAAEugi?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

We're Back! Deal with it!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GOwjB8bXkAAEugi?format=jpg&name=medium

In The HOLE, September 14, a welcome back to SLC football. Deal with it!

[bonarae]

TAMUC may have its name changed again to the dismay of the community. xsmhx

Paywalled but worth checking out:

https://www.texasfootball.com/article/2024/07/05/the-blitz

[SFA 93]

And the community is fighting that name change Texas A&M University-Dallas at Commerce.

https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-renaming-of-texas-a-m-university-commerce

[McCowboys]

And the community is fighting that name change Texas A&M University-Dallas at Commerce.

https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-renaming-of-texas-a-m-university-commerce

It really makes one wonder if this is the most important matter the Texas A&M system has to concern itself with. How stupid! I doubt the people will be listened to, though.

[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gci59WGFT8g

Bill Carroll's 2024 25 CFB Preview LB Micah “Tank” Davey, McNeese State & WR Dymere Miller, Rutgers

[Puddin Tane]

Powers that be have preseason 1-2-3
Nicholls
uiw
and YOUR LAMAR CARDINALS

peck em

[McCowboys]

Powers that be have preseason 1-2-3
Nicholls
uiw
and YOUR LAMAR CARDINALS

peck em

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GR5-IXqakAAMLmQ?format=jpg&name=small


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GR51pT4WcAAZubw?format=png&name=small

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GR5-OKpaUAA5PZN?format=jpg&name=small

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GR5-fs-bYAA9Vgq?format=jpg&name=small

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GR5-hz3bQAAJSl_?format=png&name=small

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSD8GujXYAAYgEj?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

McNeese Sports (https://www.facebook.com/McNeeseSports?__cft__[0]=AZX8MFWlehK-Ck6vgucBecYJUrho6-1xdNTArrkPD38CPvWJg83L1UbJpekcloLcm9e0voyV2CI1P2mN rFaozT2uRYDe00iXEHAYfym0dgoe6psbJ8d_T4SJadPlNJDDPK 89829Pgb8CjTWMx0TlhCxzIG4e1MGLrCRMYbpvoAsRR_PkdtzF R9Qy_yf_HFT2Mme_0DSKKaGJes9e5DLXKl7J&__tn__=-UC%2CP-R) BREAKING... McNeese's Week Zero season opener at Tarleton State on Aug. 24 will now broadcast live on ESPN2. The game was originally scheduled for ESPNU.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSIol9eXoAE6nHj?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSIol9eXoAE6nHj?format=jpg&name=medium

Geaux Pokes! xpopcornx (I couldn't find a prayer emoji.) :D

[Keeper]

xprayx

hope it's not too hot that day.

[McCowboys]

xprayx

hope it's not too hot that day.

Middle of the day in the South in August. Nah, piece of cake! xeyebrowx

[McCowboys]

https://goutrgv.com/news/2024/7/10/getting-to-know-the-southland-football.aspx (https://goutrgv.com/news/2024/7/10/getting-to-know-the-southland-football.aspx)

Getting to Know the Southland: Football



Story LinksRIO GRANDE VALLEY – The Southland Conference has established itself as a strong football league in recent years, with two teams either ranked or receiving votes at the end of 2023 and a national champion as recently as 2020-21.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSNix-gW4AANLCM?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSNixQVWQAArtXE?format=jpg&name=small

[SFA 93]

If McNeese State wins this game, they are back, because Tarleton State is loaded and I expect them to be a pre-season Top 25 team.

Starting QB Victor Gabalis CMP:164;YDS:2,492;TD:18;INT:13 returns, who had his best game of the season (I was there for this one) against SFA throwing for 389 yards and 4 TD's completing 79% of his passes.

All-American RB Kayvon Britten ATT:183;YDS:1,150;AVG:6.3;TD:16;REC:11;YDS:106;TD: 1 (187 yards @EKU and 4 TD @ACU) returns as well as all their receivers and OL with the addition of Houston transfer Cody Jackson who was a big time recruit in the class of 2021 (#6 WR) in the nation, but has yet to live up to that ranking.

