The Cowboys will host a rare weekday afternoon game on Monday when Stephen F. Austin comes to town.

The two teams will renew a rivalry for the first time since SFA returned to the Southland after three seasons in the Western Athletic Conference. But the Lumberjacks look nothing like they were expected to.

While McNeese State is on course, SFA has struggled. It entered Monday’s game just 8-10 overall and a stunning 1-6 in the league.

“They are a very good team still,” said McNeese head coach Will Wade. “They have just had a hard time scoring. They have a lot of talent.”

The Lumberjacks are last in the league in scoring in conference games, averaging only 61 points. McNeese is first in defense, allowing the same number.

The Cowboys also lead the league in scoring at 80.3 points per game. Still, Wade is concerned.

The game’s tipoff is set for 3 p.m., moved up three hours due to expected inclement weather in the area over the next few days. Reserved and general admission tickets will be half-priced. 

“We wanted to do what is in the best interest of our fans, players, and SFA,” said McNeese Athletic Director Heath Schroyer.

Walk-up tickets for the game will be half-price.

McNeese will be looking for its ninth straight win overall and 18th consecutive in Southland play over the last two seasons. The Cowboys have also won 25 of their last 25, both at home and against SLC competition.

McNeese will also be trying to remain alone in first place in the conference. The Cowboys are 13-5, 7-0 and ranked 12th in the nation among mid-major programs. They hold a one-game lead on Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

Still, Wade is concerned about the Lumberjacks.

“They (SFA) are a physical team,” Wade said. “They play a unique style of defense. We have to have a quick turnaround.”

McNeese is coming off a 75-64 win over Lamar on Saturday. The Cowboys know they have a target on their backs as they try for their second straight SLC championship.

“We are going to get everybody’s best every time out,” said McNeese forward Christian Shumate. “We understand our standard.”

The Cowboys could be without starting forward Joe Charles, who injured his ankle during the first minute of the second half against Lamar. Charles turned his ankle after coming down from blocking a shot.

If Charles can’t go, Brandon Murray will likely fill his role. Murray scored a season-high 14 Saturday in his most extended time since returning from injury himself.

“We are not going to rush him back,” said Wade. “We are not going to take any chances. If you know Joe, he is going to want to play.

“Brandon did a really good job Saturday. He played more minutes than we expected.”

Murray, who was a starter before his injury against Louisiana-Lafayette, said he is ready for any role.

“However much coach wants to play me, I’ll give 100 percent,” Murray said.