HAMMOND - Southeastern Louisiana University head football coach Dennis Roland gets his first look at the 2006 squad in game situations on Saturday when the Lions hold the first of two scrimmages at Strawberry Stadium.

The scrimmage is scheduled for 6 p.m., and the public is invited to attend. The estimated 100-play scrimmage will feature the No. 1 offense facing the No. 2 defense with the No. 1 defense battling the No. 2 offense.

With competitive races at several key positions, including quarterback and wide receiver, Roland will look for the same focus and intensity that his team has given since opening camp earlier this month.

"This is our first chance to get a good look at our team, where we'll have to deal with the (25-second) play clock and officials," Roland, entering his second year as head coach, said. "We have a tight race for the starting quarterback job and some fierce competition at receiver."

The Lions held a brief workout on Friday, spending just over an hour working on special teams. After meetings in the afternoon, the Lions were part of an early evening Pep Rally during Hammond's "Hot August Night."

The Lions, picked to finish fifth in the Southland Conference, opens its season Aug. 31 at New Mexico State and former Southeastern head coach Hal Mumme before traveling to face Southern Miss on Sept. 9 and opening its home schedule Sept. 16 against Jacksonville (Fla.).

Southeastern will hold its final scrimmage of the season on Tuesday at 7 p.m., with "Fan Appreciation Night" scheduled from 5:30-6:30 in Strawberry Stadium. Members of the football team and coaching staff will be on hand for pictures and autographs and fans fans will be able to get posters and schedule cards.

Season tickets will also be available. To order by phone, contact the Southeastern Athletics ticket office at (985) 549-5466 or (866) LION-TIX.