They do lose a few starters from last season on defense including DL Josh Griffis who transferred to Oregon State, but they are a hungry 8-3 team, (close to a 10-1 team) with their only loses being @Texas Tech, 1 point loss to Southern Utah, and 6 point 2OT loss @EKU.

13-4 at home since 2021, expect over 20K at Memorial Stadium for this one against McNeese State.

[McCowboys]

If McNeese State wins this game, they are back, because Tarleton State is loaded and I expect them to be a pre-season Top 25 team.

Starting QB Victor Gabalis CMP:164;YDS:2,492;TD:18;INT:13 returns, who had his best game of the season (I was there for this one) against SFA throwing for 389 yards and 4 TD's completing 79% of his passes.

All-American RB Kayvon Britten ATT:183;YDS:1,150;AVG:6.3;TD:16;REC:11;YDS:106;TD: 1 (187 yards @EKU and 4 TD @ACU) returns as well as all their receivers and OL with the addition of Houston transfer Cody Jackson who was a big time recruit in the class of 2021 (#6 WR) in the nation, but has yet to live up to that ranking.

They do lose a few starters from last season on defense including DL Josh Griffis who transferred to Oregon State, but they are a hungry 8-3 team, (close to a 10-1 team) with their only loses being @Texas Tech, 1 point loss to Southern Utah, and 6 point 2OT loss @EKU.

13-4 at home since 2021, expect over 20K at Memorial Stadium for this one against McNeese State.


Yeah, we expect a tough battle, and McNeese has played there before in the "Ice Bowl." The Arctic Blast came through and this was one COLD game! TEMPERATURE:
28 deg
WIND:
12 mph - Wind Chill was in the low teens, as I recall.



2/13/2021
2020
AwayStephenville, TX

(2 OT)W 40 - 37





As bad as McNeese was last year, the Cowboys kept it close going into the 4th quarter at Cowboy Stadium and then we fell apart in the 4th quarter. Is this Tarleton's first year being eligible for the FCS playoffs?



Team
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total


Winner Tarleton St.
14
3
14
21
52


McNeese
7
10
7
10
34



McNeese will have to play well, but we added 20 or21 FBS transfers with experience (on both sides of the ball) and QB Clifton McDowell from runner-up Montana. Our offensive line is big and experienced. We also have a new co-defensive coordinator who spent several successful years at Cal Poly and was most recently at UTEP. He and our new recruiting director worked hard to bring in depth and experience on the defense.

This game at TSU could be a very hot game with it being in the afternoon in August. Our games at Tarleton could be among McNeese's coldest and hottest games ever.

[MR. CHICKEN]

Yeah, we expect a tough battle, and McNeese has played there before in the "Ice Bowl." The Arctic Blast came through and this was one COLD game! TEMPERATURE:28 degWIND:12 mph - Wind Chill was in the low teens, as I recall.



2/13/2021
2020
AwayStephenville, TX
(2 OT)W 40 - 37




As bad as McNeese was last year, the Cowboys kept it close going into the 4th quarter at Cowboy Stadium and then we fell apart in the 4th quarter. Is this Tarleton's first year being eligible for the FCS playoffs?



Team
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Total


Winner Tarleton St.
14
3
14
21
52


McNeese
7
10
7
10
34



McNeese will have to play well, but we added 20 or21 FBS transfers with experience (on both sides of the ball) and QB Clifton McDowell from runner-up Montana. Our offensive line is big and experienced. We also have a new co-defensive coordinator who spent several successful years at Cal Poly and was most recently at UTEP. He and our new recruiting director worked hard to bring in depth and experience on the defense.

This game at TSU could be a very hot game with it being in the afternoon in August. Our games at Tarleton could be among McNeese's coldest and hottest games ever.


YES!

