The upcoming matchup between SMU and Louisiana Tech is generating a lot of excitement among college football fans. As the Mustangs prepare to take on the Bulldogs, many are wondering what strategies SMU can employ to secure a victory. In this article, we'll explore four potential ways SMU can beat Louisiana Tech, along with some key statistics and insights to support our predictions.
Understanding the Opponents
Before we dive into our predictions, let's take a brief look at the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. SMU, led by head coach Sonny Dykes, has been impressive on offense, averaging over 40 points per game. The Mustangs' high-powered offense is led by quarterback Shane Buechele, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns this season.
On the other hand, Louisiana Tech has struggled on defense, allowing an average of 34 points per game. However, the Bulldogs have a strong rushing attack, led by running back Justin Henderson, who has rushed for over 700 yards and 5 touchdowns this season.
Prediction 1: SMU's High-Powered Offense Will Dominate
One way SMU can beat Louisiana Tech is by leveraging their high-powered offense. The Mustangs have the 10th-ranked offense in the country, averaging over 510 yards per game. With Shane Buechele at the helm, SMU's offense has been nearly unstoppable, scoring 40 or more points in five of their last six games.
To counter this, Louisiana Tech will need to find a way to slow down SMU's offense. However, given the Bulldogs' struggles on defense, it's likely that SMU will be able to move the ball effectively and score plenty of points.
Prediction 2: SMU's Defense Will Contain Louisiana Tech's Rushing Attack
Another way SMU can beat Louisiana Tech is by containing the Bulldogs' rushing attack. Louisiana Tech has struggled to move the ball through the air, but they have found success on the ground, averaging over 200 rushing yards per game.
However, SMU's defense has been stout against the run, allowing an average of just 120 rushing yards per game. If the Mustangs can contain Justin Henderson and the Bulldogs' rushing attack, it will force Louisiana Tech to rely on their struggling passing game, which could lead to turnovers and mistakes.
Prediction 3: SMU's Special Teams Will Make a Difference
Special teams can often be the difference-maker in college football games. SMU has a strong special teams unit, led by kicker Chris Naggar, who has made 10 of 12 field goal attempts this season.
If SMU can win the field position battle and make some big plays on special teams, it could give them a significant advantage over Louisiana Tech.
Prediction 4: SMU's Coaching Staff Will Outmaneuver Louisiana Tech
Finally, SMU's coaching staff, led by Sonny Dykes, has been impressive this season. Dykes has a reputation for being one of the top coaches in the country, and his team's performance on the field has reflected that.
If SMU's coaching staff can outmaneuver Louisiana Tech's staff, making adjustments on the fly and exploiting the Bulldogs' weaknesses, it could give the Mustangs a significant advantage.
Gallery of SMU Football
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the favorite to win the SMU vs Louisiana Tech game?
+SMU is currently the favorite to win the game, with a point spread of around 10 points.
What is the strength of SMU's offense?
+SMU's offense is led by quarterback Shane Buechele, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns this season.
What is the weakness of Louisiana Tech's defense?
+Louisiana Tech's defense has struggled to contain high-powered offenses, allowing an average of 34 points per game.
We hope this article has provided some valuable insights into the upcoming matchup between SMU and Louisiana Tech. While there are many factors that can influence the outcome of a football game, we believe that SMU's high-powered offense, stout defense, special teams, and coaching staff give them a strong chance of beating the Bulldogs.