Robert Salinas
Writer
Rob is quite the nomad - born in Corpus Christi, raised in San Antonio, and has lived in Orlando, New Orleans, and Cleveland. While his personal favorite teams reside in his home state, he has a passion for cities that rally behind their teams, and found a home-away-from-home in New Orleans (he’ll be back, no doubt). He is motivated by season openers, game 7s, and most of all: food - there’s not a spicy chicken sandwich or cold brew that he’s not indulging in.
Growing up, my family had cookouts any time the sun was out and there was a reason to celebrate, which ranged from birthdays to holidays to just any weekend day where we were all awake and willing to congregate. These frequent get-togethers were a test of Darwin’s theory in the aspect of hunger. As soon as the fajitas were cooked, it was first-come first-served. Rice and beans are done – better get a plate and load up. Brisket done – you better believe some of the uncles and brothers were grabbing it hot from the grill, so even when it makes it inside it’s not untouched. Sometimes, when the timing was perfect, you could create a plated meal with an entrée, side, appetizer, all at the same time with a satisfying leaning-because-it’s-heavy paper plate. Timing is rarely perfect, so most times it was eat-when-done, or don’t eat at all. The outsiders- friends/spouses/neighbors - who were used to traditional, sit-down meals would learn very quickly that if you wait too long, you’re left with some bread, a tortilla, and maybe one flat cup of iced soda. I’ve seen more traction lately on the “Zero-RB” fantasy strategy as we get closer to the peak of fantasy draft season. From a non-expert who maybe plays 3-4 leagues a year at most, I was intrigued to research some of the success and community feedback around this strategy. Zero-RB does not mean you literally draft zero running backs to your team (please don’t), yet it assumes the theory that you can attain better value in your top picks by focusing on the standout players in other positions, needing to statistically find those boom-RBs in middle-to-late round picks. Let’s consider this year’s ADP, where most lists are roughly identical, which I’d bet that less than half of the top-20 players are running backs. Looking at last year, 3 of the top-5 projected backs actually matched that potential (CMC, Henry, Ekeler) with a few busts to consider like Jonathan Taylor and Najee Harris (both still inside the Top-20, but initially ranked within the Top-10). Looking at the lists of ADP vs output has some standout differences that do prove you can potentially find some great value in picks outside the traditional top-20 backs, however consistency is key in fantasy. FantasyPros accumulated the Boom-Bust Percentage in 2022 by player, where within the best five backs at the end of the season, the highest bust percentage was 7% (the top two backs saw ZERO busts). Your five best receivers in 2022 saw ranges of almost 20% bust ratios, with Justin Jefferson (the top receiver) having that exact ratio. Jefferson is sitting as the number one or two right now in most rankings, as he should, but if you asked me to plainly pick a player who might see 20% of their games underperforming or 0%, I choose the latter. Yet, I can’t deny that I wouldn’t leap at Jefferson as my top pick because, well, it’s Justin freakin’ Jefferson, and I in terms of WRs he’s the best bet. That’s why sometimes statistics and over-strategizing can get in the way of what you need to do as a fantasy manager, especially in your initial first picks that will yield you some of the best pieces of your team (hopefully). Does that mean you draft to fill positions first, then? Some players will tactfully fill their starters first before leaning on bench spots (i.e. getting their two RBs, their two WRs, their TE, etc. before drafting more backup spots). That strategy is almost less valuable, wasting precious roster space for best-available to fill unimportant voids that can probably be flexed or streamed if needed. Would you rather want a full plate of the hottest, most-tender brisket slices and have to decide if you want less of potato salad or beans later – or settle for a decent brisket slice now to portion out the sides and potentially go back for a colder, harder piece of meat? There’s stats and websites and rankings and everything in between to support one strategy or the other, but truly there’s no formula that can predict the outcome of the best strategy. That’s why Zero-RB shouldn’t be an option for you unless you want to mess around in your mock drafts (and what’s that saying currently trending right now - the more you [mess] around, the more you find out?). The most difficult piece for Zero-RB is that you need to NAIL those mid-round boom running backs, where in most cases even full-time analysts consistently miss the mark with projections year after year. Some individuals play in many different leagues (my close friend in particular plays at least 10 leagues every year), so in that case where maybe you have some leverage, get risky and have some fun if you want (in other words, go ahead and eff around to find out). When it comes to drafting though, I’d like to think you’re at the Salinas family cookout. You have to take the best dish available as soon as it hits the table. That fresh plate of Nick Chubb is going to go to Joe Schmoe if you decide to get cute, and you might miss out on an amazing anchor for your team. First-come, first-served. Make sure to follow Rob on Twitter.