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2024/07/11/jim-gazzolo-column-slc-needs-mcneese-to-rise/

SLC needs McNeese to rise
Thursday, July 11, 2024 By Jim Gazzolo

In just a few days, McNeese State will open one of its most important football camps in program history. On paper, the Cowboys have the look of a much-improved team, picking up 20 transfers from the Football Bowl Subdivision level and several others as they look to bounce back from their toughest season, a 1-10 record with the lone win coming via forfeit. It is important to McNeese that its football program regain some of its luster for both the athletic department and the university.

A winning football team has been the norm at McNeese, so the past few years have been tough on the fan base. However, the school is not the only institution in need of a Cowboy comeback. The Southland Conference could use it as well. The fall of the league has gone hand-in-hand with the Cowboys’ slide, and that is no coincidence. Every strong conference needs a true flag barrier. The Southland is no different.

Since McNeese’s troubles, and the exit of the five teams in 2021, the SLC has been struggling to regain the attention it once received in the Football Championship Subdivision world. Last year the Southland received one bid to the FCS playoffs. That went to co-champ Nicholls State, which did not win a game outside the conference. Left at home was Incarnate Word, which was ranked in the top 10 most of the season, won a share of the league title and scored a win outside the SLC.

However, UIW lost to Nicholls, which cost the Cardinals the automatic bid a year after they reached the national semifinals. That’s a tough pill for the league to swallow and shows just how far it has fallen.

It wasn’t long ago that the Southland Conference had three teams make the playoffs and almost always received at least two bids. Now there are no guarantees. That’s why the league needs a strong McNeese, to top the ticket if you like. Incarnate Word would benefit from that as well as the rest of the conference. This can also be said for Stephen F. Austin, which returns to the SLC after a three-year sabbatical in the Western Athletic Conference.

SFA has a pretty solid football history and recently has fallen on tough times. A strong SFA to rival a once-again strong McNeese would be a huge deal for the Southland Conference, which in recent years seems to be gaining momentum as a basketball league.

The conference could also benefit from others to bounce back, like Southeastern Louisiana which is coming off a subpar year. It would also really be good for the SLC if Lamar, which seems to be on the rise, could take that next step on the national level. Lamar has strong national name recognition from past basketball successes and like McNeese seems to be a school that could bust out and become a larger force.

SLC Commissioner Chris Grant has said as much in the past, saying it was time for his league to “win” some of their marquee games on the national FCS level instead of just being happy to compete in those games. An improved McNeese State is needed to help make that happen.

[McCowboys]

https://mcneesesports.com/news/2024/7/15/micah-davey-named-1st-team-preseason-all-american-by-fcs-football-central.aspx

MICAH DAVEY NAMED 1ST TEAM PRESEASON ALL-AMERICAN BY FCS FOOTBALL CENTRAL
2024 FCS Football Central Preseason All-American Team
First-Team Offense:
QB: Mark Gronowski (South Dakota State)
RB: Lan Larison (UC Davis)
RB: Jamar Curtis (Lafayette)
RB: ShunDerrick Powell (Central Arkansas)
WR: Efton Chism III (Eastern Washington)
WR: Javin Whatley (Chattanooga)
WR: Darius Cooper (Tarleton State)
WR: Nick DeGennaro (Richmond)
TE: JJ Galbreath (South Dakota)
OL: Marcus Wehr (Montana State)
OL: Charles Grant (William & Mary)
OL: Gus Miller (South Dakota State)
OL: Jackson Slater (Sacramento State)
OL: Grey Zabel (North Dakota State)
OL: Nick Taiste (South Carolina State)
AP: Marcus Yarns (Delaware)

First-Team Defense:
DL: David Walker (Central Arkansas)
DL: Elijah Williams (Morgan State)
DL: Marlon Taylor (Chattanooga)
DL: Dylan Hendricks (North Dakota State)
DL: Brody Grebe (Montana State)
LB: Adam Bock (South Dakota State)
LB: Micah Davey (https://mcneesesports.com/sports/football/roster/micah-davey/10125) (McNeese)
LB: Noah Martin (Samford)
LB: Erick Hunter (Morgan State)
LB: Amir Abdullah (Illinois State)
DB: Tucker Large (South Dakota State)
DB: Cole Wisniewski (North Dakota State)
DB: Isas Waxter (Villanova)
DB: Dalys Beanum (South Dakota State)
DB: Kenny Gallop Jr. (Howard)

