WACO, Texas – Following their victory over Northwestern State, the Lamar University Cardinals jumped to 10^th in the AFCA FCS Coaches Poll for the first time in poll history. LU also jumped three spots to 11^th in the STATS Perform Top 25 poll just missing a top 10 ranking in both major polls.
 
Among other polls, the Cardinals moved into the top 10 in the FCS Triumvirate (9^th) and are 11^th in both the FCS Nation Radio and Redshirts Top 25 polls.
 
Moving into the top 10 marks another significant development in the program under head coach Pete Rossomando. The 2024 campaign marked the first time in program history the Cardinals had been ranked in either the STATS Perform or AFCA Coaches Poll – the two major polls for FCS football. Last season marked the first time LU ended the season ranked in either of the major polls and 2026 marks the first top 10 ranking in one of the two major polls.
 
The jump comes following Big Red's 42-14 victory over Northwestern State – Lamar's third consecutive win – as the Cards improve to 4-1 (.800) overall and 2-0 in Southland Conference play.
 
The Cardinals return to action Saturday when they host UIW. The game against the league's other Cardinals is set for a 3 p.m. kick from Provost Umphrey Stadium. It will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and Newstalk 560 KLVI.