Led by seventh-year head coach Matt Viator, the Cowboys compiled an overall record of 7–4 with a mark of 4–3 in conference play, tying for fourth place in the Southland.

McNeese State played home games at Cowboy Stadium in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

[1][2][3] After Texas A&M bought out the 2012 game scheduled against McNeese State, the Cowboys were able to find a replacement to open the season in the form of the Blue Raiders.

McMurry and McNeese State have met twice before, in 1957 and 1958, with the War Hawks owning a 2–0 record against the Cowboys.

The Cowboys own a 24–8–1 record against Sam Houston State, but the Bearkats have won the recent games.