Incarnate Word vs. Nicholls – Week 0 Showdown

The 2025 college football season kicks off in Southland Conference style as Incarnate Word (UIW) and Nicholls square off in Week 0. This matchup isn’t just about opening the season—it’s a meeting between the last two Southland Conference champions. Nicholls captured the title in 2023, while UIW dominated the league in 2024 on their way to another deep FCS playoff run.

Head-to-Head History

Since their first meeting in 2014, UIW and Nicholls have built a competitive rivalry. The all-time series sits tied at 6–6, with both sides having stretches of success. Recently, Nicholls claimed three out of four before UIW flipped the script last season. In October 2024, the Cardinals hammered the Colonels 55–10, their largest margin of victory in the series, underscoring the program’s rise to national prominence.

Coaching Matchup

UIW head coach Clint Killough enters his third season with a sparkling 20–5 overall record. He guided the Cardinals to an 11–3 mark in 2024, an undefeated conference season, and a spot in the FCS quarterfinals. Killough’s ability to maintain UIW’s high-powered offensive identity while adding depth through recruiting and transfers has earned him Southland Coach of the Year honors.

For Nicholls, 2025 marks a new era under head coach Tommy Rybacki, who steps into the role after serving as the Colonels’ defensive coordinator. He takes over from longtime coach Tim Rebowe, who retired after compiling a 57–56 record. Rybacki inherits a team in transition, blending returning contributors with a large incoming class of transfers and recruits.

Key Players: UIW

The Cardinals enter the season ranked No. 4 in the FCS preseason coaches’ poll and No. 5 in the media poll, positioning them as legitimate national title contenders. Their roster is loaded with talent:

• Jalen Walthall (WR), the reigning Southland Offensive Player of the Year, is a game-breaking weapon who tallied 1,290 yards and 14 touchdowns last season.

• Declan Williams (EDGE), a preseason All-American, anchors a defense that complements UIW’s explosive offense.

• Traveon Newsome (OL) provides leadership and strength up front.

The Cardinals also bolstered their lineup with transfers, including Chedon James (WR) and Tyler Morton (DB), both preseason All-America picks. At quarterback, Richard Torres was named the starter, giving the offense stability and continuity as the season begins.

Key Players: Nicholls

Nicholls is looking to bounce back from a 4–8 campaign in 2024, but the Colonels retain several impact players:

• Miequle Brock Jr. (RB), a versatile back and return man who can change the field.

• Rasheed Lovelace (DT), a force in the trenches.

• Hayden Shaheen (LB) and Laurence Sullivan Jr. (CB), who bring leadership and toughness to the defense.

The Colonels also added a wave of new talent, including DK Kency Jr. (RB, LSU transfer) and Landon Ibieta (WR, LSU transfer). If the newcomers mesh quickly with returning leaders, Nicholls could play spoiler in the conference race.

Championship Aspirations for UIW

UIW’s lofty preseason ranking reflects more than hype—it highlights a program built to contend for a national title. With continuity at the top under Killough, elite returning talent, and depth bolstered by transfers, the Cardinals have a clear path to the FCS Championship if they stay healthy and consistent. Their offensive firepower, led by Walthall and Torres, combined with a defense stacked with all-conference performers, makes them one of the most balanced teams in the country.

A strong start in Week 0 will not only solidify their standing as Southland favorites but also set the tone for a potential January run to the title game in Nashville.

Final Outlook

This matchup features two programs with championship pedigrees and contrasting trajectories. UIW is riding momentum, nationally respected, and armed with star power, while Nicholls enters a new era under Rybacki, blending experience with fresh energy. As the last two Southland champions collide, the Week 0 clash serves as both a test of Nicholls’ rebuild and the first step in UIW’s march toward a possible FCS Championship season.