On Saturday, Sept. 24, Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s football team nabbed their first win of the season against Lamar University on an eventful night at Harry Turpin Stadium. The Demons took control of their Southland Conference and home opener and defeated the Cardinals 35-27.

The key to the win: consistency in the quarterback position. Sophomore quarterback Zachary Clement pushed Lamar’s defense to the edge with 28 completions on 48 attempts with 366 passing yards.

“You saw some big plays on third down not only with his arm but also with his legs,” fifth-year head coach Brad Laird said. “That prompted us to get some rhythm and momentum late in the first half to lead us to victory.”

In his first start of the season, Clement beat his own career passing record, originally at 214 yards from last week against the University of Southern Mississippi. But Clement’s success wasn’t the only thing that got the Demons on a roll.

Huge second and third quarter action from the offensive gave the Demons the 21-10 lead at the half after being down by 10. During the third quarter, NSU scored three touchdowns on three straight drives, including an 80-yard strike from Clement to running back Scooter Adams.

“We have a lot to play for,” said senior defensive lineman Isaiah Longino. “We understand our problems. We knew we were missing tackles. We weren’t being physical. We had to flip the switch this week.”

Overall, a win is a win and Northwestern State did it in style. With Family Day and the Inferno Run on the menu earlier in the day, the Natchitoches crowd was able to experience a gameday like no other.

The Demons return back into Southland Conference play as they face Nicholls State University at home on Oct. 1 at 3:30 p.m.