We are hours away from the 2023 NBA Draft and bombs have already started dropping for this offseason. All eyes are on this stellar draft class and what teams are willing to move (or not) to acquire some of the better prospects we’ve seen in one classroom since 2003, at least based on hype alone. The only surefire turnout we know is the #1 spot. While one of the biggest names was taken off the board when Bradley Beal was shipped off to Hooters with Booker & Co., Zion Williamson once again has built traction to be a factor for a potential major offseason move. He has faced this unlikely rumor in years past with little belief that New Orleans would be silly enough to drop this franchise player, yet this year’s waiter has now brought out some dishes that were sizzling from the kitchen, and many heads are turning in curiosity to maybe, just maybe, change their usual order and try a taste. Did that make sense? I’m always hungry, but here are the 6 burning, immediate, critical questions that come to mind when considering what happens with Zion: 1. Should New Orleans even consider trading Zion? There’s always a price, so taking out the outrageous offers and considering viable, more- likely possibilities, is giving Zion away even a considerable position to think about? He was one of the most hyped #1 prospects since Lebron and promised to be a franchise-defining player. Health aside, it’s hard to ignore the efficiency and talent that Williamson has brought to the Pels (notably, when he was healthy this last season they were the top team in the West). The problem is, of course, that we can’t put health aside. In fact, that is the reason to juggle the thought of banking on another potential franchise-defining player. Zion sits with an attractive contract at a young age, so it might be too early to risk letting him go when he’s still an undeniable force on the court. If I had the chance to snag the #2 or #3 pick this year however, the price might be just right… 2. What happens to the banner? Look, I am from a town that relied on South Side murals to represent our team loyalty, spray painted on the sides of taquerias with chrome-like details that would translate wonderfully into airbrush tees sold at corner-street tents. Being in a city with a nationally top-prospect, immediately signed to a major brand somehow translates to a secret city club of skyscraper banners, shortly worded and larger than life. I never had that before, and it’s just cool as hell. When I moved to New Orleans, the Zion banner was a feat in and of itself for an outsider. Does it stay? Is another player the replacement (in which I say no, you just can’t have any player on a banner…right)? I like the idea of OG Pierre and King Cake Baby standing back-to-back on a mural that size just to incite terror. Don’t let me plan the banner. 3. What city will Zion Jr. be raised in? There’s something to growing up in a town with history, culture, the biggest and best celebration of the year, and some of the worst streets to drive on. Most families don’t flock to New Orleans as an ideal place to raise little ones, but when you have money I’m positive that you can eliminate some of the struggles others might face (school systems, childcare, etc.). I am in no place to assume, so from a point of ignorance, is it better to bring this new child into the world of New York, Portland, Charlotte? Maybe, but c’mon, it’s New Orleans. 4. Who else goes down with the ship? That might be dramatic phrasing, but there’s a chance that Zion alone might not be enticing enough to make a final deal. At that point, who else becomes available? Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones have proven to be amazing steals and viable assets, but is that price too high? Depending on the payoff, I am curious on who else might be on the table. The only players I feel confident about are Ingram, CJ, and Jose. That’s it. But even my confidence doesn’t guarantee the outlandish possibility that New Orleans can’t shake things up. 5. Is the Jordan Zion 3 still coming? I’m one to not care for non-Michael, Jordan-endorsed player shoe releases (i.e. any Jordans other than 1-14 including combos of any in that list: Spizikes, 6-Rings, etc.). But the Zion 2s released anime colorways. That’s cool. AND, they’re on sale right now. If Zion propels into a bigger market, is the Zion 3 inevitable? Do the Zion 2s go more on-sale? Will I buy them – no – but shoes maketh the man. 6. If it comes down to it – Scoot or Zion? The real reason why Zion is trending is the possibility of Portland or Charlotte opting to trade their top pick, which will very-well be Scoot Henderson. It’s a strong consensus that in pretty much any other non-Wemby year, Scoot is an undeniable #1. Brandon Miller also proves to be a potential franchise-player, and New Orleans could find itself with an offer for either one if they look to give up the injury-prone star power of Williamson. If I had to pick right now, and if it was down to one-for-one, Scoot somehow is too good to pass up. Seeing him develop next to BI and the growing core that the Pelicans have, along with some solid future draft capital, could prove to be beneficial in the long term. It’s rare you get to snag another number-one guy, and if the risks aligned with Zion could be swapped for that, I think I would bite…this year especially. That’s Scoot though, since there’s no real Miller-or- Zion conversion. Once Follow @RobSalin on Twitter
