No. 25 West Alabama opens Gulf South Conference play Saturday at Delta State, looking to rebound from a loss to West Florida. The Tigers’ defense has forced 18 turnovers this season, but they’ll face a Statesmen team that has won three straight after a rough start. Delta State’s recent defensive surge and running game could test UWA, while its offense has struggled to produce consistently.

By the Numbers
  • West Alabama: 5-2; averages 21.1 points and 319.4 yards per game.
  • Delta State: 3-3; averages 15.1 points and 216.7 yards per game.
  • West Alabama has forced 18 turnovers, fifth-most nationally.
  • Delta State has allowed 4.3 points and 253.6 yards per game during its three-game winning streak.
Yes, But

Delta State’s 3-3 record masks a sharp turnaround: after giving up 49 points per game in its first three contests, it has tightened its defense considerably. The Statesmen’s offense remains a concern, averaging just 15.1 points per game, but its rushing attack—led by Nick Clark—offers a potential way to challenge West Alabama.

State of Play
  • West Alabama quarterback Luther Richesson has 14 total touchdowns; his top three receivers have combined for 749 yards and seven touchdowns.
  • Delta State redshirt freshman Emile Picarella is expected to start at quarterback.
  • Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. Saturday at Parker Field at McCool Stadium in Cleveland, Mississippi.
What's Next

West Alabama will try to contain Clark and keep Delta State’s offense from building on its recent momentum. A win would give the Tigers a strong start to conference play; the Statesmen will aim to extend their streak to four.

Bottom Line

The matchup hinges on whether West Alabama’s turnover-forcing defense can disrupt Delta State’s ground game—and whether the Tigers’ offense can take advantage of a Statesmen defense that has improved dramatically.