UTEP Seek Redemption Against Louisiana Tech, A Tale of Struggles and Strengths
UTEP Miners Aim to Overcome Struggles Against Resilient Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
As the UTEP Miners (1-6, 1-3 C-USA) prepare to visit Joe Aillet Stadium in Ruston, Louisiana, for a Tuesday night showdown against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (2-4, 1-2 C-USA), both teams are looking to redefine their seasons. The Miners recently snagged their first victory of the year, defeating FIU 30-21, while the Bulldogs are licking their wounds after a tough double-overtime loss to New Mexico State, 33-30. Fortunately for both teams, there are no significant injuries reported heading into this matchup.
UTEP Miners: Struggling to Find Their Footing
The UTEP Miners have faced considerable challenges this season, averaging a mere 18.0 points and 330.3 total yards of offense per game, ranking them 123rd and 111th in the nation, respectively. Their offensive struggles are evident in both the rushing game and passing game, with averages of 114.4 rushing yards (113th) and 215.9 passing yards (81st) per game.
The Miners have cycled through three quarterbacks this season, with Skyler Locklear leading the charge. Locklear has accumulated 953 passing yards with 4 touchdowns against 5 interceptions, showcasing both promise and inconsistency. The rushing attack is spearheaded by Jevon Jackson, who has amassed 387 rushing yards, while Kenny Odom stands out as the leading receiver with 23 receptions for 530 yards and 4 touchdown catches.
Defensively, UTEP has struggled significantly, allowing an alarming 32.6 points and 419.9 yards per game, ranking 117th and 115th nationally. The team surrenders an average of 212.9 rushing yards (124th) and 207.0 passing yards (54th) each contest. Dorian Hopkins leads the defense with 56 tackles, while defensive linemen KD Johnson and Maurice Westmoreland each contribute with 2.5 sacks. In the secondary, Lantz Russell is the standout performer, with 2 interceptions.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs: Defensive Resilience Amid Offensive Inconsistencies
In contrast to UTEP, the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs have found more stability on defense, even as they struggle on offense. The Bulldogs average 25.5 points and 364.8 total yards per game, ranking 90th and 89th respectively. Their ground game averages only 109.0 rushing yards (117th) while their passing attack is slightly more productive, yielding 255.8 yards per game (89th).
Evan Bullock, Louisiana Tech’s primary quarterback, has thrown for 790 yards and 8 touchdowns without an interception, demonstrating commendable efficiency. The Bulldogs have also utilized Jack Turner and Blake Baker at quarterback, adding depth to the position. Omiri Wiggins leads the rushing attack with 171 yards and a touchdown, while Tru Edwards is the top receiver, boasting 32 catches for 445 yards and 4 touchdown receptions.
On the defensive side, Louisiana Tech has been effective, conceding an average of 23.5 points (66th) and only 316.3 yards (28th) per game. They allow just 104.2 rushing yards (24th) and 212.2 passing yards (63rd) per game, showcasing their ability to contain opponents. Zach Zimos leads the Bulldogs in tackles with 42, while Sifa Leota contributes with 2.5 sacks. The defense has also generated turnovers, with two players each recording an interception.
Conclusion
As the UTEP Miners look to build on their recent success, they face a challenging opponent in the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, who bring a solid defensive unit to the field. This matchup presents an opportunity for both teams to address their weaknesses and build momentum.
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