THIBODAUX, La. - The University of the Incarnate Word football team fell to the Nicholls Colonels, 20-6, in the opening game of the 2025 season on Saturday afternoon. 
 
AJ Tisdell led the team in tackles, racking up eight solo on the day. Kendrick Stone wasn't far behind with seven total tackles with one tackle for loss. As a team the Cardinals only allowed 89 yards on the ground and forced one fumble. 
 
The Cardinals had a strong first drive, moving the ball on the ground and through the air. However, things stalled in the red zone and the UIW 10 play 58 yard drive finished with a field goal, putting the Cards up 3-0. 
 
The UIW defense stood strong only allowing two field goals through the first 30 minutes, but the Colonels took advantage of a turnover, turning it into a score. The Cardinals trailed 13-3 at the break. 
 
In the second half the Cardinals had an opportunity to punch it in after a muffed punt gave UIW the ball on the 11 yard line. Once again the Cards couldn't find the endzone and instead cut the lead to a single score with another Will Farris field goal. 
 
In the fourth quarter the defense gave up it's first touchdown of the game and the Cardinals fell by a final score of 20-6. 
 
UIW will be back in action next Saturday when the Cardinals host Eastern Washington at Benson Stadium.
 
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--UIW CARDINALS--