For the first time in program history, Incarnate Word defeated a ranked opponent on Saturday, a 45-17 win over No. 8 McNeese at Benson Stadium in San Antonio, Texas.

With the victory UIW moves into a three-way tie for first place in the Southland Conference, alongside McNeese and Central Arkansas.

The Cardinals wasted little time getting on the board in this one.

FB: Opening drive for @mcneesefootball ends with @UIWfootball INT by Phillips.

Cardinals take over at midfield. Scoreless, 13:45 1st.

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After Malick Phillips picked off a pass on just the second play of the game, the UIW offense marched 50 yards in six plays to grab an early 7-0 lead. Philip Baptiste capped the drive with a 20-yard touchdown catch, delivered by Jon Copeland.

Copland tossed for 236 yards and three touchdowns.

Incarnate Word dominated the first half in its entirety, taking a 28-3 lead into the locker room after Copeland scored on a four-yard run to cap the first half scoring with 2:01 to play in the second quarter.

The second half was more of the same. McNeese scored first—but UIW score plenty.

FB: Baptiste 15-yard TD reception. Now 38-10 @UIWFootball over @NCAA_FCS 6th ranked @McNeeseFootball. 1:50 to go in 3rd.

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Baptiste caught his second touchdown of the game with 1:50 to play in the third quarter to push the lead to 28 points at 38-10.

The teams traded scores in the fourth quarter, as the Cardinals’ advantage was never in jeopardy.