Bulldogs Break Losing Streak, Aggies Struggle for Momentum
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Break Losing Streak; New Mexico State Aggies Struggle for Momentum
The excitement of Week 8 in Conference USA kicks off on Tuesday with a matchup between the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (2-3, 1-1 C-USA) and the New Mexico State Aggies (1-5, 0-3 C-USA). These teams faced off last season, with New Mexico State edging out Louisiana Tech in a thrilling 27-24 victory. This time around, Louisiana Tech comes into the game as 11.5-point favorites, following a commanding 48-21 win over Middle Tennessee last Thursday. In contrast, the Aggies are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 54-13 loss to Jacksonville State last Wednesday. Kickoff is set for 9:00 PM EST at Aggie Memorial Stadium in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs: Momentum on Their Side
The Bulldogs started their season with a narrow victory over FCS Nicholls but struggled through three consecutive losses, including a 20-10 defeat at the hands of NC State as 20.5-point underdogs. However, they finally got back on track last week against Middle Tennessee, where freshman quarterback Evan Bullock shone brightly, throwing for 290 yards and five touchdowns.
This season, Louisiana Tech has cycled through multiple quarterbacks. After an initial stint from Blake Baker, who struggled with interceptions, and Jack Turner, who battled accuracy issues, Bullock seems to have seized the starting position. Standing at 6’5″, Bullock boasts an impressive 6-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio, having completed over 70% of his passes in both of his starts.
On the receiving end, Tru Edwards, a senior wideout, has been a reliable target with 23 catches for 335 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, the backfield remains a committee effort, with three running backs each contributing between 105 and 110 rushing yards this season. Senior Donerio Davenport is the only back to find the end zone, doing so in the season opener.
The Bulldogs average 24.6 points per game while allowing 21.6 points, indicating a solid defensive effort led by senior linebacker Zach Zimos, who leads the team with 39 tackles. The defense has totaled 12 sacks, with Sifa Leota contributing 2.5.
New Mexico State Aggies: Searching for Answers
On the other hand, the New Mexico State Aggies have faced significant challenges this season, losing their last five games following an opening victory against Southeast Missouri State. After parting ways with head coach Jerry Kill, the Aggies have struggled under new leadership from Tony Sanchez, who previously served as the wide receivers coach.
Despite the struggles, the Aggies are still in search of a consistent quarterback. Both Parker Awad and Santina Marucci have seen time under center but have each struggled to find their rhythm, with completion rates below 45%. Awad leads the duo with 363 passing yards this season, while Marucci is noted for his running ability.
In the backfield, Seth McGowan, a transfer from Oklahoma, has been a standout, accumulating 392 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Aggies’ passing game is anchored by PJ Johnson III, who averages 17.3 yards per catch and has 156 receiving yards this season.
New Mexico State has struggled offensively, averaging only 18.5 points per game, which ranks them among the lowest in the nation. Defensively, they have also faced difficulties, allowing an average of 38.2 points per game. Linebacker Tyler Martinez leads the defense with 42 tackles, while Buddha Peleti heads the team in sacks with just 2.5.
Conclusion
As the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs aim to build on their recent victory, the New Mexico State Aggies are desperate for a turnaround to end their five-game losing streak. With both teams seeking improvements, fans can expect an exciting clash in this C-USA showdown. Will the Bulldogs maintain their momentum, or can the Aggies find their footing on their home turf?
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