The team indeed looks to be improved in coach Billy Napier's second season. Sure, there were more than their fair share of mistakes, but the Cajuns displayed much more depth than a year ago. The defense kept the Cajuns in the game early on and the team played gutsy for four quarters. Last year, MSU's offense was 9-of-12 on third and fourth down conversions, and was limited to 5-of-11 Saturday. UL's rushing defense continued to be an issue, giving up 261 rushing yards to Mississippi State after giving up 219 a game last season.