Louisiana Tech Aiming to Reclaim 5-2 Series Lead Against Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders

Middle Tenn. St. Blue Raiders Analysis

The Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders have had a difficult season thus far, losing their third consecutive game to Jacksonville State. Despite having the edge in total offense, first downs, and time of possession, the Blue Raiders were outscored 38-7 in the second half of the game. MTS stands #40 in passing offense with an average of 271.3 yards per game. On the flip side, they are #104 in running offense, averaging 123.7 yards per game, and #115 in scoring offense with an average of 20.7 points per game. They also have a #112 ranking for their defensive efforts, allowing 33.3 points per contest. Nicholas Vattiato has completed 154 of 229 passes for 1,576 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. DJ Riles (four of five, 53 yards, 14 rush yards) and Kyle Lowe (one of one, -1 yard, two rush yards) have seen limited action. Jaiden Credle has 46 carries for 251 yards and 1 touchdown, while Frank Peasant has 48 carries for 171 yards and 2 touchdowns. Furthermore, Jekail Middlebrook has 18 carries for 85 yards and 2 touchdowns. Elijah Metcalf is the team's top receiver, hauling in 31 passes for 350 yards and 3 scores, followed by Holden Willis (23 catches, 309 yards, 1 touchdown), Jeremy Tate Jr. (10 catches, 137 yards, 1 touchdown), Justin Olson (26 receptions, 323 yards, 1 touchdown) and DJ England-Chisholm (12 catches, 103 yards). Zeke Rankin is 14 of 15 on extra points and 4 of 6 on field goal attempts with a long of 31. Overall, the Blue Raiders have a power ranking of 59 and record of 1-5 (1-5 ATS). Louisiana Tech is 1-2 (0-2-1 ATS) in their last 3 matchups against Middle Tennessee State.

Middle Tennessee Look to Avoid Fourth Consecutive Loss as Louisiana Tech Capitalizes on Blue Raiders' Weaknesses

Middle Tennessee had a promising first half, however their performance faltered in the second half against Jacksonville State. This season, the Blue Raiders have experienced issues with turnovers, bringing their net turnover differential to -6. Additionally, they have had trouble defending the pass, allowing more than 250 yards and 13 passing touchdowns per game. Louisiana Tech is likely to capitalize on these weaknesses, regardless of who is at the helm. Although the Blue Raiders are the home team, the Bulldogs appear to have the upper hand and may hand them their fourth consecutive loss.

Written by Jtpham Published on 10/08/2023 Category: NCAAF Picks

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