Louisiana Tech vs. UTEP: A Tuesday Night Showdown in College Football
If you thought college football was reserved for Saturdays and the occasional Thursday night, think again! This Tuesday, October 22, fans will be treated to an exciting matchup as the UTEP Miners (1-6, 1-3 CUSA) travel to face the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (2-4, 1-2 CUSA). The Bulldogs enter the game as 7-point favorites, and both teams are looking to make a statement in Conference USA.
Current Odds and Betting Trends
As of now, Louisiana Tech is favored by 7 points, with a total set at 50 points. The betting landscape shows a split in ticket counts, with 50% of the spread tickets on each side. However, a significant majority of the money—84%—is backing the Bulldogs, indicating that larger bets are coming in for Louisiana Tech.
On the total points front, the over is attracting a whopping 91% of the money, despite only 42% of the tickets. This suggests that while many are betting on the over, the sharps believe the game may not reach the expected offensive output.
Kickoff is set for 8 PM ET at Joe Aillet Stadium in Ruston, Louisiana, with the game being broadcast on CBSSN.
UTEP’s Quarterback Conundrum
The Miners are in a precarious position with their quarterback situation. Cade McConnell, who was a game-time decision last week, is now likely out for the season due to an upper body injury. This leaves Skyler Locklear at the helm once again. Locklear struggled in his previous outing against FIU, throwing for just 162 yards and posting a dismal QBR of 17.7. With five interceptions against four touchdowns this season, he has yet to prove he can lead a successful offense.
UTEP’s ground game, which has been inconsistent, will need to step up to relieve some pressure off Locklear. However, they face a formidable challenge against a Louisiana Tech defense that leads Conference USA in yards allowed and ranks third in scoring defense. The Bulldogs have been particularly effective against the run, making it difficult for UTEP to establish a ground game.
Louisiana Tech’s Defensive Dominance
Louisiana Tech’s defense has been a bright spot this season. They are allowing the fewest rushing yards in Conference USA and have consistently stifled opposing offenses. With Locklear under center for UTEP, the Bulldogs will likely focus on forcing him to beat them through the air, a task he has yet to excel at. Locklear has never thrown for more than one touchdown in a game, and with a sack rate of 8% on his dropbacks, he could be in for a long night against a relentless Bulldogs pass rush.
UTEP’s Defensive Challenges
On the flip side, UTEP’s defense will need to step up significantly if they hope to keep the game competitive. The Miners have allowed over 6 yards per play and rank among the bottom in the conference for touchdowns surrendered. However, they do possess a strength in their pass rush, leading Conference USA in sacks. If they can pressure Louisiana Tech’s freshman quarterback Evan Bullock, they may have a chance to disrupt the Bulldogs’ offensive rhythm.
Bullock has shown flashes of brilliance, notably throwing for 290 yards and five touchdowns in a previous game against Middle Tennessee. However, he has also faced challenges, with Louisiana Tech’s offensive line allowing 19 sacks this season, including seven in the last two games. If UTEP can capitalize on this vulnerability, they may be able to turn the tide in their favor.
Offensive Matchup: UTEP vs. Louisiana Tech
When comparing the offensive capabilities of both teams, UTEP has struggled significantly this season. Averaging just 18 points per game, they rank as one of the lowest-scoring teams in Conference USA. With Locklear at quarterback, the Miners will find it difficult to put points on the board against a Bulldogs defense that excels at limiting yardage and scoring.
In contrast, Louisiana Tech has been more productive, averaging 25.5 points per game and generating 365.3 yards of offense. However, they too have faced challenges, particularly in their rushing attack, which averages only 3.2 yards per carry. This matchup presents an opportunity for the Bulldogs to exploit UTEP’s defensive weaknesses, especially in the run game, where the Miners have been vulnerable.
Final Thoughts on the Matchup
As the game approaches, the betting trends suggest a strong lean towards Louisiana Tech, both in terms of the spread and the total points. With UTEP’s quarterback situation in disarray and Louisiana Tech’s defensive prowess, the Bulldogs appear poised to take control of this matchup. However, as with any college football game, surprises can happen, and UTEP will be looking to build off their recent victory against FIU.
Fans and bettors alike will be eagerly watching this Tuesday night clash, hoping for an entertaining and competitive game under the lights.