Five Keys to Beating ULM – From the Bird’s Nest

Ah, if it's Thanksgiving, it must be ULM.

More often than not in recent years, Thanksgiving weekend has been the time for these two teams to play.  The game would be a big one even if nothing was on the line.  But plenty is.  Although a bowl bid is doubtful, the Warhawks become eligible with a win.  The Cajuns are playing for a ring.

If the Cajuns are to wrap up the title on Saturday, here are some things to keep in mind

1.  MATCH THEIR INTENSITY - It's ULM's Super Bowl.  They need this game for bowl eligibility.  They're trying to break a losing streak against the Cajuns.  And, they remember the way the Cajuns won two years ago at Cajun Field, and how the game ended last year.  They'll be plenty motivated.  The Cajuns had better be as well.

2.  REMEMBER YOUR FIRST GOAL - Mark Hudspeth has said since the first day as head coach, the first goal is to win all your games at home.  The Cajuns have done that all but once since his arrival.  While a bowl invite and a conference title are within grasp, first things first.  Get your swag on and protect your house.

3. DON'T HELP 'EM -  It's going to be difficult for ULM to win this game unless the Cajuns give them some help.  ULM will need big plays, takeaways and maybe a crucial penalty late in the game if they're going to leave Cajun Field with a win.  It's up to the Cajuns to stay away from doing things that could get them beat.

4.  CONTROL KOLTON - Anyone who has ever listened to me talk or read my blogs knows the respect I have for the ULM quarterback.  His competitive spirit, toughness and ability to be multi-dimensional makes it easy to do so.  But as good as this kid is, he's never beaten the Cajuns.  Browning is still running, but after his quad injury, hasn't been quite as dangerous.  The defense's goal is to keep him in the pocket so he can't improvise, and make him use his arm exclusively to beat you.

5.  HAVE THE BETTER QUARTERBACK -  Even without that last pass a year ago, Terrance Broadway had nearly 400 yards in total offense and accounted for four touchdowns.  With the Cajuns' success in the running game this year, Broadway hasn't been asked to have one of those special performances.  If he's totally prepared, he could have a big day.