All You Need to Know: Louisiana vs. Rice at Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium

Graphic Created By: Bayou State Media Staff

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A New Era for Cajun Football

The 2025 football season begins with history in the making, as Louisiana opens against Rice on Saturday night at the newly christened Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium in Lafayette. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CT, marking not just the first game of the year but the first time fans and media will experience the $65 million transformation of the venue formerly known as Cajun Field.

The renovations are the most extensive since the stadium’s original opening in 1971. The new west side includes luxury suites, loge boxes, club seating, and an indoor club lounge, along with expanded concessions and upgraded amenities designed to elevate the fan experience. The facility now rivals some of the best in the Group of Five and is being celebrated as a new era for Cajun Nation.

Louisiana’s Outlook

On the field, Louisiana enters the season as the favorite in the Sun Belt West after a 10–4 campaign a year ago. Senior quarterback Walker Howard takes over the offense, surrounded by a strong cast of skill players, including running backs Bill Davis and Zylan Perry. The wide receiver room is deep, with Robert Williams, Caden Jensen, and Jaydon Johnson expected to be major targets. Defensively, the Cajuns bring back six starters led by All-Sun Belt linebacker Tyree Skipper and pass rusher Cameron Whitfield, both cornerstones in coordinator Jim Salgado’s system.

Rice’s New Identity

Rice comes to Lafayette with a new identity under first-year head coach Scott Abell. Known for his dynamic spread-option offense at Davidson, Abell will debut the so-called “Rice gun choice,” an attack built around motion, misdirection, and tempo. Quarterback Chase Jenkins will lead the way, with Quinton Jackson in the backfield and Aaron Turner out wide. Defensively, the Owls return experience at linebacker and safety, though consistency has been an issue.

History Between the Teams

The history between the schools is limited but balanced. Saturday marks just the second trip to Lafayette for Rice since 1988, and the all-time series is tied at 3–3. With Louisiana looking to cement itself as the Sun Belt’s standard-bearer and Rice seeking a fresh start in a new system, the opener promises intrigue on both sides.

How to Watch and Listen

Fans attending the game should plan ahead. Credentials and tickets will be scanned electronically this year, and parking passes must be claimed before arrival. For those watching from home, the game will stream live on ESPN+, while Jay Walker, Cody Junot, and Dawson Eiserloh will have the call on the Ragin’ Cajuns Radio Network.

Pregame Atmosphere

Game day in Lafayette has always been more than just football—it’s a cultural event. Fans can soak in the energy of Ragin’ Cajun Tailgating on the grassy lots surrounding the stadium, a tradition that is among the best in the Sun Belt. For those wanting a meal before kickoff, downtown Lafayette offers several options, including The Original Don’s Seafood, a longtime Cajun favorite, and Johnson’s Boucaniere, known for its smoked meats and boudin.

Where to Go After the Game

When the final whistle blows, Lafayette’s food scene continues the celebration. Just minutes from the stadium, Prejean’s serves Cajun staples like gumbo and étouffée late into the night. Deano’s Pizza is a local classic for those craving something more casual, while Legends Bar & Grill provides a lively postgame environment. To close out the evening on a sweet note, fans can stop at Borden’s Ice Cream Shoppe on Johnston Street—the last remaining Borden’s ice cream parlor in the country.

Final Thoughts

Saturday night’s game is about more than a season opener. It’s the unveiling of a home reborn, a place where the Ragin’ Cajuns will forge their future while honoring their traditions. From the first whistle to the last bowl of gumbo after the game, Louisiana vs. Rice promises to be both a football milestone and a cultural celebration in Acadiana.

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