The RedHawks lost to both ranked opponents they faced, Iowa and Ohio State.
The Cajuns won four consecutive New Orleans Bowls under head coach Mark Hudspeth.
In the 2011 edition, the 8–4 Cajuns beat San Diego State, 32–30, on a game-winning field goal.
[8] The team returned to play in the 2016 New Orleans Bowl, with the 6–6 Cajuns losing to Southern Miss, 21–28, one of the closest games in rivalry history.
[9] In additional to Louisiana quarterback Levi Lewis being named the game's overall MVP,[1] wide receiver Ja’Marcus Bradley, defensive back Eric Garror, and placekicker Stevie Artigue were recognized as offensive, defensive, and special teams MVPs, respectively.