UL Monroe tops Jackson State 30-14 in season opener

On Thursday night, UL Monroe opened their season with a strong performance against Jackson State, an FCS team, winning 30-14. Freshman running back Ahmad Hardy was a standout, rushing for 103 yards and scoring a touchdown, helping the Warhawks secure the victory. The game marked the debut of Bryant Vincent as head coach for UL Monroe, who saw his team rally in the second half after a competitive first half. The Warhawks took the lead just before halftime with a 1-yard touchdown run by Hardy, following an interception by Wydett Williams Jr. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum in favor of UL Monroe. Jackson State managed to tie the game early in the third quarter with a touchdown run by Jacobian Morgan, but the Warhawks responded decisively. UL Monroe finished the game strong, scoring the final 16 points. James Jones contributed with a 22-yard touchdown run, followed by a field goal and a 28-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback Aidan Armenta to Javon Cambell. Armenta's only pass of the game proved to be crucial in sealing the victory. Oklahoma transfer General Booty played a significant role, completing 10 of 14 passes for 104 yards and a touchdown before exiting the game. In contrast, Jackson State's Morgan had a productive outing, completing 23 of 28 passes for 282 yards and a touchdown, but it was not enough to overcome the Warhawks' late-game surge.