After an important victory against the Charlotte 49ers (1-4, 0-1 C- USA), the UTEP Miners (3-3, 1-1 C-USA) continue to build momentum after a tough start to the season.  

Now entering another game against the LA Tech Bulldogs (1-3, 0-0 C-USA), who are coming off a major loss to the University of Southern Alabama, UTEP will have some tough competition ahead as the Bulldogs will be looking to redeem themselves and turn their season around. 

The LA Tech Bulldogs are coming into this game suffering a harsh loss to the University of Southern Alabama in last weekend’s game with a score of 38-14. The Bulldogs have been struggling to find a good rhythm this season with only one win under their belt and averaging 14 points per game (PPG) versus allowing a whopping 21 PPG. 

These stats lean towards a UTEP victory due to the Miners averaging 17 PPG, outscoring Charlotte last weekend in a 41-35 victory and out doing LA Tech’s PPG by 3. 

The UTEP Miners continue to improve on the offensive side of the ball as they have been sticking to the run game. In leading the team down field and being more conservative with their pass game, the Miners are averaging 263 rushing yards versus 173 yards passing and a 14 first down rushing average vs 6 first down passing average.  

“That’s something we should be doing more of,” said Head Coach Dana Dime when referring to the run game. 

This shows how much the Miners and their coaching staff are committed to the running game. 

The UTEP defensive side of the ball is going into this next game after they allowed 35 total points against Charlotte. Many errors occurred as they allowed 27 first downs, 347 passing yards and 100 rushing yards.

All this does not come with completely bad news as the Miners defense, despite the numbers, UTEP continues to have a healthy starting 11 going into game seven. 

The Miners will travel to face the Bulldogs at 5 p.m. Oct. 8 at Joe Aillet Stadium. 

The game will be streamed on ESPN+. The game can also be listened to on 600 ESPN El Paso with “The Voice of the Miners” Jon Teicher calling play-by-play in his 42nd season. “Teich” is joined by former UTEP WR Cole Freytag. 

Stats and quotes provided with the help of UTEP Athletics. 

Roman P. Carr is a contributor and may be reached at [email protected]; @23rd.era on Instagram.