ULM

The Warhawks lost their most productive offensive weapons to the transfer portal, creating a talent vacuum that newcomers will struggle to fill. Jonathan Bibbs took his 22.9 PPA production to UCF, while Tyler Griffin departed for East Tennessee State after contributing 12.9 PPA at receiver. ULM's offense ranks 126th nationally at -6.5 points below average, and the defense grades even worse at 133rd (-8.5), leaving the Warhawks with a brutal -15.0 overall rating that places them 132nd in the country. Quarterback Aidan Armenta returns as the starter, gaining reinforcements from Memphis transfer Bryce Anderson at tight end and Houston backup Austin Carlisle at quarterback.

JP+ projects just 0.9 wins for ULM in what appears to be a three-game schedule featuring Mississippi State, UAB, and FAU — all presenting significant challenges for a roster that surrendered 35.0 PPA through departures while adding only 9.9 PPA in return. The defense's woeful ranking suggests opponents will move the ball at will, while the anemic offense lacks the proven playmakers needed to keep pace in shootouts. If Armenta takes a major step forward and Anderson provides immediate impact, the Warhawks might steal a game. If not, this could be a historically difficult season in Monroe.