As the Warhawks of ULM gear up for their third-ever encounter with the mighty Texas Longhorns, excitement is in the air. The history between these two teams is brief yet charged, with Texas claiming victory in both previous meetings—first in 2009 and most recently in 2022, both battles fought at the iconic DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. But Saturday’s game is more than just a rematch; it’s a statement.
ULM has undergone a transformation since their last showdown with Texas. The 2024 Warhawks are almost unrecognizable, with an astounding 73 new players added to their roster. After the hiring of Bryant Vincent in December, the team went into overdrive during the early signing period, securing 35 new Warhawks in less than two weeks. This includes a robust mix of 17 junior college transfers and 13 four-year transfers, laying a strong foundation for what promises to be a dynamic season. But the recruiting frenzy didn’t stop there—another 11 players joined the squad on National Signing Day in February, followed by 27 fresh faces during the spring signing period. The Warhawks are clearly in a rebuilding phase, but they’re doing so with an impressive level of intensity and purpose.
However, the road ahead is anything but easy. According to Phil Steele, ULM faces the toughest schedule in the Sun Belt and the entire Group of Five, with the 64th most challenging schedule in the nation. Their opponents this season had a combined winning percentage of .565 last year, the highest in the Sun Belt and 34th in the country. With six opponents boasting records of .500 or better, including three teams with double-digit wins—Texas (12-2), Troy (11-3), and James Madison (11-2)—the Warhawks are up against some of the toughest competition in college football. Nine of their foes also made it to bowl games last year, further highlighting the formidable gauntlet ULM must navigate.
But the Warhawks are not backing down. Defensive back Wydett Williams Jr. is a name to watch, having been named the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Week after a stellar performance in ULM’s season opener against Jackson State. Williams, a transfer from Delta State, made an immediate impact with 10 tackles, an interception, and even contributing to the pass rush with 0.5 sacks and 0.5 tackles for loss. His recognition marks the first time a ULM player has earned SBC Player of the Week honors since 2021, setting the tone for a defense that is hungry and ready to compete.
On offense, the Warhawks have shown a strong ground game in their first two matchups, outpacing both Jackson State and UAB in rushing yards. Freshman tailback Ahmad Hardy has been a revelation, averaging 80.5 rushing yards per game and finding the end zone in each of his first two collegiate appearances. James Jones, another key player in the rushing attack, has racked up 110 yards on 20 carries, including a crucial 22-yard touchdown that swung the momentum in ULM’s favor against Jackson State. With Taven Curry also contributing significantly, the Warhawks’ rushing attack is poised to challenge Texas’s defense in a big way.
As the Warhawks prepare to take the field on Saturday, the excitement is palpable. With a new-look roster, a challenging schedule, and a determined spirit, ULM is ready to make their mark. While the odds may be stacked against them, one thing is certain—the Warhawks are here to compete, and they’re bringing everything they’ve got. This Saturday’s clash is not just another game; it’s an opportunity for ULM to prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in college football. Let the battle begin!
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