The best damn breakfast tacos in the world can be found in San Antonio, TX (this is a scientifically proven fact). I spent 23 years of my life in that beautiful city, and since moving away I have never been able to find anything in the spectrum of equivalent to those bean and cheese, chorizo and egg, greasy soaked-bag morning treats. I tried every “breakfast taco” and “breakfast burrito” joint in every city with every pocket of Mexican and tex-mex staples. I even tried making them at home to see if my culture would just miraculously flow through my veins instinctively with the ingredients, finding an unlocked talent from deep within my heritage and seeing the secret recipes in my head - just like the moment Alan realized he could count cards at the blackjack table in The Hangover . Through all these trials it took decades to eventually unlock this crucial life lesson: you can’t bring home with you. Don’t go looking for quality jambalaya in Cleveland, or fresh gulf-shrimp in D.C. Take the best of where you are. This unnecessary lengthy bridge into how this applies to the early-but-not-too-early world of fantasy football might simply be because I’m starving right now, or it just might be too much of a silly metaphor to stomach – regardless, here’s the Saints “homers” you need to think about when planning the New Orleans loyalty into your fantasy draft strategies: DEREK CARR – QB It might be tempting to buy in to arguably the biggest off-season signing for New Orleans. Carr is entering the dome with the catching 1-2-punch of the anticipated return of Michael Thomas and 2022 standout receiver Chris Olave (more to come on these guys), along with joining a coach he has a seemingly positive and trusting relationship with. With that, ESPN predicts the Saints also hold the 2nd-easiest schedule, proving to give Carr some groundwork as he eases into his new situation. It’s a juicy pick with a potential high ceiling, and most managers probably won’t consider him as a top piece to follow as their QB1 based on the output he’s delivered in his career. Last year, Carr yielded his 2nd-lowest QB rating since 2014 with a 60.8% completion rating even while partnered with all-star Devonte Adams. He has been sub-par fantasy-wise through most of his career, and definitely fell out of the top 20 rankings last year, making Carr solidified as a strong streamer or backup QB in most leagues. He is surrounded by an objectively better situation this year, yet I wouldn’t jump to trust a much higher ranking entering 2023 just yet. Personal QB PPR Rank: 20 ALVIN KAMARA – RB Off-season troubles have unfortunately shadowed the outlook of this once-perennial star back. With a not-so-great 2022 year within a position that typically trends down at his age, you combine a looming suspension that really creates some doubt in what we should expect from Kamara. As a player, Kamara can, and probably will, still deliver if he gets the chance to do so. Even though his tag of one the most reliable and best RB fantasy assets has dwindled, let’s not forget his 14-pt average he banked last year given probably one of the less-talented offensive groups the Saints have had with him at the helm. He did show more struggles with his solely-running capabilities given that much help did not come from the OL, and also with time this is expected. As a reliable pass-catching back, Kamara can easily thrive as a solid RB2 option. Williams in the mix makes for an intriguing combo for the backfield, but it’s hard to ignore the possibility of a major suspension impacting Kamara’s worth. I still would slightly rank him above his newfound partner only based on sheer talent and tenure, but stay close to this one as I wouldn’t be surprised if legal troubles push schedule (or even team) changes. Personal RB PPR Rank: 28 CHRIS OLAVE - WR The WR25 had a sensational rookie year being thrust into the No. 1 role for the Saints. EPSN Analytics ranked him 7th in open rate behind Stefon Diggs, 15th in target share and 10th in target per route run rate in the NFL. He is now at the mercy of a stronger QB presence and will hopefully be able to lean on veteran Thomas for a longer period of time (which I think will only help the young WR if it happens). There might be doubts in Carr’s effectiveness as a consistent passer, or even that MT is on the horizon and might compromise the target rate for Olave, or even more-so that he will be left pretty-much alone again as the No.1 option (more likely), yet I see all of these situations as major positives for Olave’s value. He has the juice to shine in big moments and will seemingly have a few upgrades in the arsenal around him, especially outside his receiving buddies. There’s really little doubt to have with this 2nd year stud. If there are any homers to bank on, this is easily the guy. Personal WR PPR Rank: 11 