Louisiana Tech vs. SMU Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
Gerald J. Ford Stadium
Dallas, TX
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
The SMU Mustangs exhibited their prowess with a commanding 38-14 victory over the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. The Mustangs wasted no time setting the tone early in the game. A remarkable 67-yard touchdown pass from Preston Stone to Jordan Hudson electrified the crowd, followed by a 16-yard interception return by Kori Roberson, pushing SMU's lead to double digits. Stone's precision was evident as he threw another touchdown pass to RJ Maryland late in the second quarter, coupled with a field goal from Collin Rogers, giving SMU a comfortable halftime lead.
The Bulldogs tried to claw back with an impressive 53-yard touchdown pass from Hank Bachmeier to Koby Duru early in the third quarter. However, SMU's defense remained resolute, amassing seven sacks, including crucial contributions from Elijah Roberts. Collin Rogers' fourth-quarter field goal and a clinching 1-yard rushing touchdown by LJ Johnson Jr. sealed the deal. Preston Stone's three touchdown passes marked an exceptional performance, while the Mustangs' defense had a standout day both in pass rush and coverage.
Key Plays:
Preston Stone (SMU Mustangs)
Preston Stone connected with Jordan Hudson for a stunning 67-yard touchdown pass, leveraging perfect timing and precise execution. This momentous play ignited SMU's offense and showcased the duo's explosive potential.
Kori Roberson (SMU Mustangs)
Kori Roberson's keen defensive instincts shone as he intercepted a pass from Hank Bachmeier and sprinted 16 yards for a touchdown. This play underscored SMU's defensive dominance and built on their early lead.
Collin Rogers (SMU Mustangs)
Collin Rogers' reliable 34-yard field goal extended SMU's lead, demonstrating clutch special teams execution. His precise kick contributed crucial points and kept momentum firmly with the Mustangs.
Preston Stone (SMU Mustangs)
Preston Stone finished a strong first half with a 25-yard touchdown pass to RJ Maryland. This precise strike before halftime further solidified SMU’s control over the game.
Hank Bachmeier (Louisiana Tech Bulldogs)
Hank Bachmeier breathed life into the Bulldogs' offense with a 53-yard touchdown pass to Koby Duru. This long strike cut into SMU's lead and demonstrated Louisiana Tech's big-play capability.
LJ Johnson Jr. (SMU Mustangs)
LJ Johnson Jr. capped off a dominant drive with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, securing the game for SMU. His physicality and determination on the ground were pivotal throughout the contest.
Elijah Roberts (SMU Mustangs)
Elijah Roberts' sack on a crucial 3rd down in the second quarter blunted any momentum Louisiana Tech tried to build, underlining SMU's defensive grit.
Standout Players:
Preston Stone (SMU Mustangs, QB)
Preston Stone was masterful, completing 23 of 37 passes for 248 yards and three touchdowns. He was instrumental in pacing the offense and maximizing yardage, showcasing his precision and leadership.
Jordan Hudson (SMU Mustangs, WR)
Jordan Hudson made a significant impact with his limited touches, catching two passes for 72 yards. His 67-yard touchdown reception displayed his explosive playmaking ability and chemistry with Stone.
Kori Roberson (SMU Mustangs, DT)
Kori Roberson anchored a relentless defense with his 16-yard interception return for a touchdown. His read of the quarterback and quick reaction solidified his role as a defensive stalwart.
LJ Johnson Jr. (SMU Mustangs, RB)
LJ Johnson Jr. was a workhorse, rushing 14 times for 128 yards. His ability to break a 67-yard run and score a touchdown highlighted his vision, speed, and physicality in SMU's ground game.
Elijah Roberts (SMU Mustangs, DE)
Elijah Roberts was a disruptive force, tallying two sacks and four solo tackles. His pressure on the quarterback was a key factor in SMU's dominant defensive performance, consistently breaking through the offensive line.
References:
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs. SMU Mustangs - Final Score - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
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Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs. SMU Mustangs Live Score and Stats - September 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
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Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs. SMU Mustangs Box Score and Stats - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
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SMU beats Louisiana Tech 38-14
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
0
0
7
7
14
SMU Mustangs
14
17
0
7
38
