For a game that came together in mid-August, Louisiana-Monroe hosting UTEP on Saturday makes a lot of sense.
These are programs that can relate to one another.
Both are “group of five” teams without much recent tradition, steadily building and heading to something better, both seeking consistency early in a season where they have shown promise but need a win to kick-start their season.
They are both breaking in a sophomore first-year starter at quarterback, albeit one who has been in the program.
The Warhawks, in their fifth season under coach Matt Viator, particularly need a victory as a 10-point favorite as they look to rebound from an 0-2 start coming off a 38-17 loss to Texas State.