LSU has taken a slow return to competitive rugby but faces a stiff test this coming weekend.

After a rough fall of 2014 when the program was suspended for an infraction at a post-match social, the Tigers are back on the field in good standing, and looking ahead to the Red River Conference season.

LSU has moved from the SCRC to the Red River in part because it is marginally geographically better, and because the players and coaches prefer to play the meat of their season in the spring.

“We have had some good games this fall,” said LSU Coach Bob Causey. “We’ve worked the guys into pretty good shape. This game against Arkansas is going to be our test.”

The Tigers have a solid forward pack that includes captain and loosehead prop Christian Brower, Todd Dupre, and Brennan Falcon, while flyhalf Camron Troxler is coming into his own as a flyhalf.

“He is learning how to play the game and what he can do with his talent,” said Causey.

As for Arkansas, the defending Heart of America conference champion Razorbacks are looking to launch their defense of their title.

“It will be a good contest, hopefully,” said Arkansas Coach Warren Fyfe. “We look strong in spite of losing a lot of seniors last year.”

That Arkansas forward pack was hurt especially by graduation, but, Fyfe added, most of the players returning for another season had some experience with the 1st team.

“Our senior leadership is strong and we’ve got a solid group of incoming freshman that are doing well to fill in the gaps,” said Fyfe. “Our sophomore and freshman group is excellent so am confident we will be competitive over the next couple of years.”

Arkansas is coming off a 26-5 win over Iowa State and after LSU will take on Kansas. The Jayhawks sit 3-0 in the Heart of America, and could well be the Razorbacks’ top contender for the conference title.

“It will be interesting to see how we are coming along,” said Fyfe.

As for LSU, this will be their last game of the fall before it gets serious in the New Year. It's a sort of final exam.