Louisiana Tech knocked off Western Kentucky 23-22 with a last minute field goal by Jonathan Barnes. The Bulldogs' big win sets the table for even bigger things going forward.
Huge Win
Louisiana Tech had never won in Bowling Green, so beating Western Kentucky was a milestone win for sure. Also, WKU has been dominant at home. Since an early season 42-39 loss to UAB in 2014, the Hilltoppers only other setback at home had been a 31-30 overtime loss to Vanderbilt in 2016.
Home Field Advantage
With five home games remaining, Louisiana Tech has a favorable schedule. Winning at Western Kentucky was big enough by itself, but it sets the Bulldogs up to have a great season.
Louisiana Tech has as pretty good home field advantage according to ESPN: http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/20519639/alabama-ohio-state-oklahoma-boast-best-home-records-college-football-do-own-home-field-advantage-too
Massey has LATech favored in every game this season after South Carolina: https://www.masseyratings.com/team.php?t=4218&s=295489
Bonnette on the Fast Track
Rhashid Bonnette is averaging 37 yards per catch. The deep threat is making good on his potential and is stretching the field for the rest of the offense. Teddy Veal moving inside will give young players like Bonnette and Adrian Hardy more chances to show what they can do.
Running Strong
All four Louisiana Tech running backs, Jarred Craft, Boston Scott, Jaqwis Dancy, and Isreal Tucker, average over 5.0 yards per carry. The Bulldogs' stable of running backs will prove valuable in the middle of Tech's schedule as the conference battles get going.
The Man in the Middle
Brandon Durman has come on strong at middle linebacker, leading the team with 21 tackles on the season. Durman has two tackles for loss, including one sack.
Around Conference USA
CUSA teams have several showdowns against other G5 schools. UTSA is off to a hot start after beating Baylor. The Roadrunners travel up the road to take on Texas State. CUSA has three matchups with MAC teams as FAU goes to Buffalo, MTSU hosts Bowling Green, and WKU hosts Ball State. UTEP has a showdown with rival New Mexico State. In CUSA action, UNT looks to prove they belong in the discussion of top CUSA teams as they host UAB. North Texas had a good showing at Iowa, and they need to win against UAB with tougher games upcoming.
How the West was Won
Louisiana Tech hosts USM, UNT, and UTSA this year. All three teams are improved and looking to take the crown away from LA Tech. We have some big upcoming matchups to look at that will sort the picture out a little:
Sept. 30th: UNT @ USM
Oct. 7th: USM @UTSA
Oct. 14th: UTSA @UNT
So before USM comes to Ruston on 10/21 - we will have a better picture of who all of these teams really are. UNT and UTSA come to Ruston in November.
From College Football News: LA Tech could have a special season if they knock off the Gamecocks. http://collegefootballnews.com/2017/09/south-carolina-louisiana-tech-prediction-game-preview
