Cowboys Offense Struggles in a 26-6 Loss

McNeese's offensive woes were highlighted in a 26-6 loss to Southeastern LA. in Hammond Saturday afternoon. The loss dropped the Cowboys into a 3 way tie for first in the Southland Conference with Nicholls State and Incarnate Word. McNeese is now 6-3 overall and 5-2 in the conference. It was the 4th straight loss in Strawberry Stadium for the Pokes.

The first half was a defensive battle with the Lions up 10-6 at halftime. Trailing by 4 late in the 2nd quarter, the Cowboys recovered a muffed punt deep in SLU territory. McNeese scored what would have been the go ahead touchdown on the next play, but a penalty wiped out the score. 3 plays later, the Cowboys were out of field goal range.

The 2nd half, McNeese struggled to move the ball with QBs Cody Orgeron and James Tabery hobbled with injuries. 3rd team QB Matt Keller was forced to take a few snaps for McNeese before Orgeron returned in the 4th. The Lions outgained the Cowboys 322-181. McNeese had just 21 yards rushing. The quarterbacks combined for 21 completions on 44 attempts for 166 yards. Gunnar Raborn hit a pair of field goals of 22 and 37 yards for the only McNeese points.

The Pokes continue on the road next week in Natchitoches against Northwestern State.