Oct. 24, 2026, 12:00 p.m. CT
Louisiana football hits the road again, and its got revenge on its mind as it faces Southern Mississippi in Week 8 of the 2026 college football season (4 p.m., ESPN+).
Last time the Ragin’ Cajuns and the Golden Eagles faced off, it was UL’s homecoming, but it was a day that ended in misery for the Cajuns as they lost 22-10. Now the Cajuns (5-2, 2-1 SBC), have a chance to get some get-back, with a shot to spoil all of Southern Miss’s homecoming festivities.
To do so, UL will need another big night from its defense. The Cajuns’ defense was extra stingy last week, holding Troy to a season-low six points. Leading the charge will be senior linebacker Jake St. Andre and sophomore cornerback Brent Gordon Jr. On the flip side, the Cajuns will also hope to have a heavy lunch, with Lunch Winfield at the helm of their offense. Along with revenge, the Cajuns goal of getting bowl eligible is also on the line in Hattiesburg this week.
For the Golden Eagles (1-5, 0-2), they are hoping homecoming will bring them some momentum after starting the year with so much adversity. They will look for quarterback Landry Lyydy to lead them as they hunt for win No. 2 of the season.
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Louisiana football vs Southern Miss live score
Louisiana football at Southern Miss updates
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Louisiana football vs Southern Miss prediction
Stopping the run will be key for the Cajuns defense as they are going to want to force the USM to throw the ball more. Forcing Lyydy to make things happen can work in the Cajuns favor as Lyydy has thrown for the same amount of touchdowns as interceptions so far this season. Offensively, UL will look for a better outing in the air after a shaky outing for Winfield last week. The dual-threat signal caller can always fall back on his legs if need be, but will also look to make things happen with key weapons like KeDaruis Wade and Trenton Chaney. If the Cajuns defense and offense can play complimentary once again, they should snag win No. 6. Louisiana 35, Southern Miss 12
Louisiana football vs Southern Miss weather update
Saturday’s matchup will be played in mainly clear skies with sunny weather throughout the evening. It’ll be a high of 80 degrees and low of 50 degrees with a 4% chance of rain. Winds will be light and variable throughout the evening blowing from about 4 mph to 8 mph.
Shannon Belt covers high school sports and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns for The Daily Advertiser as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow her high school and Cajuns coverage on X, formerly known as Twitter: @ShannonBelt3. Got questions regarding HS/UL athletics? Send them to Shannon Belt at sbelt@gannett.com.