As week 5 of the NCAAF season continues, an exciting match-up between Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (1-2) and FIU Panthers (1-3) will take place. The event takes place on Saturday, the 28th of September, 2024 at 6:00 P.M. ET at South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium. ESPN+ will cover the match, and it’s going to be quite an entertaining match to watch as both the teams are looking to bounce back from their disappointing seasons. The best NCAAF tips and picks are up and running for bettors to place their bets on favorite teams.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs. FIU Panthers 09/28/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (1-2) vs. FIU Panthers (1-3)
Although the season for the Bulldogs has just begun, they look to have had a rough time, particularly in rushing and the receiving sections. Primarily, rushing has been left to player Donerio Davenport, who manages to post modest stats, 82 rushing yards from 25 attempts, meaning he averages 3.3 yards per carry. These may not be overly impressive stats, but he still performs an important task of keeping defenders honest and providing play-action setups. For air support, receiver Tru Edwards also assists with nine catches worth 169 yards, with a longest of 71 yards, highlighting his ability to be a big-play receiver. Indeed, fans that had a game like today’s one in mind had, in particular, the organizational structures of the game two breakouts of the bulldogs created through a high defensive loosening incorporating swift attacks. A similar game will take place between Tulsa vs North Texas today.
In contrast, the Panthers have been more consistent in their rushing attack. Kejon Owens is the best in this category, recording 5.6 yards per 31 attempts, accumulating 173 yards rushing and scoring 3 touchdowns. It is this steadiness in rushing which also serves as a bedrock pillar of their offensive philosophy In the receiving department, Eric Rivers has proven to be the most productive, going for a total of 256 yards on just 12 catches, which is an average of 21.3 yards per catch. The ability of Rivers to open up defenses and make big plays is critical and is in tune with the kind of game we are currently watching UL Monroe vs Troy, where any form of an aggressive receiver will help create opportunities to score.
Jack Turner QB vs. Keyone Jenkins QB
All eyes now are on the second-string quarterback of Louisiana Tech, Jack Turner, who has successfully managed to take 58 passes, attempting 392 yards, yielding two touchdowns and two interceptions with a pass completion rate of 51.7 percent. While a passer rating of 113 is not bad, there is room for improvement in Turner’s case, especially with regard to decision-making and reducing turnovers. So far, Turner has been sacked four times, raising concerns about the protection he will offer against the rampaging Panthers’ defense.
But in this aspect, FIU’s Keyone Jenkins has been far superior completing 64.9% of his passes for 896 yards in just four games. He has scored eight touchdowns, which suggests he has been good at using opportunities when they arise. Still that risk comes with four interceptions he has thrown, which also shows his chances for improvement. Jenkins’ 147.1 passer rating shows that he is capable of orchestrating the pace of the game through very accurate passing through storms, and also with the help of Rivers’s receivers after the catch. He will be under pressure to adjust to any complex defense of Louisiana Tech.
The Turner-Jenkins duel is going to be central to this game. The necessity for protection solutions on Turner’s part and Jenkins’ objective of ensuring a low turnover count will influence their one-on-one tussles. Since both of the quarterbacks will want to utilize their respective teammates, this game will probably be able to control the offensive tempo and tilt the odds for the team, which will be able to lower its mistakes and improve its chances.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs -2.5, Total Odds: 50
The odds have placed the Bulldogs as 2.5-point favorites, suggesting a close contest with Louisiana Tech slightly favored to win. The game’s over/under is set at 50, reflecting expectations of a balanced scoring output. Given both teams’ recent performances, especially the Bulldogs’ tendency to hit overs in four of their last six games and Panthers’ similar trends, bettors might consider the potential for a high-scoring affair exceeding the total odds should both offenses find their rhythm.
Louisiana Tech Betting Trends
Analyzing the betting trends, Louisiana Tech has struggled against the spread, recording a 2-7 ATS in their last nine matchups. Their past difficulties are further underscored by a dismal 1-8 SU record in recent games. However, they have dominated FIU with a 5-1 SU in their last six encounters, providing a psychological edge. Remarkably, their road performance has been poor, with a 1-19 SU record in their last 20 games on the road, indicating a significant challenge ahead.
FIU Betting Trends
The Panthers also present a mixed betting perspective, going 4-8 ATS in their recent dozen games. The tendency to have high-scoring contests is seen as they’ve exceeded the total in five of their last six games. Despite their overall 1-7 SU struggles recently, they have faced issues against conference opponents, being 1-8 SU, which might affect their confidence levels against Louisiana Tech.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs. FIU Panthers 09/28/24 Betting Picks
In this matchup, the Bulldogs’ previous success against FIU suggests a continuation of that trend, provided they address their offensive consistency and reduce defensive lapses. On the other hand, FIU’s improved passing game under Jenkins may pose challenges if Louisiana Tech’s secondary cannot limit big plays.
Considering the existing trends and insights provided by top exclusive handicappers, FIU’s offensive prowess suggests looking favorably at the total exceeding 50 points, particularly if Jenkins maintains his current form. Moreover, Turner’s struggles might lead to advantageous in-play betting opportunities favoring FIU if the Panthers can lead early.