New Experience Awaits in NO - From the Bird's Nest

The news of the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns heading back to the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl wasn't a big surprise. We even reported early in game week before the ULM game.

And, the notice of the opponent wasn't really a surprise, either.

But it might be the best NO Bowl matchup, ever, as far as the fans are concerned.

The Cajuns' last four appearances in New Orleans were very well attended by the Cajuns' faithful. But, with exception of hometown Tulane in 2013, the Cajuns "carried" the attendance.

You didn't see a whole lot of fans from Nevada, San Diego State or even East Carolina. Tulane, obviously, had a crowd in the 'Dome, but that was the only time you saw their fans.

This time it will be different.

And, as a result, Cajun fans will be treated to something they've not seen in their previous trips to the Crescent City.

The true bowl experience.

Part of the entire bowl happening is the interaction and fellowship between the fans of the two schools. And, for the first time, Cajun fans will see it in New Orleans.

The fact it's Southern Miss is kind of an added bonus. The schools and fans have a history in football and a more recent history in baseball. That will add to the experience.

Thursday and Friday night on Bourbon Street you'll see plenty of red and white interacting with black and gold. "Geaux Cajuns" will be answered with "To the Top." And, it will all be done with good nature. The "Second Line" parade in the French Quarter Thursday night will be the best yet.

There are, I'm sure, some Cajun fans that have a "been there, done that" attitude over the fifth trip to the NO Bowl in six years. But, Cajun fans will also remember last year when Louisiana didn't qualify for a bowl and there was an emptiness. Those are ready to go through it again.

And, this time, they get to do it with a group of new friends.