Lake Charles, LA -- McNeese State announced Tuesday that this Saturday's game against Southern has been postponed due to the impact of Hurricane Katrina.

"Because of the great tragedy caused by Hurricane Katrina, officials at Southern University have decided that the football game between McNeese and Southern should not be played," said McNeese president Dr. Robert Hebert. "We at McNeese understand their feelings and concur with their decision as a gesture of respect for all of those affected by the tragic events brought on by the storm."

"We felt it was a necessary move due to the unfortunate tragedy that is occurring in New Orleans, and surrounding parishes," Southern chancellor and interim president Dr. Edward Jackson added. "We want to help and assist in any way possible to help the recovery effort for our state. We have a campus in New Orleans and all of our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families, as well as everyone in the state of Louisiana."

There has been no makeup date announced.