Stephen F. Austin seeks improvement in 2018

Published Jan. 18, 2018 1:54 p.m. ET

(STATS) - An experienced Stephen F. Austin squad is set to tackle its 11-game schedule which was announced Thursday.

Among the highlights are a first-ever matchup at Mississippi State in the Sept. 1 season opener and the 93rd Battle of the Piney Woods against Sam Houston State on Oct. 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston.

The Lumberjacks will host five games at Home Bryce Stadium, starting with Division II Tarleton State (Sept. 8) and then continuing against Southland Conference members Abilene Christian (Sept. 22), Central Arkansas (Oct. 13), Lamar (Oct. 27) and Northwestern State (Nov. 15) in the 53rd annual Battle For Chief Cado.

"It's certainly an exciting and challenging schedule," said coach Clint Conque, whose program - 4-7 last season - returns 11 players with starting experience on offense and nine on defense.

"Once again, a heavy Texas home and away slate (eight of 11 games). The schedule gives our young men motivation as we embark on an eight-week offseason and gear up for spring drills in March."

2018 Stephen F. Austin Schedule

Sept. 1, at Mississippi State

Sept. 8, Tarleton State

Sept. 15, at Incarnate Word*

Sept. 22, Abilene Christian*

Sept. 29, at McNeese*

Oct. 6, Sam Houston State* (NRG Stadium in Houston)

Oct. 13, Central Arkansas*

Oct. 20, at Houston Baptist*

Oct. 27, Lamar* (Homecoming)

Nov. 10, at Nicholls*

Nov. 15, Northwestern State*

* - Southland Conference game