In Lafayette, homecoming usually promises familiar faces and a game worth celebrating, but this one demanded something tougher from Louisiana Ragin Cajuns football.

Before kickoff, linebacker Conor McPherson was ruled out for the season with an upper-body injury, thinning a defense that had built early momentum.

A suggestion that Louisiana, Louisiana Tech and ULM move to the FCS added an unwelcome distraction to the week.

Forecasts threatened to disrupt the festivities, but the anticipated downpour largely stayed away from the stadium.

Then the injuries followed the Cajuns onto the field against Arkansas State.

Running back Darrell Smith exited after an early fumble, while safety Collin Jacob later appeared on the sideline with his arm in a sling.

Micah Johnson stepped in for McPherson and delivered a team-high 10 tackles, giving the battered defense a needed lift.

Arkansas State took a 20-17 lead in the fourth quarter, and a Ragin Cajuns homecoming comeback suddenly felt far from certain.

Quarterback Lunch Winfield and an expanded role for JJ Garner helped set up Tony Sterner’s tying field goal.

After a defensive three-and-out, Louisiana drove 72 yards in 12 plays, draining the clock and setting up Sterner again.

His 37-yard kick sealed the win, turning a week of setbacks into a gritty Sun Belt Conference football statement for Lafayette.