After a disappointing performance against No. 23 Missouri, the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns are looking to bounce back strong in Week 4 as they hit the road to face Eastern Michigan.
With only four passing yards recorded in their last game, the Cajuns are eager to leave that memory behind and refocus on playing their brand of tough, physical football.
Coach Michael Desormeaux and his team know they need to clean up their offense—especially the passing game—if they want to carry momentum into the Sun Belt Conference.
Fixing the Passing Game is Priority No. 1
The biggest concern coming out of last week’s loss wasn’t just the defeat, but the historic low in the passing department. Coach Desormeaux didn’t sugarcoat it.
“That stat line on Saturday was absurd,” he said. “We’ve got to find a way to manufacture some throw game like we have in the past.”
Quarterback Daniel Beale struggled to find rhythm against Missouri, and the wide receiver group hasn’t had a breakout star yet. This week, the coaching staff is working hard to improve passing consistency, rebuild confidence, and rethink offensive packaging, rather than adding new plays.
Team Leaders Step Up to Regroup
It wasn’t just the coaches feeling the pressure. After a quiet and frustrated return from Columbia, senior leaders like Jax Harrington held a players-only meeting to lift morale and reset the mindset.
Coach Desormeaux emphasized the importance of honesty over harshness.
“I don’t believe in sitting in a meeting room and just brow-beating somebody for not playing well,” he explained. “You’ve got to be matter-of-fact and move forward.”
This kind of leadership is key for a team that still has big goals, including chasing the Sun Belt Conference title.
Injuries and Returns: Mixed News for Cajuns
There’s some good news for the offensive line as starter Kaden Moreau is expected to return. However, Mackey Maillho remains sidelined, and safety Maurion Eleam, who was carted off the field against Missouri, is set to miss extended time due to injury.
Eleam is undergoing further tests, including MRIs, to determine the full extent of the damage.
The return of Moreau should help with pass protection and give Beale more time in the pocket to make better throws.
Eastern Michigan: A Chance to Rebuild Confidence
The Cajuns’ upcoming opponent, Eastern Michigan, hasn’t won a game this season and is currently giving up nearly 300 rushing yards per game. That’s a golden opportunity for Louisiana’s strong running back duo—Bill Davis and Zylan Perry—to make an impact.
This matchup is also a chance for Daniel Beale to bounce back and for the receiving corps—led by Shelton Sampson and Landon Batitse—to step up and find more rhythm.
Coach Desormeaux wants his team to return to their identity.
“Let’s go play physical on both sides. Let’s go play with precision and build confidence going into conference play.”
After hitting a low point against Missouri, Louisiana football has a chance to reset and regain momentum against Eastern Michigan.
The focus is clear—fix the passing game, stay united, and rely on physical football to carry them forward. With conference play approaching, this game could be a turning point for the Ragin’ Cajuns if they execute their plan with clarity and confidence.