Michael Thomas – WR The once-warrior Achilles of New Orleans, 2019 was a long time ago, yet it still lingers as a sliver of hope for maybe what we can still get a taste of. Thomas has played eight games since that historic season (yes, in total). The trust is gone, and even with a 1-year, $10 million contract and a new (better?) QB at the helm, I simply can’t place this beloved receiver inside the top 50. Now…imagine a world where all the stars align, all bones are healed and MT is able to keep a stash of “Michael’s Secret Stuff” in the locker room for before each game. There is a sleeper here – everyone has the same doubt I do, so everyone will pass on Thomas. Given Olave’s attention and a stronger offensive front, those stars aligning could provide a fruitful reward. The question is – is the risk worth it? Person WR PPR Rank: 57 JAMAAL WILLIAMS – RB Williams remains my favorite New Orleans fantasy prospect to ponder. He boomed in his 6th year as a back, capitalizing as a bruiser for Detroit at goal-line opportunities that allowed him to excel as the RB2 behind D’Andre Swift. He also has showcased some strong pass-catching capabilities in Green Bay, those of which Derek Carr has seemingly been able to capitalize on throughout his career (ESPN stats show that Carr’s RB’s in the past nine seasons have finished within the Top-10 of target share). That combination can be a tasteful one, especially if we see Kamara miss any time at all. The ceiling is pretty high with Williams, but there is much unknown until we get closer to the season’s start which also makes his floor a little lower than I’d like. I do have confidence in his usage and impact being immediate. I also expect the impact to be less than what he was able to deliver last year, yet there is still room to know that we have a more positive-than-negative mindset in the reality of he can deliver. Talent alone drops my confidence in Williams being a powerhouse more than a low RB2/strong RB3 at the end of the day. I do hope for more than my expectations, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Williams finds himself inside the Top 20 depending on several of those unknown factors. Fingers crossed. Personal RB PPR Rank: 30 NEW ORLEANS DST – DEF I feel like I need to say something here, however there is not much to add. The defense will not be the worst of the pack, boasting an easier-than-last year schedule and a solid core that has the potential to boom depending on the opponent (think major defensive pieces like Jordan, Granderson, and the hopeful potential of Payton Turner). They also are unfortunately not a 49ers or Bills squad that you pretty much will play weekly, regardless of who it is against. I wouldn’t re-tool your strategy to ensure you solidify the Saints Defense in your roster, yet they will probably be a reliable play in more weeks than most. I like to think that if you are not lucky enough to get the top 2-3 DEF squads during your draft, lean on streaming where you can, and plot and plan a few weeks ahead to have some high-reward opportunities. New Orleans will presumably be a solid option in many weeks, so pay attention to schedule here, but also assume that many players might hold on to this squad once drafted for consistency’s sake. If you do land them, let’s see if the season plays well and don’t immediately jump to drop/stream given the upside here. Personal DEF PPR Rank: 12 There are some honorable mentions I didn’t get to: Juwan Johnson or Taysom Hill at the TE spot? Speaking of Hill, will we see the swiss-army usage we got to experience last year? I wanted to start with the obvious and I am sure we will have some 2022 Hill-like outcomes that make me throw these initial rankings in the garbage. Even so, there’s some important building and re-building that is happening with this squad that will make for a fun year. Follow your pride and love your team, but be smart with your fantasy assets when you look to draft. A common mistake is being the “homer” who loves their team too much and relies on the undeniable over-confidence we like to place on our beloved team’s players and potentials. That considered, the Saints do have some great and intriguing fantasy options that have the potential to shine if all goes well. It might be a little early to create fantasy draft strategies (except for Dynasty Leagues), but it’s never too early to start prepping. Just remember to be flexible. Now get some tacos. Follow me on Twitter @RobSalin
How X Games Found Its Perfect Match in New Orleans
