As the college football season unfolds, fans are treated to thrilling matchups week after week. One of the most intriguing contests this week is between the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, scheduled for Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET. This Conference USA clash brings together two teams that are hungry for a win to bolster their position in the standings.
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, led by head coach Rick Stockstill, are known for their explosive offensive plays and resilience, while Louisiana Tech, under head coach Sonny Cumbie, has shown promise on both sides of the ball. This game will be a pivotal one for both teams as they look to build momentum in the middle of the season.
In this in-depth article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the upcoming game: how to watch it live, a comprehensive preview of both teams, key players to watch, betting odds, and a prediction on how the game will unfold. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting college football showdown.
How to Watch Middle Tennessee vs. Louisiana Tech: TV & Streaming Options
TV Broadcast
- CBS Sports Network: The Middle Tennessee vs. Louisiana Tech game will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network, which offers extensive coverage of college football games throughout the season. Fans who prefer traditional TV viewing can catch all the action on CBS Sports Network, where they’ll enjoy expert analysis and live commentary from experienced broadcasters.
Streaming Options
- FuboTV: For fans looking to stream the game live, FuboTV is an excellent option. FuboTV offers CBS Sports Network as part of its channel lineup, ensuring that you won’t miss any of the action. FuboTV also provides a free trial for new users, making it a cost-effective way to watch the game live without a long-term commitment. Additionally, FuboTV allows users to record the game and watch it later if they’re unable to catch it live.
- Hulu + Live TV: Another popular streaming option, Hulu + Live TV, includes CBS Sports Network in its package. Hulu + Live TV offers live sports along with a vast library of TV shows and movies, making it a versatile option for sports fans who want access to a wide range of content. With a free trial available for new users, Hulu + Live TV is a great way to catch this Thursday night showdown.
- Sling TV: Sling TV is another budget-friendly streaming option that offers CBS Sports Network in its package. Sling TV’s flexibility and affordable pricing make it a good choice for college football fans who want to watch live games without the need for a cable subscription.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV is another excellent choice for streaming the game live. It offers CBS Sports Network as part of its channel lineup and provides unlimited DVR storage, allowing you to record the game and watch it at your convenience.
Mobile and On-the-Go Options
- CBS Sports App: For fans who prefer to watch the game on their mobile devices, the CBS Sports App offers live streaming of CBS Sports Network broadcasts. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to watch the game from anywhere with an internet connection. You’ll need a valid TV provider login to access the live stream.
- Yahoo Sports App: The Yahoo Sports App is another great option for mobile users. It offers live streaming of select college football games, including Middle Tennessee vs. Louisiana Tech. This app is a free and convenient way to watch the game on the go.
Game Preview: Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
This Conference USA matchup between the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs has all the makings of an exciting and competitive game. Both teams are looking to make a statement as they navigate through the season, and a win here could be crucial for their aspirations in the conference standings.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Overview
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders have been a consistent presence in Conference USA under long-time head coach Rick Stockstill. Known for their fast-paced offense and big-play potential, the Blue Raiders are always a threat to score from anywhere on the field. However, inconsistency has been a challenge for them this season, and they’ll be looking to put together a complete performance against Louisiana Tech.
- Offense: The Blue Raiders’ offense is led by quarterback Nicholas Vattiato, who has shown flashes of brilliance this season. Vattiato’s ability to extend plays with his legs and his accuracy in the passing game make him a dual-threat quarterback that defenses must account for. His connection with wide receiver DJ England-Chisolm will be critical in this game, as England-Chisolm has emerged as the team’s top playmaker in the passing game.The running game for Middle Tennessee has been a bit inconsistent, but running back Frank Peasant has shown the ability to break off big runs when given the opportunity. Establishing a ground game will be key for the Blue Raiders, as it will help keep Louisiana Tech’s defense honest and open up opportunities for Vattiato in the passing game.
- Defense: Defensively, Middle Tennessee has been solid but not spectacular. The strength of their defense lies in their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Defensive end Jordan Ferguson is the leader of the unit, and his ability to disrupt the backfield will be crucial against Louisiana Tech’s offense. The Blue Raiders’ secondary, led by Decorian Patterson, will need to step up to contain the Bulldogs’ passing attack.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Overview
The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, under the leadership of head coach Sonny Cumbie, have shown promise this season with a balanced attack on both offense and defense. Cumbie, known for his offensive acumen, has instilled a dynamic system that can score points in bunches, but the Bulldogs have also had their share of struggles, particularly in close games.
