Stephen F. Austin (9‑2, 7‑0 Southland) hosts Northwestern State (1‑10, 0‑7 Southland) in what could be a statement game to close out the regular season. 

Why This Game Matters:

• Conference Control: SFA has already locked in a share (or more) of the Southland title, and a win would strengthen their position and momentum.
  
  

• Rivalry Edge: Even though NSU is struggling, this is a conference matchup — and SFA will want to take care of business at home and avoid any slip-ups.
  
  

• Momentum for the Postseason: A dominant performance would send a message to FCS pollsters and build confidence heading into the playoffs (if they go).
  
  

Keys to the Game:

1. Run Game Efficiency: SFA must continue to lean on its rushing attack to control the clock and eat up drives — especially against a Demons team that’s vulnerable in the trenches.
   
   

2. Protect the Football: Turnovers could be dangerous — even if NSU hasn't been strong, giving the ball away could let them hang around.
   
   

3. Red Zone Execution: SFA should convert their red zone trips into touchdowns, not just field goals, to put the game away early.
   
   

4. Defense Staying Sharp: While NSU’s offense hasn’t been explosive, SFA can’t let them light them up on big plays — continued discipline and tackling will be important.
   
   

Upside for Northwestern State:

• As the underdog, NSU might take some risks, especially if they feel they have little to lose.
  
  

• If they can put together a couple of big plays (turnovers, deep shots), they could make the game more competitive than expected.
  
  

Projection:
Given the talent gap and SFA’s strong season, they should handle this at home. Predicted final score: SFA 56 – Northwestern State 7.

Vs. Lamar Cardinals — Nov. 15, 2025

• Final Score: SFA 26, Lamar 15
  
  

• With this win, the Lumberjacks clinched at least a share of the Southland Conference title and secured the conference’s automatic qualifying spot to the FCS Playoffs.
  
  

• Key offensive plays: Gavin Rutherford ran it in from 13 yards for one TD, and Jerrell Wimbley added another on a 13-yard rush.
  
  

• SFA’s kicker, Carlos Alvarado, contributed on special teams — making two field goals (43 and 20 yards), and later added a 33-yarder to help ice the game. 

• Lamar’s response: Aiden McCown and Robert Coleman combined for 124 yards passing; Lamar scored in the second quarter and again late in the game, but couldn’t catch up.
  
  

• Significance: This was SFA’s ninth straight win, and closing the season undefeated in conference play (7‑0) gives them serious momentum heading into the postseason.
  
  

Other Notes:

• In a previous game, SFA dominated Houston Christian University (HCU) with a 50–3 win.
  
  

• Against East Texas A&M, the Lumberjacks overcame early mistakes and leaned heavily on their run game — Wimbley racked up 124 yards, and SFA’s offense ran the ball efficiently to control the clock.
  
  

Takeaway:
SFA has established itself as the top dog in the Southland this season. They’ve shown resilience, a strong ground attack, and playmakers when it matters. With the conference crown now secured, the ‘Jacks look like a real threat heading into the FCS Playoffs.