BEAUMONT, Texas – For the first time in program history the Lamar University football team has been voted into the top 25. The Cardinals are 23^rd in the week one College Sports Madness (CSM) Top 25 poll. The Cardinals are one of five Southland teams ranked in the CSM poll.
 
The Cardinals are also receiving votes in the STATS FCS and Amway Coaches Top 25 polls.
 
Big Red opened its season Thursday at home against No. 16 (NAIA Top 25 poll) Bethel (TN) University with an impressive 65-16 victory. The Cardinals racked up 658 yards of total offense and scored nine touchdowns behind senior quarterback Jordan Hoy. The Rockwall, Texas native completed 18-of-24 passes for 226 yards and three touchdowns. He also carried the ball 10 times for 50 yards and three scores.
 
The Cardinals' defense was just as impressive holding Bethel to fewer than 200 yards (197) of total offense, while forcing three turnovers. LU also held the Wildcats to a 3-of-18 (.167) performance on third downs.
 
Big Red's next test will take place Saturday, Sept. 7, when they host Mississippi Valley State. The Delta Devils are 0-1 on the season after getting edged out by Tennessee State in their season opener. MVSU dropped the game by six, 26-20.