Game Details
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM CT
Location: John L. Guidry Stadium, Thibodaux, LA
Broadcast: ESPN2 (first nationally televised Nicholls home game)
Series History: Tied 6–6 all-time
Team Breakdown
Incarnate Word Cardinals (UIW)
2024 Record: 10–3 (Southland Champions)
Head Coach: Clint Killough (2nd year)
Offense: High-tempo spread attack, ranked top 10 in FCS scoring last season
Key Players:
QB Zach Calzada (Auburn transfer): poised for breakout year
WR Brandon Porter: 1,100+ yards in 2024
RB Marcus Cooper: 14 TDs last season
Defense: Opportunistic unit with 19 interceptions in 2024
X-Factor: Road composure — UIW was 5–2 away from home last season
Nicholls Colonels
2024 Record: 5–6
Head Coach: Tommy Rybacki (1st year, 11th overall with program)
Defense: Ranked 12th nationally in total defense last season
Key Players:
QB Deuce Hogan (New Mexico State transfer): strong arm, veteran presence
RB Miequle Brock Jr.: Southland Freshman of the Year, 900+ yards
LB Jake Dalmado: Led Southland with 9 sacks
WR Landon Ibieta (LSU transfer): deep threat
X-Factor: Defensive front — allowed just 83.9 rushing yards per game in 2024
Matchup Notes
Last Meeting: UIW dominated 55–10 in San Antonio (2024)
Turnover Battle: Nicholls forced 29 turnovers last season (3rd in FCS)
Portal Impact: Both teams added Power Five talent, but Nicholls made bigger defensive upgrades
Motivation: Nicholls seeks revenge and to start the Rybacki era with a statement win
Expect a gritty, defensive battle early. Nicholls will keep it close with a revamped front seven and home-field energy, but UIW’s offensive balance and experience should carry them through late.