First-Team Special Teams:
K: Will Leyland (South Dakota)
P: Trey Wilhoit (Florida A&M)
KR: Abraham Williams (Idaho)
PR: Tucker Large (South Dakota State)
AP: Junior Bergen (Montana)

Second-Team Offense:
QB: Cole Gonzales (Western Carolina)
QB: Cam Miller (North Dakota State)
RB: Bronson Yoder (William & Mary)
RB: Kayvon Britten (Tarleton State)
RB: Amar Johnson (South Dakota State)
WR: Bo Belquist (North Dakota)
WR: Jared Richardson (Penn)
WR: Carter Bell (South Dakota)
WR: Daniel Sobkowicz (Illinois State)
TE: Carter Runyon (Towson)
TE: Cole Grossman (Montana)
OL: Justus Perkins (Montana State)
OL: Ryder Langsdale (Lafayette)
OL: Payton Collins (Eastern Kentucky)
OL: Evan Beernsten (South Dakota State)
OL: Jaison Williams (Youngstown State)
OL: Reid Williams (Chattanooga)
AP: Tommy Mellott (Montana State)
AP: Griffin Woodell (UAlbany)

Second-Team Defense:
DL: Elijah Ponder (Cal Poly)
DL: Dallas Afalava (Idaho)
DL: Eli Mostaert (North Dakota State)
DL: Ckelby Givens (Southern)
DL: Finn Claypool (Drake)
DL: Malachi Bailey (Alcorn State)
LB: Riley Wilson (Montana)
LB: Logan Kopp (North Dakota State)
LB: Shane Hartzell (Villanova)
LB: Ken Standley (Mercer)
LB: William McRainey (ETSU)
LB: A.J. Pena (Rhode Island)
DB: Saiku White (Lafayette)
DB: Trevin Gradney (Montana)
DB: Caleb Curtain (Elon)
DB: Isaiah Reed (Brown)
DB: Oshae Baker (UT Martin)
DB: TaMuarion Wilson (Central Arkansas)

Second-Team Special Teams:
K: Griffin Crosa (North Dakota State)
P: Matt Noll (Jackson State)
KR: Donovan Wadley (Merrimack)
PR: Darius Lewis (Southeastern Louisiana)
AP: Jaylon Spears (Nicholls)

[McCowboys]

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1813227209231880481

Three from the Southland Conference were named Preseason All-American by FCS Football Central.

First Team LB Micah Davey, McNeese

Second Team AP Jaylon Spears, Nicholls

PR Darius Lewis, Southeastern

#EarnedEveryDay (https://x.com/hashtag/EarnedEveryDay?src=hashtag_click)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GSngbNNWcAEQS9j?format=jpg&name=large

[McCowboys]

2024 Southland Football Opening Drive!

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[McCowboys]

https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/7897c56d-821b-4b0c-bdcf-ebc1a028915d

JULY 22 10 AM

Southland Football Opening Drive

[McCowboys]

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9oY3cuxq1yl9Wv4nwHaDGePlt5wkUdhnHMX3zLqnXj9 1GbHKG2SzNF4sEynPSUILzvd3RVmoM-B1h5ymdVepvyPKG7lHTxD6M8iYwSNikVHODlhHDcXl-mWbnhYKJ7UvYdxI9N3gSTL1O_7dN7XvAoQoKq_4VIzI2X1H4K2 bvQxkzSvkF1-gnVFyOeZQ7/w403-h580/msudefense.jpg

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[McCowboys]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TwCvT_NvCE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TwCvT_NvCE)

Gary Goff Pre-Camp Press Conference | July 17, 2024

[McCowboys]

https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1814401725836734593 (https://x.com/SouthlandSports/status/1814401725836734593)

Southland Conference (https://twitter.com/SouthlandSports)@SouthlandSports (https://twitter.com/SouthlandSports)

We know you needed some Southland Football in College Football 25... so we created all 10 teams.For PS5 users, look at the user name hillgators32 and download your favorite team! #GasTankLeague (https://twitter.com/hashtag/GasTankLeague?src=hashtag_click)

IN THE GAME https://abs-0.twimg.com/emoji/v2/svg/1f3ae.svg

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[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2024/07/19/long-road-to-mcneese/ (https://www.americanpress.com/2024/07/19/long-road-to-mcneese/)

When prompted, just click "continue reading without signing in."