HOUSTON, Texas - If there was one message SLU wanted to send at the 2026 Southland Conference Opening Drive, it was simple: the Lions aren't rebuilding. They're reloading. Representing SLU at media day were head coach Frank Scelfo, starting quarterback Kyle Lowe, and senior defensive lineman Peyton Anderson. Across multiple interviews and media sessions, one theme consistently emerged above all else: culture. Whether discussing leadership, recruiting, player development, or expectations for the upcoming season, the trio repeatedly returned to the same idea. At SLU, everyone is expected to protect the team, push one another, and focus on the little details that ultimately separate good teams from championship teams. A New-Look Team With Familiar Expectations SLU enters the 2026 season looking much different than last year's squad after replacing a senior class of 26 players. Despite the younger roster, Scelfo made it clear that the expectations of the program haven't changed. "You can expect to see an explosive, talented team," Scelfo said, adding that fans will see more players rotating into meaningful roles thanks to the depth the coaching staff has built. The Lions have posted the conference's best record over the past two seasons, and Scelfo believes the next wave of talent is ready to continue that success. Building Through Louisiana During the coaches' roundtable, Scelfo doubled down on SLU's recruiting philosophy. While NIL has become a valuable tool to fill immediate needs, he emphasized that high school recruiting remains the heartbeat of the program. SLU signed 28 players in its most recent recruiting class, the largest class in the Southland Conference, knowing today's college football landscape means some players may eventually move on through the transfer portal. "We'll continue recruiting high school players," Scelfo explained. "We might lose them after three or four years, but that's just the nature of the beast." Unlike many conference rivals that recruit heavily in Texas, SLU continues to build primarily from Louisiana, particularly Southeast Louisiana. As the easternmost football member of the Southland Conference, the Lions have found success by keeping local talent close to home. That philosophy became even more relevant during a discussion about recruiting footprints. East Texas A&M head coach Clint Dolezel praised Texas as the premier recruiting state in the country, referring to it as the "king" of high school football recruiting. He also highlighted Florida and California while failing to even acknowledge Louisiana. Dolezel went on to tout the benefits of hosting the Southland Conference Media Day in Houston, all but suggesting Louisiana schools should be thankful for the opportunity to recruit in Texas' backyard. That sentiment didn't sit uncontested. Northwestern State head coach Blaine McCorkle quickly came to Louisiana's defense. "Per capita there is no more passion and talent than the state of Louisiana," McCorkle said, adding that Louisiana has produced more NFL players per capita over the past 40 years than any other state. For a program like SLU that has built its roster around Louisiana talent, the exchange reinforced the recruiting identity Scelfo has embraced. The results only speak for themselves. While ETAMU has managed only 5 wins over the past 2 seasons, SLU has won 13 over that same timespan along with an FCS Playoff berth this past year. Protect the Team No phrase was repeated more throughout the day than "Protect the Team." Lowe and Anderson each described a locker room where accountability isn't optional. Teammates challenge one another daily on the practice field, in the weight room, in the classroom, and away from football. "Hammond fans are extremely passionate and supportive," Lowe said. "The team feels that support, and we want to play for the people who have our backs." Anderson echoed that sentiment from a different perspective. As a St. Amant High School alumnus, growing up just 30 minutes from Hammond, he said SLU has always felt like home. He is thankful that his friends and family have the opportunity to see him play every week he's in Strawberry Stadium. "The culture in our locker room is a team that's bought in," Anderson said. "When you have a team with that passion that's willing to push each other outside their comfort zones, good things are bound to happen." Both players repeatedly emphasized that "Protect the Team" isn't just a slogan. It's something they strive to live every day, whether on the football field, in the classroom, or throughout the community. The Details Matter During a one-on-one interview later in the day, Scelfo expanded on what separates this team. He pointed to players like Lowe, who has already earned his MBA in five years, and Anderson, who will be completing an engineering degree in just four years. "They're detail-oriented people," Scelfo explained, saying that attention to detail translates directly to success on the football field. That same mindset was echoed by Anderson during his own interview. "The little things will be the difference maker," he said. "If you're comfortable, you're not great." For Anderson, success comes from embracing his role, taking pride in the details, and continually improving year after year. Loyalty Still Matters One of the more refreshing storylines surrounding SLU is player loyalty. In an era where the transfer portal has reshaped college football, Anderson is entering his fourth season with the Lions. 