Saturday, the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns got back in the win column by beating Texas State 49-27.  While it wasn't a huge crowd at Cajun Field, just over 21,300, it was, as always, festive.  Here are some thoughts.

NIXON'S THE ONE - There's no question now who the guy is for the Cajuns.  Some fans have questioned the competition (granted, Texas State's defense is not good) but the Cajuns' junior signal caller ran the team without a turnover, led them to six touchdowns, threw for three, ran for one and played with confidence.  And, it's obvious this team wants to play for him.

STEPPIN UP OUTSIDE -- Jamal Robinson had two touchdowns, one of them of the acrobatic variety.  Al Riles had nearly 100 yards in receptions.  Gabe Fuselier continued his solid play.  It's easier to play quarterback when you get contributions from the guys you're throwing to.  Read the last sentence of the last paragraph.

THE ABILITY TO ADJUST --It was obvious early the Texas State defense was going to take fewer chances and do their best to take away the big play.  And to an extent, they were successful.  But the Cajuns offensive staff said that was fine by them.  They were content to take what they were being given.  The Cajuns had only one play over 22 yards in the game and still rolled up over 500 yards in offense.

THE ABILITY TO ADJUST, PART DEUX -- Texas State came up with some offensive wrinkles during the open date as well.  They hadn't really played a two back offense all year but showed that to the Cajuns and had some success early.  But credit to the Cajuns' defensive staff on their adjustments, which resulted in the Bobcats gaining 13 yards on 26 plays.  The Cajuns, meanwhile, had over 300 yards in offense during that time.

FUNNIEST MOMENT OF THE GAME --When Jeryl Brazil broke through on his kickoff return, a couple of Texas State players thought they had a chance to catch him.  Note to future opponents:  Brazil is an NCAA caliber track dude.  Save your energy.

MAKING THE ROUNDS -- Again, I got to visit with a few folks who were tailgating and got to eat their food.  I had a friend celebrating a birthday and got a chance to spend some time visiting.  I still didn't make it to the north end or the east side, however.  THat WILL happen at homecoming.  Maybe they'll have candy.

IMG_1039
loading...

BACON WRAPPED ANYTHING IS GOOD -- And that includes the bacon-wrapped sausage balls in the press box Saturday.  It was in jambalaya.  Oh, my goodness  And chicken with crab and corn topping.  And, boudin  And spinach and artichoke dip.  And dessert.  And fruit.  And fresh lemonade.  No, you can't have a press pass.

HEY, WE CAN STILL HEAR! - Again, the sound over the public address system was crystal clear.  When it happens twice in a row, that signals a trend.  The fans will no longer be able to complain about that.  Don't worry.  They'll find something else.

JOIE DE MITCH -- The Cajuns "Joie de Vivre" honoree Saturday night was my good friend (and former boss) Mike Mitchell.  The ten time winner of the John Denver look alike contest did more behind the scenes for UL than most anyone I know.  And, he did it quietly.  Without fanfare or recognition.  Until now.  I'm sure he blushed when the fans cheered.  Dude blushes easier than anyone I've ever met.  If you ever meet him, you'll love him.  Just don't let him make the coffee.

IN THE PINK --Kudos to those who wore pink in honor of breast cancer awareness month..and to those who came up with the pink headbands, which made me look very cool.  I also found a pink lariat to hold my press pass.  Glad I had a chance to represent while still wearing red.

A SALUTE TO THE SURVIVORS -- For me, it's personal.  I lost my mother to breast cancer 46 years ago today.  Seeing those who were being honored as cancer survivors Saturday made me marvel at  how much technology and the capability of early detection has improved since the late 60's.  Back then, these women may not have survived.  Today they thrive.  And that's why the donations for cancer research are so important.  And, why October is so special.  I didn't get to hug any of those folks in person...but I hugged them all in spirit.

 

 

More From 103.3 The GOAT