UL Monroe Warhawks

ULM enters the season with a revamped offense under new coordinator Jesse Montalto, aiming to fix a unit that ranked last in the Sun Belt in passing yards per game (160.4) and averaged only 16.6 points per game in 2025. Returning quarterback Aidan Armenta (1,628 yards, 12 TDs, 8 INTs) is back, but the receiving corps is largely unproven beyond Nic Trujillo (23 catches, 368 yards, 4 TDs). Memphis transfer tight end Bryce Anderson and a host of junior college and portal additions are expected to provide a spark. The running game, a relative strength last year, must replace leading rusher Zach Palmer-Smith, with former Louisville and Miami back Donald Chaney Jr. stepping in. The offensive line returns only starting tackle AJ Vinson after losing four starters.

The Warhawks defense was a bright spot in 2025, finishing sixth in the Sun Belt in total defense (384.8 ypg) and showing balance against the run (162.6 ypg) and pass (222.3 ypg). Linebackers Noah Flemmings and Marcus Ross return as key pieces of the rotation, but the unit must replace several starters on the defensive line and in the secondary. Cornerback Armoni Rue, a former junior-college All-American who played at UTEP, is one of four new faces in the secondary. If the defense can build on last year's gains, it could keep ULM competitive while the offense finds its footing.

Head coach Bryant Vincent has reshaped the roster with over 20 junior college transfers and another 20 from the portal, creating a largely new team. While this influx brings potential, it also introduces uncertainty in chemistry and depth. The Warhawks have struggled to sustain success in recent years, starting 3-1 in 2025 before losing eight straight, and a similar pattern could emerge if the new pieces don't gel quickly. The kicking game is also unsettled, with three kickers (Max Larson, Jacob Chambless, Abram Murray) competing for the job.

ULM faces a demanding slate, beginning with a road trip to Mississippi State, a Power Four opponent. The Warhawks have historically struggled away from home, and with a projected season travel of over 3,200 miles, fatigue could be a factor. The Sun Belt schedule includes several tough matchups, and ULM will need to win close conference games to return to bowl contention. The team's power rating (-18.3) reflects the uphill climb, but a favorable early stretch could build momentum if the offense improves.

Quarterback Aidan Armenta's development is critical; he must cut down on interceptions and improve efficiency to elevate the passing game. Running back Donald Chaney Jr. has the talent to be a workhorse if he stays healthy. On defense, linebacker Noah Flemmings and cornerback Armoni Rue are playmakers who can disrupt opponents. The kicking competition could decide close games, and punter Makenzie Ryan (38.8-yard average) will be important for field position. The Warhawks' bowl hopes hinge on whether the new offensive pieces can click and the defense can maintain its 2025 level.