Louisiana Tech desperately needs more stops
Louisiana Tech’s defense has allowed 400-plus yards in three straight contests. Will the Bulldogs be able to shore up things when Western Kentucky roars into town?
The two squads meet tonight, with an 8 p.m. ET kickoff at Joe Aillet Stadium. According to oddsmakers at online sports book BetDSI, the Hilltoppers are 3-point favorites over Skip Holtz’s troops. The over/under is 68.5.
Two weeks ago, Middle Tennessee State handed the Bulldogs (2-3) their first loss in Conference USA play. Yet virtually every opponent that sets foot in Ruston proceeds to shred Holtz’s bunch through the air. Frankly, we’re almost scared to consider what WKU’s 16th-ranked passing offense could accomplish. South Florida transfer Mike White has thrown for 1,367 yards, nine touchdowns and three picks in his first five starts. Taywan Taylor and Nicholas Norris have also combined for 59 receptions and seven scores.
Fortunately, Tech boasts its own vertical threats. Top dog Trent Taylor finally regains his sidekick, Carlos Henderson, here. Despite missing substantial time due to an ankle injury, the New Orleans native’s averaging 14.2 yards per catch. Tailback Jarred Craft should get plenty of touches, too, in an attempt to keep White & Co off the field.
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At the end of the day, though, a Western Kentucky (3-2) eruption seems inevitable. Just think back to the 2015 matchup, when Jeff Brohm’s program lit up the Bulldogs for 585 yards. Such a figure appears entirely doable again.
THURSDAY NCAA FREE PICK: WESTERN KENTUCKY -3