4th Round NFL Draft pick Kaleb Proctor of the Arizona Cardinals also spent four years in Hammond. Sources have indicated that Anderson had opportunities to transfer, including reported interest from a touted SEC program, but chose to stay at SLU and finish what he started. That decision speaks volumes about the culture inside the program. For recruits considering where to spend their college careers, SLU is selling more than playing time. The Lions are selling development, stability, and a program that invests in its players both on and off the field. Eyes on the Prize Coming off another successful season, Lowe believes the Lions still have another level to reach. "We want to get over the hump," he said. "Win the conference and make a deep playoff run." Personally, Lowe has focused his offseason on improving his accuracy, becoming a stronger leader, distributing the football more effectively, and continuing to develop both his strength and mobility. Those goals mirror the team's mentality as a whole. Every interview throughout the day circled back to improving the small things, trusting one another, and continuing to build the culture that has made SLU one of the Southland Conference's most consistent programs. A Program Built to Compete Scelfo also took time to highlight what makes Saturdays in Hammond, America so special. From the atmosphere surrounding Strawberry Stadium to one of the conference's premier tailgating scenes, he described game day at SLU as one of the most unique experiences in the Southland. He also praised the league itself. "Southland football is exciting," Scelfo said, pointing to the level of talent throughout the conference and the quality of competition fans can expect every weekend. If Opening Drive served as an early glimpse into the 2026 season, SLU made one thing abundantly clear. The Lions may be younger than they've been in recent years, but inside the program, expectations haven't changed. The culture remains intact, the leadership is in place, and the goal is the same as it's been all along: compete for a Southland Conference championship and make a deep run in the FCS Playoffs. Photo Credit: @LionUpFootball on X
It’s the night before the draft, and you’re scrolling on X to see what all the NFL insiders and draft analysts have to say about your team. Trying to find any clues about who is going where and what the latest rumor is that could be the biggest surprise of Thursday night. The NFL Draft is one of the few times during the year when every fan has some level of hope and optimism in their team. The draft is a three-day event where it can make or break a franchise to where you can be set up for a Super Bowl contention or be stuck in the doldrums. This year, Saints fans get to have some hope and optimism after how well the 2025 NFL Draft went. Kelvin Banks and Tyler Shough headline their draft class, which showed great promise for the Saints moving forward. Now it is on Mickey Loomis, Jeff Ireland, and company to keep the momentum going and have back-to-back successful drafts. Something they haven’t been able to really do in almost ten years now. But pressure isn’t new to Mickey Loomis, the man is not fazed by the likes of you or me posting online how poor of a job he’s done. No, the man simply chews his gum into a microphone defiantly with the confidence knowing that when his back is against the wall, he can capture lightning in a bottle. Mickey did it for the 06’ draft as well as the 17’ draft. The 2025 draft doesn’t appear to be quite like those, however, getting a starting Quarterback in the second round might help make a case, but that’s beside the point. The Saints don’t need to shoot for the moon with the 2026 NFL Draft, they aren’t one player away, which Mickey confirmed today in his annual pre-draft interview. All the Saints have to do is draft good football players and not get cute. Which I know is putting it way too simply, and is easier said than done. But I don’t want the Saints to get trigger-happy and make a costly trade that backfires on them à la Trevor Penning or Marcus Davenport. If a trade opportunity comes along that they deem is reasonable, then by all means, I hope they take advantage, but just make sure you’re not the ones being taken advantage of. The Saints might have already done the hardest part by finding a QB, so now they can do the fun part of the roster building. I’ll admit there is some nervousness as a Saints fan about the draft and rightfully so, but as I type this out, the Saints are in a spot where they can’t really go wrong with their first pick in the draft. All the players being mocked to them can and should help the team in a major way as a rookie. They could go with a dynamic wide receiver like Jordyn Tyson or Carnell Tate, a do-it-all safety like Caleb Downs, a productive edge rusher like Ruben Bain, or maybe even trade up for a cyborg-like linebacker in Arvell Reese. The Saints have plenty of options, and all of them should be quality options. So now the question is, who is going to be the Saints fans’ present Thursday evening? We don’t have to wait much longer to find out. Merry Draftmas, everyone.
