On Monday morning Sunbelt Leaders would cast a vote extending Louisiana Tech an offer to rejoin the SBC and become the 14th member. The move would take a good amount of work as schools in the eastern division had several points of contention to the motion to extend LA Tech an offer. In the end the Bulldogs will join a conference that facilitates a significant reduction in expenses as colleges are looking for ways to slim down athletic budgets.

As the House Settlement takes affect in the coming weeks how will the 11 athletic programs the represent the Group of 5 and FCS Division 1 levels react. The opportunity to redefine the program exist for schools like Tulane, UL Lafayette and LA Tech with more scholarship opportunities in all sports. But will new funding sources be the solution for FCS schools who are struggling to operate outside of a deficit.

Information on House Bill 639:

https://lailluminator.com/2025/06/08/louisiana-hikes-sports-gambling-tax-to-subsidize-college-athletics/

With a Ranked opponent coming to Uptown Tulane is in a position to return to the top of the group of 5. K-STATE is looking for an opportunity to get ready for Big 12 play but if Tulane wants a shot at the playoffs a win in one of the next two games is non-negotiable. As the Green Wave celebrate the 10th anniversary of Yulman Stadium head coach Jon Sumrall is ready to see how his developing QB situation takes shape against a quality opponent.

The Sunbelt schools come off complete wins vs SWAC opponents but week 2 sees a step up in difficulty. ULL is hoping to continue rolling as a playoff dark horse, while ULM would find staying competitive with UAB as a step in the right direction.

On the FCS level Southeastern and Northwestern St are looking for win number one of the season. While a SWAC opponent looks favorable for the Demons. But the Lions are headed to Hattiesburg and will need a big leap in effort to ground the Golden Eagles.