Louisiana Tech vs. Army: Predictions, latest odds for Independence Bowl

The college football bowl action continues with the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl featuring the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs facing off against the Army Black Knights.

Stepping in to replace Marshall after it pulled out due to outside factors, Louisiana Tech has shown remarkable resilience. Despite a tough season, finishing 5-7 and fifth in Conference USA, the Bulldogs have not backed down. They are led by freshman quarterback Evan Bullock, who boasted a 67.4% completion rate for 1,938 yards, 14 touchdowns, and only two interceptions. Bullock has a strong target in wide receiver Tru Edwards, who led CUSA in receptions (77) and recorded 897 receiving yards with six touchdowns.

Louisiana Tech is set to face a challenging opponent in Army, which recently made history by winning its first AAC championship game. This marks a significant milestone in the program’s 134-year history after an impressive 11-2 season. The Black Knights are guided by senior quarterback Bryson Daily, who is a formidable presence both on the ground and through the air. Last season, Daily passed for 942 yards and nine touchdowns, while also throwing four interceptions. Additionally, he rushed for an impressive 1,532 yards, scoring a remarkable 29 touchdowns.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Independence Bowl.

More: If college football coaches want transfer portal fix, how about ditching spring practice?

Independence Bowl predictions: Louisiana Tech vs. Army

USA TODAY Sports: Army is unanimous pick

• Scooby Axson: Army
• Jordan Mendoza: Army
• Paul Myerberg: Army
• Erick Smith: Army
• Eddie Timanus: Army
• Dan Wolken: Army

ESPN: Army 23, Louisiana Tech 16

Adam Rittenberg writes: “The Independence Bowl has a new participant and a different/more local flavor, as Marshall opted out following its coaching change and portal exodus, and Louisiana Tech stepped in as the replacement, and will make the short drive from Ruston to Shreveport. The Bulldogs have half the number of wins as the Thundering Herd, but their defense can be very stingy at times, and will need to perform against Bryson Daily and the Black Knights. Although Louisiana Tech coach Sonny Cumbie said, “The band’s back together,” the Bulldogs will be without several defensive linemen who went into the transfer portal. Army is undoubtedly still smarting from the Navy loss, and top running back Kanye Udoh entered the portal. Louisiana Tech jumps ahead early behind quarterback Evan Bullock, but Army eventually takes control and grinds out a low-scoring win, its 12th on the season.”

College Football Network: Army 35, Louisiana Tech 13

James Fragoza writes: “The Black Knights’ 2024 campaign has been one for the books, highlighted by their physical dominance and a well-executed option attack. While a 49-14 rout at the hands of playoff-bound Notre Dame and a 31-13 upset loss to Navy stand out as blemishes, they’re hardly disqualifying. Navy, after all, is a nine-win squad with an efficient offense – a far cry from what Louisiana Tech brings to the table. The Black Knights, even after failing to cover as double-digit favorites in their last two outings, still present a clear mismatch for a Bulldogs team that managed just one win over an FBS opponent with a winning record this year. For Louisiana Tech, this matchup feels less like an opportunity and more like a buzzsaw, especially due to its transfer portal losses.”

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Independence Bowl odds, lines: Louisiana Tech vs. Army

The Army Black Knights are favorites to defeat the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, according to the BetMGM college football odds.

Odds as of Friday, Dec. 27.

• Spread: Army (-14)
• Moneylines: Army (-800); Louisiana Tech (+500)
• Over/under: 44.5

How to watch Louisiana Tech vs. Army in the Independence Bowl

• Date: Saturday, Dec. 28
• Time: 9:15 p.m. ET
• TV: ESPN
• Stream: Fubo
• Where: Independence Stadium (Shreveport, Louisiana)

Stream Live: Catch College Bowl games with a Fubo subscription

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