The odds were insurmountable, and the final result showed.  ULM played the proverbial money game in its season opener and lost 59-20 to No. 2 Texas.

There were some positives, such as forcing three turnovers, converting two field-goal attempts and scoring on a 75-yard pass play.

In the end, however, the Warhawks were overmatched.

"Three turnovers those cost you and you can't do that against a great football team," ULM coach Charlie Weatherbie said. "We have been in these situations before, playing against teams like this, of this caliber, and you cannot afford to give them anything if you want to be in the football game. They've got a great football team.

ULM tried to mix it up offensively, but establishing an effective running game proved most difficult.

"As far as their defensive schemes, they proved the reason why they are No. 2 in the country," junior tailback Frank Goodin said. "They swarm to the ball, and they get there quickly. They must have a ball-radar."

Despite the opening loss, ULM did enough positive things and it should correct a lot of errors this week when it plays Texas Southern.

 

Season Recap:

Texas 59, ULM 20-Texas jumped out to a 38-10 lead and was never threatened in the season opener. Three turnovers didn't help the Warhawks' cause.

 

NOTES, QUOTES

? Senior WR Darrell McNeal, the team's top playmaker at wideout, was held to one catch for 13 yards at Texas, but saw time in the backfield at the QB position.

? ULM had just 101 yards rushing and averaged only 2.9 yards a carry against Texas.

? ULM received $825,000 to play at No. 2 Texas.

 

Game Ball Goes To:  

LB Cardia Jackson-The preseason all-conference candidate had eight tackles and forced a fumble against Texas.

 

Keep An Eye On:  

QB Trey Revell-The junior was 14-of-30 for one touchdown and an interception on 197 yards passing, but the experience of playing against Texas should make him a better player in the long run.

 

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

Looking Good:

Junior RB Frank Goodin gained 60 yards and scored a touchdown. He ran hard and should be one of the top backs in the Sun Belt.

Sophomore Darius Prelow had a solid first game with 10 tackles

Senior Otis Stamps collected his second career interception.

Sophomore PK Radi Jabour made both of his field-goal attempts against the Longhorns.

 

Still Needs Work:   ULM forced three turnovers, but its three miscues proved most costly. One turnover was a snap over quarterback Trey Revell's head, while another was a poor center to QB exchange.

QB Trey Revell-The junior had his moments, but will need to be more effective in the future. This week's game at home against Texas Southern should provide such an opportunity.

Although it was facing a superior team, ULM needs to concentrate on its running game and make it a strength. That will allow Revell to make more plays.