Mississippi State prepares to host ULM for the 2026 season opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 12:33 PM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026
College SportsMississippi State hosts Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday night for the opening game of the 2026 college football season. ULM enters the matchup with two new coordinators, as offensive coordinator Jesse Montalto implements a run-heavy system with RPO elements and defensive coordinator Troy Reffett returns to install a 3-3 stack scheme. Third-year quarterback Aidan Armenta leads the Warhawks' offense, relying on a familiar group of wide receivers including Nic Trujillo, J.P. Coulter, and Brandon Buckhaulter. While ULM play-by-play voice Mike Hammett noted the significant challenge posed by the speed, size, and depth of an SEC opponent, he emphasized the experience many ULM players have against major conference competition. The game is expected to take place in a raucous environment at Mississippi State, with the home side featuring head coach Zach Arnett and quarterback Kamario Taylor.
- •Mississippi State faces Louisiana-Monroe this Saturday night in their season opener.
- •ULM offensive coordinator Jesse Montalto is transitioning the team to a run-based RPO scheme.
- •Defensive coordinator Troy Reffett has returned to ULM to implement a 3-3 stack defense.
- •Aidan Armenta returns as the ULM starting quarterback for his third season.
- •Mississippi State is led by head coach Zach Arnett and quarterback Kamario Taylor.
- 12:33 PMYahoo Sports — Q&A with ULM play-by-play voice Mike Hammett
"Mississippi State opens its 2026 season at home against Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday night. Before the Bulldogs and Warhawks go at it, the Daily Journal caught up with Mike Hammett, the play-by-play voice of ULM, to preview the matchup. What have been some of the biggest storylines to come out of Monroe this offseason? I think the biggest thing here is two new coordinators. Offensive ...
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