Homecoming in Hammond, America The SLU Lions put on a show for the Homecoming crowd Saturday night at Strawberry Stadium, dominating Northwestern State 49–0 in the 70th meeting between the longtime rivals. The win marked Southeastern’s 15th straight victory in the series, pushing their all-time record against the Demons to 41–29. The Lions were in control from the start, scoring 7 total touchdowns and piling up 402 yards of total offense while holding Northwestern State to just 120 total yards. Quarterbacks Kyle Lowe and Carson Camp combined for 220 passing yards and two touchdowns through the air, while Southeastern’s rushing attack added 182 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. Brandon Hayes got a touchdown for the special teams as well with an 83 yard kickoff return. The win capped off a festive Homecoming weekend in Hammond, America. Friendship Circle was packed for the tailgate, where fans enjoyed live music from The Chee Weez, food vendors, and a great homecoming parade celebrating the Lion Up Community. Many alumni and students made their way from the tailgate into Strawberry Stadium to witness the Lions’ most dominant performance of the season. As an alum myself, I loved seeing the University buy into the Homecoming festivities this year with great entertainment and an electric atomosphere. Head Coach Frank Scelfo emphasized earlier in the week how important homecoming is for the university, noting that for many alumni, this is the only game of the year they get to attend. After the game, he praised his team for delivering for the homecoming crowd and giving our fans something to be proud of. Lion Up LeBlanc’s Players of the Game Offense – Deantre “The Jet” Jackson: Jackson continued to live up to his nickname, finding the end zone three times. Deantre had two touchdowns on the ground and one through the air, totaling 67 yards on just a handful of touches. His early spark set the tone for a long night for the Demon defense. Defense – Jakyri Jones: Jones anchored the Lion defense with seven total tackles (four solo), helping lead a unit that forced five sacks and nine tackles for loss. Southeastern’s defense suffocated the Demons all evening, allowing only 24 rushing yards on 30 attempts. Looking Ahead As impressive as the atmosphere was, I can only hope this energy carries beyond homecoming weekend. The Lions have proven they can contend with anyone in the FCS, and if they continue to play like this, more alumni and students should want to pack Strawberry Stadium every single home game. The Lions are putting an exceptional product on the field, it's our time to do our part as fans to match that energy, fill the stands, and keep the train rolling! Next up, Southeastern (5–2, 3–0 Southland) hits the road for another conference matchup against Houston Christian University. Stay tuned for my pre-game report later this week. Where to find me? X: @LionUpLeBlanc You can also see me on the weekly Louisian Gameday show, previewing all the College Football in Louisiana! LION UP!