The Sun Belt Conference announced its "set" 2026 football schedule today, which includes the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. Normally, it does not take this long for the Sun Belt to release their annual football schedule. But ongoing issues between Louisiana Tech and Conference USA has complicated the process and delayed the schedule releases for both conferences. That said, I would take this "set" schedule release with a grain of salt (with heavy emphasis on the quotation marks). A few days ago, reports surfaced that the Sun Belt would indeed release its football schedule today and that it would include Louisiana Tech. The Bulldogs have already accepted an invite to join the Sun Belt last July, and is pushing to make the move this summer, pending a court ruling next week. Late Thursday night, however, Conference USA unexpectedly released its own "set" 2026 football schedule out of nowhere, which also includes Louisiana Tech as one of its member schools. The timing itself raised eyebrows, making it seem like the conference did it out of pettiness to release their version of the schedule with the Bulldogs included prior to the Sun Belt's scheduled Friday release, which was also set to include the Bulldogs. As a result, Louisiana Tech is technically listed as a member of both conferences according to the newly released schedules. Of course, the Bulldogs cannot play in two conferences at once, which is why both schedule releases should be viewed as tentative for now. A court ruling between the UL System (which oversees Louisiana Tech) and Conference USA is currently rumored to take place on Thursday next week (March 19th). The decision at this rumored hearing is expected to have a solution on whether Louisiana Tech can move to the Sun Belt in the summer or remain in the Conference USA for one more year before making the move in the summer of 2027. Until then, it is a wait-and-see game for members of both the Sun Belt and Conference USA. Ultimately, one of these newly released schedules will be right, while the other will be forced to change. But it is in the best interest that both sides have their backup non-Louisiana Tech schedules ready to go in case the ruling swings one way over the other. Here is the 2026 Sun Belt Football Schedule, per the Sun Belt Conference: TEAM-BY-TEAM SCHEDULES SUN BELT EAST DIVISION APP STATE 9/5 Maine 9/12 at East Carolina 9/19 Charlotte 9/26 at North Carolina State 10/10 Old Dominion* 10/16 at Coastal Carolina* 10/22 James Madison* 10/31 at Georgia Southern* 11/7 Georgia State* 11/14 at Marshall* 11/21 ULM* 11/28 at South Alabama* COASTAL CAROLINA 9/5 at West Virginia 9/12 Fordham 9/19 at Delaware 9/24 Liberty 10/3 Georgia Southern* 10/10 at Marshall* 10/16 App State* 10/31 at Georgia State* 11/7 Old Dominion* 11/14 Arkansas State* 11/21 at Louisiana* 11/28 at James Madison* GEORGIA SOUTHERN 9/5 Charleston Southern 9/12 at Clemson 9/19 at Jacksonville State 9/26 Houston 10/3 at Coastal Carolina* 10/10 James Madison* 10/15 at Old Dominion* 10/31 App State* 11/7 Marshall* 11/14 at Georgia State* 11/21 at Troy* 11/28 Louisiana Tech* GEORGIA STATE 9/5 North Carolina A&T 9/12 at Kennesaw State 9/19 at UCF 9/26 Northern Illinois 10/3 Old Dominion* 10/17 at James Madison* 10/24 at Arkansas State* 10/31 Coastal Carolina* 11/7 at App State* 11/14 Georgia Southern* 11/21 at Marshall* 11/28 Louisiana* JAMES MADISON 9/5 Liberty 9/12 Wagner 9/19 at San Diego State 9/26 at Old Dominion* 10/3 Marshall* 10/10 at Georgia Southern* 10/17 Georgia State* 10/22 at App State* 10/29 Troy* 11/5 at Southern Miss* 11/14 at UConn 11/28 Coastal Carolina* MARSHALL 9/5 at Penn State 9/12 Middle Tennessee 9/19 at Missouri State 9/26 Gardner-Webb 10/3 at James Madison* 10/10 Coastal Carolina* 10/20 South Alabama* 10/31 at Old Dominion* 11/7 at Georgia Southern* 11/14 App State* 11/21 Georgia State* 11/28 at ULM* OLD DOMINION 9/5 Norfolk State 9/12 at Virginia Tech 9/19 East Carolina 9/26 James Madison* 10/3 at Georgia State* 10/10 at App State* 10/15 Georgia Southern* 10/24 at Louisiana Tech* 10/31 Marshall* 11/7 at Coastal Carolina* 11/21 at UConn 11/28 Southern Miss* SUN BELT WEST DIVISION ARKANSAS STATE 9/5 at Memphis 9/12 West Georgia 9/19 at TCU 9/26 Kennesaw State 10/3 at Louisiana* 10/8 South Alabama* 10/17 at Southern Miss* 10/24 Georgia State* 11/7 ULM* 11/14 at Coastal Carolina* TBA^ at Louisiana Tech* 11/28 Troy* LOUISIANA 9/5 Lamar 9/12 at USC 9/19 UAB 9/26 at Charlotte 10/3 Arkansas State* 10/10 at Louisiana Tech* 10/17 Troy* 10/24 at Southern Miss* 11/7 South Alabama* 11/12 at ULM* 11/21 Coastal Carolina* 11/28 at Georgia State* ULM 9/5 at Mississippi State 9/12 at UAB 9/19 Southeastern Louisiana 9/26 Florida Atlantic 10/3 at South Alabama* 10/17 Louisiana Tech* 10/24 at Troy* 10/31 Southern Miss* 11/7 at Arkansas State* 11/12 Louisiana* 11/21 at App State* 11/28 Marshall* LOUISIANA TECH 9/5 Northwestern State 9/12 at LSU 9/19 at Baylor 10/3 Army 10/10 Louisiana* 10/17 at ULM* 10/24 Old Dominion* 10/31 at South Alabama* 11/7 at Troy* 11/14 Southern Miss* TBA^ Arkansas State* 11/28 at Georgia Southern* SOUTH ALABAMA 9/5 Southeastern Louisiana 9/12 at Tulane 9/19 Ohio 9/26 at Kentucky 10/3 ULM* 10/8 at Arkansas State* 10/20 at Marshall* 10/31 Louisiana Tech* 11/7 at Louisiana* 11/14 Troy* 11/21 at Southern Miss* 11/28 App State* SOUTHERN MISS 9/5 Alcorn State 9/12 at Auburn 9/19 UConn 9/26 at Tulane 10/6 at Troy* 10/17 Arkansas State* 10/24 Louisiana* 10/31 at ULM* 11/5 James Madison* 11/14 at Louisiana Tech* 11/21 South Alabama* 11/28 at Old Dominion* TROY 9/5 Sam Houston 9/12 Alabama State 9/19 at Missouri 9/26 at Utah State 10/6 Southern Miss* 10/17 at Louisiana* 10/24 ULM* 10/29 at James Madison* 11/7 Louisiana Tech* 11/14 at South Alabama* 11/21 Georgia Southern* 11/28 at Arkansas State* * Sun Belt Conference Game ^ TBA as 11/19, 11/20 or 11/21
