Ohio faces bowl newcomer ULM in Independence Bowl

SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) - It has taken Louisiana-Monroe 19 years to reach the postseason at college football's highest level.

Now third-year coach Todd Berry wants the Warhawks take advantage of the opportunity.

Louisiana-Monroe (8-4) will face Ohio (8-4) in the Independence Bowl on Friday in front of what's expected to be a partisan crowd for the Warhawks. The game will be played about 100 miles from Monroe, La., so Ohio can't expect much of a neutral environment.

The Bobcats are trying to win nine games for the third time in four seasons while Louisiana-Monroe is trying to end a dream season that began with a stunning overtime victory over Arkansas.

Ohio started the season on a seven-game winning streak, but has lost four of its last five games.