Thu Sep 12 19:16:00 UTC 2024: ## SFA Lumberjacks Head to Lake Charles for Southland Conference Opener Against McNeese State
**Nacogdoches, TX** – The Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks (1-1) are set to open their Southland Conference schedule on the road this Saturday against the McNeese State Cowboys (1-2). The game is slated for a 7 p.m. kickoff at Cowboy Stadium in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
The matchup comes after both teams suffered losses to FBS opponents last week. SFA fell to North Texas 35-20, while McNeese lost a close contest to Texas A&M 52-10.
SFA head coach Colby Carthel expressed respect for the Cowboys, noting their significant roster additions through transfers. “They really loaded up on some transfers…I think they’ve really redone their roster and gotten some really, really good players,” he stated.
Carthel also highlighted the strength of McNeese’s quarterback, Clifton McDowell, who led Montana to a national championship last year. “He’s a big, strong runner and a good thrower,” Carthel said.
The Lumberjacks will be looking to build on their offensive production from the season opener. Sam Vidlak leads the offense, completing 28 of 47 passes for 469 yards and six touchdowns. Kylon Harris is the team’s leading receiver with 13 catches for 189 yards and a touchdown.
Meanwhile, McNeese will be relying on a strong rushing attack and a defense led by linebacker Micah Davey, who has recorded 39 tackles, two sacks and two pass breakups.
With the game being the only Southland Conference matchup this week, both teams will be looking to make a statement in their conference opener. “It’s the only conference game this week in the Southland,” Carthel said. “There will be a lot of eyes on what happens in Lake Charles Saturday night.”
First Piper 