- Offense: Louisiana Tech’s offense is led by quarterback Hank Bachmeier, a transfer from Boise State who has brought experience and poise to the Bulldogs’ offense. Bachmeier’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has been a key factor in Louisiana Tech’s offensive success. His favorite target has been wide receiver Smoke Harris, a dynamic playmaker who excels at making defenders miss in the open field.The Bulldogs’ ground game is led by running back Keith Willis Jr., who has been a consistent performer this season. Willis’s ability to pick up tough yards and break tackles has been a valuable asset for the Bulldogs, and they’ll look to establish him early in the game to set the tone.
- Defense: On the defensive side of the ball, Louisiana Tech has been solid, particularly in their ability to stop the run. Defensive tackle Keivie Rose anchors the defensive line, and his ability to clog up running lanes will be crucial in limiting Middle Tennessee’s rushing attack. Linebacker Trey Baldwin is the leader of the defense, and his sideline-to-sideline range makes him a key player to watch in this game.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Nicholas Vattiato vs. Louisiana Tech’s Secondary
One of the most intriguing matchups in this game will be how Middle Tennessee quarterback Nicholas Vattiato fares against Louisiana Tech’s secondary. Vattiato has been efficient this season, but he’ll be facing a Bulldogs defense that has been opportunistic when it comes to forcing turnovers.
Louisiana Tech’s secondary, led by cornerback Myles Brooks, has done a good job of limiting big plays in the passing game. If they can contain Vattiato and force him into making mistakes, it will give Louisiana Tech a significant advantage. On the other hand, if Vattiato can connect with his playmakers like DJ England-Chisolm, Middle Tennessee’s offense could find success through the air.
2. Hank Bachmeier vs. Middle Tennessee’s Pass Rush
On the flip side, Louisiana Tech quarterback Hank Bachmeier will have to navigate Middle Tennessee’s pass rush, which has been one of the strengths of their defense. Defensive end Jordan Ferguson has been a disruptive force off the edge, and his ability to get to the quarterback could make life difficult for Bachmeier.
Bachmeier’s quick release and decision-making will be key in this matchup. If he can get the ball out quickly and avoid pressure, Louisiana Tech’s offense should be able to move the ball effectively. However, if Middle Tennessee’s pass rush can get to him consistently, it could lead to sacks and turnovers that swing the momentum in the Blue Raiders’ favor.
3. Frank Peasant vs. Louisiana Tech’s Run Defense
Middle Tennessee running back Frank Peasant will be another key player to watch in this game. Peasant has shown the ability to break off big runs, but he’ll be facing a Louisiana Tech defense that has been stout against the run.
Defensive tackle Keivie Rose and linebacker Trey Baldwin will be tasked with containing Peasant and preventing him from getting into the second level. If Louisiana Tech can shut down the Blue Raiders’ running game, it will put more pressure on Vattiato to carry the offense through the air.
4. Smoke Harris vs. Middle Tennessee’s Secondary
Louisiana Tech wide receiver Smoke Harris is a game-changer with the ball in his hands, and how Middle Tennessee’s secondary defends him will be a critical factor in the outcome of the game. Harris has the ability to turn short passes into long gains, and the Blue Raiders’ defensive backs will need to tackle well in space to limit his impact.
Cornerback Decorian Patterson will likely draw the assignment of covering Harris, and his ability to stay with Harris in coverage will be crucial. If Harris can find space to operate, Louisiana Tech’s offense will be tough to stop.
Odds and Predictions
Betting Odds
- Point Spread: Louisiana Tech (-3.5)
- Over/Under: 55 points
Prediction
This game between Middle Tennessee and Louisiana Tech is expected to be a closely contested battle, with both teams having strengths that could lead them to victory. Middle Tennessee’s explosive offense, led by Vattiato, will be a challenge for Louisiana Tech’s defense, but the Bulldogs’ balanced attack and experience at quarterback with Bachmeier give them a slight edge.
Louisiana Tech’s ability to control the game on the ground with Keith Willis Jr. and keep Bachmeier protected will be key factors in their success. If they can limit turnovers and capitalize on their opportunities, they should be able to come out on top in this matchup.
Final Score Prediction: Louisiana Tech 31, Middle Tennessee 27
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs game on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET is shaping up to be an exciting Conference USA showdown. Both teams are looking to build momentum and secure a crucial win in the middle of the season. With talented players on both sides of the ball, this game promises to deliver plenty of action and drama.
Whether you’re watching on FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or any other streaming platform, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Expect a competitive and closely fought contest as both teams battle for Conference USA supremacy.