McDowell's Search Brings Him to McNeese

Don’t call Clifton McDowell a savior or survivor, he wants to be known as a football player. He also hopes to be the final and perhaps biggest piece to a puzzle that turns around the Cowboys.

[McCowboys]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

Keith Zembower (Zem) predicts the preseason SLC poll which should be released tomorrow in his Sunday blog. No real surprises. I believe most of us would agree somewhat. For some reason he thinks Commerce had a coaching change instead of HCU, and I am not sure why he doesn't rank LU higher.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTBCrfwWsAA4GHe?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

He said the coaching change from a year ago. TAMUC did have a coaching change a year ago.

[McCowboys]

He said the coaching change from a year ago. TAMUC did have a coaching change a year ago.

And he thinks that is still affecting them? I guess so. It's hard to tell with the portal and roster changes these days. Still, he doesn't seem to note that HCU has a new coach.

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTGJg-LXsAAUz49?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

2024 @SouthlandSports (https://x.com/SouthlandSports)

Preseason Poll

1. Nicholls, 119 points (9 first-place votes)

2. UIW, 113 (8 first-place votes)

3. Southeastern Louisiana, 94

4. Lamar, 88 (1)

5. Stephen F. Austin, 72

6. McNeese, 64

7. HCU, 41

8. Texas A&M-Commerce, 37

9. Northwestern State, 25

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[SFA 93]

Nicholls, Lamar, and UIW dominate the pre-season all conference selections.

NICHOLLS 14
LAMAR 12
UIW 11
SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA 7
MCNEESE 3
HCU 3
TEXAS A&M - COMMERCE 3
SFA 2
NORTHWESTERN STATE 0

[McCowboys]

Zem is a really smart man in many different areas, but my thoughts on the SLC were better than his (at least according to the SLC release). I had a higher opinion of Lamar. I'm not surprised about SFA. I am a bit surprised at SLU's placement though. As for the SLC Drive show, I learned a good bit about Northwestern State and SFA. I may have posted this before, but McNeese was interested in Carthel before SFA hired him. What could have been! He talked a lot about the changes in offensive scheme and the defense, and he is glad to be back in the SLC with no airplane flights. Whoever asked the questions of McNeese Coach Goff was pathetic. I learned NOTHING! They talked a lot about all the new players (transfers), but didn't ask about the experienced offensive line (one of McNeese's two 1st team picks is an offensive linemen) or what he thought the strongest parts of the team might be. For McDowell, they didn't ask about the major differences in schemes or expectations. Gazzolo has had newspaper articles and I posted Goff's press conference here a few days ago, and learned lots of things. Today nothing. It was a waste of my time watching.

Anyway, it looks like an exciting season with Nicholls and UIW with a target on their backs! McNeese is down to 33 days until they face Tarleton.

[SFA 93]

Yes, former SFA OC Matt Storm got the boot after last season's disappointing season.

Storm had been with Carthel for several years going back to Texas A&M Commerce and their 2017 National Championship, but a change needed to be made as the offense was getting so vanilla and predictable, so they went with Chris Ross (Texas Tech 1994), a high school head coach at Lovejoy High in Lucas, Texas (Dallas Metroplex) with 30 years experience, known for his fast pace offensive schemes.

Coach Ross led Lovejoy (7-5A) to a 45-9-0 record his 4 seasons there (2020-2023) 14 playoff appearances total in his career and an overall record of 190-82-0 at 5 different Texas high schools. His only college experience was 3 seasons at Boise State (2016-2018) in recruiting and player development.

