Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 23, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling overtime battle, Western Kentucky edged past Louisiana Tech with a final score of 28-27. The victory marked the seventh consecutive season in which Western Kentucky has secured bowl eligibility. Both teams fought hard throughout the game, with key performances from quarterbacks Rodney Tisdale Jr. and Blake Baker. The match was defined by defensive plays, including missed field goals, leading to a dramatic overtime finish and a strong push for postseason play for the Hilltoppers.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – In a thrilling overtime finish, Western Kentucky clinched a narrow victory against Louisiana Tech with a score of 28-27 on Tuesday night. This win secured Western Kentucky’s bowl eligibility for the seventh consecutive season, adding to their successful run in collegiate football.
The match saw some high stakes with both teams displaying tenacity. With the victory, Western Kentucky improved its record to 6-2 overall, including 4-1 in Conference USA. The game culminated in overtime after both teams had blocked field goals in the last two minutes of regulation, leading to a tie at 20-all.
In overtime, Louisiana Tech took the initiative, scoring first with a short run by Andrew Burnette, granting them their first lead of the game. However, Western Kentucky swiftly responded with a touchdown run by George Hart III on their second possession of overtime. Following the touchdown, quarterback Rodney Tisdale Jr. executed a game-winning 2-point conversion by connecting with Moussa Barry, sealing the victory for the Hilltoppers.
Rodney Tisdale Jr., who started for the first time in this game, showcased his skills under pressure. His performance included completing key passes on critical downs, specifically a fourth-and-10 and a third-and-7 during the decisive drive. Overall, Tisdale finished with 21 completions on 34 attempts, accumulating 227 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also contributed significantly on the ground with 73 rushing yards on 12 carries.
On the other side, Louisiana Tech’s quarterback Blake Baker displayed solid performance as well, completing 31 of 45 passes for 340 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. Notably, the first half ended with Louisiana Tech mishandling a 23-yard field goal attempt, which played a significant role in ensuring a 20-7 halftime lead for Western Kentucky.
The second half saw Louisiana Tech come out strong with a trick play that paid off. Clay Thevenin threw back to Devin Gandy, who sprinted 85 yards for a touchdown, significantly narrowing the score to 20-14, energizing the Louisiana Tech sideline.
The exciting finish is emblematic of the competitive spirit both teams exhibited throughout the evening. With the season nearing its conclusion, Western Kentucky looks forward to maintaining its winning momentum as they strive for postseason play.
Key Game Statistics
- Score: Western Kentucky 28, Louisiana Tech 27
- Overtime: Yes
- Western Kentucky Record: 6-2, 4-1 in Conference USA
- Louisiana Tech Record: Not specified in the provided data
- Western Kentucky Scorers: George Hart III (1 TD), Moussa Barry (2-point conversion), Rodney Tisdale Jr. (1 TD, plus 73 rushing yards)
- Louisiana Tech Scorers: Andrew Burnette (1 TD), Devin Gandy (1 TD)
- Field Goals: Jack Cassidy (53 yards), John Cannon (47 yards)
Background Context
Western Kentucky’s consistent performance over the years has resulted in their qualification for bowl games consecutively for seven seasons, a testament to the program’s resilience and competitive nature within college football. Their latest game against Louisiana Tech further solidifies their presence in the competitive landscape of collegiate sports, particularly in the Conference USA.
FAQ
What was the final score of the game between Western Kentucky and Louisiana Tech?
Western Kentucky defeated Louisiana Tech 28-27 on Tuesday night.
What did the win mean for Western Kentucky?
With the win, Western Kentucky became bowl eligible for the seventh straight season.
What was Rodney Tisdale Jr.’s performance like in the game?
Tisdale finished the game with 21 completions on 34 attempts for 227 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, along with 73 rushing yards on 12 carries.
How did the teams perform in the first half of the game?
Jack Cassidy made a 53-yard field goal, and John Cannon added a 47-yarder, helping Western Kentucky to a 20-7 halftime lead.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Western Kentucky 28, Louisiana Tech 27 |
| Overtime | Yes |
| Western Kentucky Record | 6-2 overall, 4-1 in Conference USA |
| Leading Performers (WKU) | Rodney Tisdale Jr. (227 passing yards, 1 TD), George Hart III (1 TD) |
| Leading Performers (LT) | Blake Baker (340 passing yards, 1 TD) |
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: Western Kentucky vs. Louisiana Tech Recap
- CBS Sports: Western Kentucky vs. Louisiana Tech Prediction
- USA Today: Western Kentucky at Louisiana Tech Odds & Predictions
- College Football News: WKU vs. Louisiana Tech Prediction
- Action Network: WKU vs. Louisiana Tech Prediction
- Wikipedia: College Football
- Google Search: Western Kentucky football
- Google Scholar: Western Kentucky vs Louisiana Tech game
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Google News: Western Kentucky vs Louisiana Tech
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