For the Warhawks to make a bowl game this season it’ll take at least one miracle over their final two games.

But first, ULM must take care of business against Arkansas State. 

Both schools are in the first year of experienced head coaches, but the stories have played out in two different directions. 

Red Wolves head coach Butch Jones garnered media attention when he joined Arkansas State after his time serving under Nick Saban at Alabama this offseason.

 However, the Red Wolves have lost eight straight after winning their season opener. 

Saturday’s matchup is ULM’s last chance to get back on track before two road matchups against LSU and the Ragin’ Cajuns.

Turnovers have stifled the Red Wolves all season. Arkansas State has committed multiple turnovers in five of their nine games this season.

The Red Wolves were shut down in their 48-14 loss to Appalachian State. The Red Wolves gave up 34 unanswered points in their homecoming matchup.

But their high turnover rate has not stopped the Red Wolves from getting the ball to their favorites receivers.

Wide receivers Corey Rucker and Te’Vailance Hunter have hauled in 12 of the 20 Red Wolves passing touchdowns this season. 

Rucker’s eight receiving touchdowns puts him at seventh in the nation.

The Red Wolves also have a dangerous return man by the name of Alan Lamar. Although ULM’s special teams has been great at handling returners all season, the Warhawks will be tested by the nation’s leader in return yards.

The Warhawks will hope to see quarterback Chandler Rogers return to the level of play that earned him player of the week honors against South Alabama. 

After being injured in their blowout loss to App State and a less-than-stellar outing against Texas State, a revival by Rogers will do wonders for the Warhawks.

ULM has learned that the betting odds mean nothing this season. But for just the second time this season the Warhawks are favorites heading into this weekend’s matchup with the Red Wolves. ESPN’s Football Power Index gives a slight edge to the Warhawks.

A ULM victory would end the Red Wolves’ 11-game win streak over the Warhawks which dates back to 2010.