Sorry to hear the starting QB Brian Maurer is still feeling his season ending injury (elbow) from 2023, that hurts. I guess that's why they brought in QB Sam Vidlak from Montana. He has 11 games under his belt and will be the most experienced QB on the roster if Maurer can't go.

And yes more than ever Coach Carthel did indeed embrace the portal this season bringing in 22 players (10 of which had started at some point at their previous school)

Last season was incredibly frustrating starting out 2-1 after a good showing at SBC Champion Troy State (30-48) to open the season, 2 blow out wins to follow that, leading UAC Champion Austin Peay in the next game through the whole game until 9 minutes to play to turn the ball over and lose by 2 (20-22) on a safety. Lost to Utah Tech by 6, lost 21-24 at UCA, 27-34 to ACU, and then the wheels came completely off getting pretty much blown out the last 3 games of the season to not win one conference game. The defense couldn't make a stop when they needed to and the offense couldn't score on critical drives when they needed to, like coach said.

It will be interesting to see how this season pans out as you have to think after last seasons performance, Carthel has to be feeling the heat.

[Panther88]

Yes, former SFA OC Matt Storm got the boot after last season's disappointing season.

Storm had been with Carthel for several years going back to Texas A&M Commerce and their 2017 National Championship, but a change needed to be made as the offense was getting so vanilla and predictable, so they went with Chris Ross (Texas Tech 1994), a high school head coach at Lovejoy High in Lucas, Texas (Dallas Metroplex) with 30 years experience, known for his fast pace offensive schemes.

Coach Ross led Lovejoy (7-5A) to a 45-9-0 record his 4 seasons there (2020-2023) 14 playoff appearances total in his career and an overall record of 190-82-0 at 5 different Texas high schools. His only college experience was 3 seasons at Boise State (2016-2018) in recruiting and player development.

Sorry to hear the starting QB Brian Maurer is still feeling his season ending injury (elbow) from 2023, that hurts. I guess that's why they brought in QB Sam Vidlak from Montana. He has 11 games under his belt and will be the most experienced QB on the roster if Maurer can't go.

And yes more than ever Coach Carthel did indeed embrace the portal this season bringing in 22 players (10 of which had started at some point at their previous school)

Last season was incredibly frustrating starting out 2-1 after a good showing at SBC Champion Troy State (30-48) to open the season, 2 blow out wins to follow that, leading UAC Champion Austin Peay in the next game through the whole game until 9 minutes to play to turn the ball over and lose by 2 (20-22) on a safety. Lost to Utah Tech by 6, lost 21-24 at UCA, 27-34 to ACU, and then the wheels came completely off getting pretty much blown out the last 3 games of the season to not win one conference game. The defense couldn't make a stop when they needed to and the offense couldn't score on critical drives when they needed to, like coach said.

It will be interesting to see how this season pans out as you have to think after last seasons performance, Carthel has to be feeling the heat.

SFA, what happened to the portal txfer Jaden Stewart (Pearland Dawson state championship team)? He was a very talented young man.

[SFA 93]

Not sure, I did notice he was no longer on the roster.

He didn't see much action in 2023 only played in 2 games, 3 carries for 8 yards on the season.

[McCowboys]

https://zemsgems.wordpress.com/

Zem's Tuesday Blog: "The Southland Conference released their 2024 Preseason Poll on Monday as expected. I got the top two correct and the bottom three correct, but Lamar being picked fourth was a surprise and McNeese being picked sixth was a slot or two below my prediction. I have no problem with Nicholls and UIW at the top of the ticket because they have the most returning players. It should be an interesting season due to the transfer portal and the addition of SFA.....The Cowboys success or failure this fall will be judged by the more than 50 newcomers that were added to the roster. Meetings and conditioning are happening today (Tuesday) and all 110 members will hit the field at 8AM tomorrow to start training camp. The first couple of days will be helmets only."

