They are the first class that's played an entire career under University of Louisiana head coach Rickey Bustle, and those 13 seniors will wrap up their regular-season home careers Saturday when the Ragin' Cajuns welcome Florida International.

The baker's dozen will be honored prior to the 6 p.m. kickoff at Cajun Field, but that group is less concerned about pregame ceremonies and more concerned about getting a landmark win. A victory Saturday would give the seniors their first five-win campaign, and keep alive hopes for a Sun Belt Conference title and a berth in a New Orleans Bowl that will be played at Cajun Field.

"We have so many great seniors that have been through a lot of tough times," said UL offensive coordinator Rob Christophel. "They've all worked hard as individuals to make our team better. I'm happy they're finally able to enjoy some success."

This year's senior group has gone 3-9, 4-8 and 4-7 in the last three seasons and take a 4-5 mark into Saturday's game.

The balanced group of six offensive players, six defenders and one kicker includes seven four-year lettermen - kicker Sean Comiskey, safety Terryl Fenton, center Greg Hodges, defensive end Eugene Kwarteng, running back Dwight Lindon, wide receiver Bill Sampy and deep snapper Justin Venable.

The rest of the senior group includes offensive guard Justin Ernest, safety Julian Harris, defensive tackles Mike Moore and Curtis Isaac, fullback Booker Jenkins and linebacker Tyler Norman.

Running back Chester Johnson, who suffered a separated shoulder in the season opener against Texas, is listed as a senior but has applied for an NCAA injury hardship waiver to play next season. Johnson played in 33 games over the past three seasons.

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Dan McDonald
dmcdonald@theadvertiser.com