When: Saturday, October 18th, 2025, 11:00 AM Where: FirstBank Stadium, Nashville, TN Channel: ABC Spread: Vanderbilt -2.5 O/U: 47.5 The Tigers will be playing Saturday morning in Music City. This matchup will tell us a lot! Vanderbilt, 5-1 (1-1), is entering into this contest coming off of a bye week. Vandy does appear to be a little beat up. Keep an eye out for this. The Commodores have the 4th best rushing offense in the SEC as well as the 5th best total offense in the SEC. Diego Pavia is the leader of this team. Pavia has over 1400 passing yards, over 300 rushing yards, and 16 total TDs. Sedrick Alexander and Makihilyn Young are the leaders in the running back room. The leading pass catchers are Eli Stowers, Junior Sherrill, and Tre Richardson. The defense is led by safety CJ Heard, edge rusher Miles Capers, and Bryan Longwell. This isn't your grandpa's, your dad's, nor your Vanderbilt. This is a high strung team. The Tigers are in for a fight. LSU, 5-1 (2-1), enters the contest coming off of a big win against South Carolina. Garrett Nussmeier appears to be healthy. The ball really jumped off of his hand last week. The Tiger signal caller will look to cut back on the interceptions. Caden Durham and Ju'Juan Johnson will take care of the backfield duties for the Tigers. Both Durham and Johnson had solid games last week. The offensive line will look to build off of the momentum from last week. Trey'Dez Green had a great game last week. It will be interesting to see how the Tigers use Green. Kyle Parker has stepped up big time in recent weeks. I would like to see Parker continue to be involved. Aaron Anderson appears to be good to go for this one. This is huge for the Tigers. The Tiger defense is a solid unit with talent at all 3 levels. Jacobian Guillory is the leader on the line. Whit Weeks, who is a bit dinged up, is the leader in the linebacker room. Tamarcus Cooley and AJ Haulcy are the leaders in the defensive backfield, but this defensive backfield is LOADED with talent! KEYS TO THE GAME - The Tigers shut down Diego Pavia last year. This defense had practice last week facing LaNorris Sellers. Let's see if the Tigers can make Pavia one dimensional. - Can the Tiger defense get off the field on 3rd down? - Can the Tigers keep the running game going? This will be a perfect way to start the day, Tiger fans. This looks to be a great game. Fun Fact: The 1st time these teams met was in 1902. LSU finished the season 6-1 with the only loss being to Vanderbilt. The Tigers went on to capture a co-conference championship. Follow me on X (the artist formerly known as Twitter) @eazytro
The Tigers move to 5-1 on the season, 2-1 in SEC play. LSU goes 3 and out on the opening drive of the game. LaNorris Sellers fumbles on the 1st play of South Carolina's opening drive. Tigers recover the fumble. LSU goes on a 4 play 7 yard drive that is capped off by a Damian Ramos 28 yard field goal. LSU 3-0. South Carolina puts together a 9 play 46 yard drive, but William Joyce misses a 47 yard field goal. LSU puts together a strong 13 play 71 yard drive, but Ju'Juan Johnson fumbles. South Carolina recovers the fumble. South Carolina takes advantage by going on a 3 play 80 yard drive that was capped off by a Matt Fuller 72 yard rushing TD. SC 7-3. LSU punches back with a 6 play 72 yard drive that was capped off by a Trey'Dez Green 6 yard receiving TD. LSU 10-7. The teams trade punts. Then the quarterbacks trade interceptions. The teams trade punts again. South Carolina runs out the 1st half. South Carolina opens the 2nd half with an 11 play 46 yard drive that was capped off by a William Joyce 47 yard field goal. Tied 10-10. LSU responds with a 4 play 75 yard drive that was capped off by a Kyle Parker 43 yard receiving TD. LSU 17-10. South Carolina goes 3 and out. Garrett Nussmeier throws an interception. The teams trade punts. South Carolina turns the ball over on downs. LSU takes advantage by going on a 10 play 64 yard drive that was capped off by a Damian Ramos 22 yard field goal. LSU 20-10. South Carolina turns the ball over on downs. LSU kneels out the clock. Tigers win! LSU 20, South Carolina 10. Takeaways - The turnovers, especially in the end zone, have to be talked about. - This defense will keep LSU in games. This offense has to pull their weight. - TREY'DEZ GREEN!! Awards - Offensive MVP - Trey'Dez Green - This guy stepped up big time tonight. Hopefully this is a preview of things to come! - Defensive MVP - AJ Haulcy - This guy is climbing draft boards every week. Take it in, Tiger fans! The Tigers travel to Music City to take on Vanderbilt Saturday morning. Thank you for checking out my article. Follow me on X (the artist formerly known as Twitter) @eazytro