My Note: This will be the first season where the Cowboys open with a full roster -- 110 members -- which is very exciting. In the last couple of years with numerous coaching changes, transfers exiting the program, recruiting mistakes, hurricanes, probation, and injuries, McNeese's roster was often like that of a JUCO. Also encouraging is that a talented group of redshirts have had a season and offseason in the program to learn the system and get stronger.

Transfer Clifton McDowell appears to have been coronated the starter. He does not lack for confidence and skill and has won the respect of the team, and after leaving Montana, he did have several opportunities to play elsewhere. This could be huge as during the two years under Goff the quarterback play (or lack thereof) has been as damning as the defense.

Goff may be on the hotseat. AD Schroyer has not said Goff must win a certain number of games, but a .500 record with this schedule may be enough to give him another year.

[McCowboys]

Yes, former SFA OC Matt Storm got the boot after last season's disappointing season.

Storm had been with Carthel for several years going back to Texas A&M Commerce and their 2017 National Championship, but a change needed to be made as the offense was getting so vanilla and predictable, so they went with Chris Ross (Texas Tech 1994), a high school head coach at Lovejoy High in Lucas, Texas (Dallas Metroplex) with 30 years experience, known for his fast pace offensive schemes.

Coach Ross led Lovejoy (7-5A) to a 45-9-0 record his 4 seasons there (2020-2023) 14 playoff appearances total in his career and an overall record of 190-82-0 at 5 different Texas high schools. His only college experience was 3 seasons at Boise State (2016-2018) in recruiting and player development.

Sorry to hear the starting QB Brian Maurer is still feeling his season ending injury (elbow) from 2023, that hurts. I guess that's why they brought in QB Sam Vidlak from Montana. He has 11 games under his belt and will be the most experienced QB on the roster if Maurer can't go.

And yes more than ever Coach Carthel did indeed embrace the portal this season bringing in 22 players (10 of which had started at some point at their previous school)

Last season was incredibly frustrating starting out 2-1 after a good showing at SBC Champion Troy State (30-48) to open the season, 2 blow out wins to follow that, leading UAC Champion Austin Peay in the next game through the whole game until 9 minutes to play to turn the ball over and lose by 2 (20-22) on a safety. Lost to Utah Tech by 6, lost 21-24 at UCA, 27-34 to ACU, and then the wheels came completely off getting pretty much blown out the last 3 games of the season to not win one conference game. The defense couldn't make a stop when they needed to and the offense couldn't score on critical drives when they needed to, like coach said.

It will be interesting to see how this season pans out as you have to think after last seasons performance, Carthel has to be feeling the heat.

Many of the SLC teams will employ wide open attacks this season. Maybe we should rename the conference the Big Sky Southland. ;-)

Are there any Tarleton fans here on AGS?

[Panther88]

Not sure, I did notice he was no longer on the roster.

He didn't see much action in 2023 only played in 2 games, 3 carries for 8 yards on the season.

Senseless. xsmhx All of that physical talent, wasted. xsmhx

His problem was obviously very mental, imho.

[McCowboys]

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKPZjzRhL5R6yHcCn3k6mmdCfkpZJnWxRnnzpTs1Kw2u cI7wu7shoce6T5FTQNCgqm-V1tRsuLXultviTTs2YTJE1Fq6r2db_OvGAgjGXyvGJz2ZJ7Kac lYpOzuOL5qUrzYnsFdD-6DMC9c547Htq6SIF5l6b3x5KW-D-fCOs7Mw4oP_ZycPaf2wh3_i9P/w491-h605/fall%20camp%20outlook.jpg

[McCowboys]

McNeese players at SLC Media Day

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[McCowboys]

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[McCowboys]

TARLETON STATE ANNOUNCES PROMOTION
Tarleton State Football Defensive Coordinator Tyrone Nix (https://tarletonsports.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/tyrone-nix/636) has been promoted to Assistant Head Coach, Texans head coach Todd Whitten (https://tarletonsports.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/todd-whitten/634) announced Friday.
In addition to helping the Texans to their best record as an NCAA Division I institution in 2023 at 8-3, Nix’s defense led the United Athletic Conference in yards per play allowed (4.76), defensive touchdowns (four, tied-fourth in FCS) and fumbles recovered (11, tied-ninth in FCS). The Texans held four opponents to 17 points or fewer and had three defensive players named to All-UAC honors under Nix last season.
Nix has been a DC for 19 years including stints at Southern Miss, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Middle Tennessee, and UTSA. McNeese will be taking the field against the Nix defense in exactly 28 days from today.

