Brandon Ocegueda / The Collegian
Breakdown: Bulldogs
The Fresno State Bulldogs, after getting sufficient rest time coming off a bye last week, return to action tomorrow to face Louisana Tech.
With an extra week off, the ‘Dogs are both physically and mentally prepared take on a tulmultuous November schedule, starting on the road in Rustin, La.
Players like quarterback Ryan Colburn and leading rusher Robbie Rouse will be relied on heavily down the stretch. Colburn has seen limited duty in the past few weeks due to big leads, but running back Robbie Rouse is gaining stride with back-to-back 100-yard performances. Defensively, Fresno State defensive end Chris Carter leads the country in sacks per game with 1.29.
In order for the ‘Dogs to beat Louisiana Tech this weekend, they must hold veteran quarterback Ross Jenkins and running back Lennon Creer in check.
Jenkins has 1,107 pas yards and Creer is fourth in the conference with 717 rush yards. By stopping both from having big games, the ‘Dogs will be able to keep the game close and not let Louisiana control the game clock.
Breakdown: Louisiana Tech
After suffering a 29-point loss to No. 4 Boise State last week, Louisiana Tech will look to avenge this blowout in its sixth home game this season.
Returning home, Louisiana Tech must regroup and refocus on trying to salvage an otherwise disappointing season in head coach Sonny Dykes’ first season.
Standing at 3-5, Dykes and his team will have to muster another offensive explosion when they host Fresno State.
Senior quarterback Ross Jenkins, who was the week-7 WAC Offensive Player of the Week, will look to repeat last year’s performance against Fresno State in which he threw for four touchdowns.
Junior running back Lennon Creer is having a career year with 717 rushing yards and six total touchdowns.
The wide receiver corps for Louisiana Tech will need to step up as no single receiver has caught more than 500 yards this season.
On defense Louisiana Tech needs to improve immensely. In every loss except for one, the Bulldogs have allowed at least 30 points or more.
Keys to Victory
1. Get Colburn back on track
A pair of weak opponents the past couple games forced Colburn into handoff duties with big leads. If this game stays close, as expected, Colburn could shred Louisiana Tech’s WAC-worst pass defense.
2. Convert third downs
Pat Hill has stressed in recent weeks the Bulldogs dire need to move the chains on third down. The ‘Dogs are 11-for-40 on conversions the past three games.
3. Bring the wood
Big hits quiet away crowds and set the tone for the entire team. A bone-crushing hit has been a rare occurance this season, but the likes of Lorne Bell and Travis Brown are scary sights for receivers coming across the middle.
Mike Howells/ The Collegian
Position match-ups
Player to watch: Ryan Colburn, Quarterback
When Fresno State runs: Advantage – Even
This is a crucial matchup. The ‘Dogs have improved a bit behind Robbie Rouse’s big numbers, but Louisiana Tech’s defense hasn’t allowed a team to rush for 200 yards in five weeks.
When Opponent runs: Advantage – Louisiana Tech
Tennessee transfer Lennon Creer is red hot as of late with three straight 100 yard games. The last time the ‘Dogs faced a decent running team, things didn’t go so well in Ole Miss.
When Fresno State passes: Advantage – Fresno State
Ryan Colburn is due for one of those big games he opened the season with. Louisiana Tech’s porous secondary and a healthy Bulldog receiving corps looks promising.
When Opponent passes: Advantage – Fresno State
Against a pass-happy Louisiana Tech offense, the Fresno State secondary has a chance for a big night. Fresno State’s pass rush gives the ‘Dogs the slim advantage.
Special teams: Advantage – Fresno State
The Fresno State return specialists are finally back in full force (except Wylie) and kicker Kevin Goessling has made eight straight field goals, including four in the last game.
12th meeting of the Battle of the Bone
Player to watch: Lennon Creer, Running Back
Wins against: Grambling State, Utah State, Idaho
Losses to: Texas A&M, Navy, Southern Miss, Hawaii, Boise State
Head coach: Sonny Dykes (first season, 3-5)
Associated Press File
Offense: Spread
Defense: 4-2-5
Key players: QB Ross Jenkins, RB Lennon Creer, DL Matt Broha
Series record: Fresno State leads 8-3
Last meeting: Fresno State won 30-28 in Fresno
Point Spread: Bulldogs favored by one point