[McCowboys]

https://www.kplctv.com/2024/07/26/mcneese-football-holds-day-three-camp-with-local-talent-expected-shine-this-season/

Video: LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - Day three of training camp is in the books, it was a practice filled with explosive plays on offense and defense, and two players that possess that breakout ability are Jamaal Levi and TreVonte’ Citizen, local talent from Lake Charles who coach Gary Goff said bring a lot to this team....

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTqkeoOXwAAPB-Z?format=jpg&name=medium
The Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-America First Team https://abs-0.twimg.com/emoji/v2/svg/1f624.svgLB Micah Davey, McNeeseS Tyler Morton, NichollsK Chris Campos, SFA

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTqjlreXMAA62oc?format=jpg&name=medium

[SFA 93]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTqkXVxWcAAnELZ?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

https://www.americanpress.com/2024/07/29/heat-greets-full-padded-cowboys/ (https://www.americanpress.com/2024/07/29/heat-greets-full-padded-cowboys/)

After days and days of rain, the skies cleared up and the heat returned as the McNeese Cowboys donned pads for the first time.

Goff is concerned about alignments and assignments but is impressed with TE transfer Logan Mauldin from Coastal Carolina:

“Going into Week 2 we cannot make the same mistakes as far as alignment and assignments,” Goff said. “If we do, someone else has to get a chance.”
One player making the most of his chances is tight end Logan Mauldin. The junior transfer from Coastal Carolina, had a pair of touchdown grabs Monday." His best catch came on a scoring pass from Kamden Sixkiller late in practice inside the red zone.

[SFA 93]

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https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTwMOuJWkAADoV9?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTwL1NAWoAA3RcO?format=jpg&name=medium
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GTwMOuJWkAADoV9?format=jpg&name=medium

Nicholls probably has the best two running backs in the SLC. Guggenheim kills McNeese every time we play.
Calzada must have been injured when they played McNeese last season because he did not play. He may have some competition from other SLC schools this season, but it's good for the conference to get recognition.

[McCowboys]

https://unoprivateers.com/news/2024/7/30/general-letter-to-privateer-nation.aspx

This is not football related, but it's probably an issue for many smaller FCS schools as well.
HCU sued the NCAA and no one joined in to support them, and the NCAA swatted them down like they were an annoying fly.
I hear now that attorney generals for Montana and South Dakota are contemplating taking legal action. It's a shame they didn't join in with HCU.

[SFA 93]

SFA kicking off the 2024 season.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GT0YeFbXkAAr1JW?format=jpg&name=medium

[McCowboys]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GT0u37fWkAAuupd?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GT0u_6jXwAAcfi_?format=jpg&name=large

[McCowboys]

https://lionathletics.com/news/2024/7/31/general-lion-athletics-successfully-advances-to-year-three-in-ncaa-division-i-transition.aspx (https://lionathletics.com/news/2024/7/31/general-lion-athletics-successfully-advances-to-year-three-in-ncaa-division-i-transition.aspx)

COMMERCE – Texas A&M University-Commerce has progressed one step closer to achieving full NCAA Division I status after being advanced to the third year of provisional membership by the NCAA earlier this month.

The Lion Athletics department is at the mid-point of its four-year transition into Division I. A&M-Commerce will achieve full membership in Summer 2026, thus being eligible for NCAA-sponsored postseason competition during the 2026-27 academic year....

[McCowboys]

https://x.com/McNeeseFB/status/1818754624855420948 (https://x.com/McNeeseFB/status/1818754624855420948)

Mic'd up! New McNeese WR coach Michael Smith.

Geaux Pokes!