Monday Morning Hype: Louisiana Tech vs Southeastern

Louisiana Tech kicks off its 2025 season at home with a matchup against Southeastern Louisiana. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. at Joe Aillet Stadium. Fans can catch the radio broadcast on KXKZ 107.5 FM or stream the game live on ESPN+.

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Louisiana Tech kicks off its 2025 season at home with a matchup against Southeastern Louisiana.

Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. at Joe Aillet Stadium. Fans can catch the radio broadcast on KXKZ 107.5 FM or stream the game live on ESPN+.

Matchup at a Glance

Louisiana Tech enters the 2025 season looking to rebound from a challenging 2024 campaign that ended with a 5-8 record — the program’s fourth straight losing season.

The Bulldogs will lean on several key returners, including running back Omiri Wiggins (527 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns), dependable left tackle Hayden Christman (11 starts), standout linebacker Kolbe Fields (71 tackles, 9.5 TFL), and safety Jacob Fields (54 tackles, 5.5 TFL).

Southeastern Louisiana, on the other hand, wrapped up 2024 with a solid 7-5 record, closing strong by winning six of their final seven games.

The Lions bring back a core group of contributors, highlighted by running back Rodeo Graham (203 rushing yards, 3 TDs), wide receiver Jaylon Domingeaux (459 receiving yards, 1 TD), linebacker KK Reno (team-high 94 tackles, 1 interception), and defensive lineman Kaleb Proctor (49 tackles, 4.5 sacks).

Week One X-Factors: Two Questions That Matter

Can Kukuk make an instant impact in his first start for the Bulldogs?

Trey Kukuk arrived at Louisiana Tech as part of the 2025 signing class, coming by way of Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, California. After a strong showing in both spring practices and fall camp, the 6’1″, 201-pound signal-caller has earned the starting quarterback job and is set to make his Tech debut Saturday night.

A true dual-threat, Kukuk adds a dynamic element to Tony Franklin’s newly installed offensive system, giving the Bulldogs versatility and unpredictability at the quarterback position.

With veteran running back Omiri Wiggins and a deep stable of backs alongside him, Kukuk should have the support he needs to settle in quickly as he adjusts to the speed and physicality of the FBS level in the opener against Southeastern.

How will Olson’s defensive vision translate on the field in his first game?

There’s no denying Louisiana Tech’s defensive strength in 2024 — the Bulldogs allowed just 21 points per game, ranking 26th nationally in scoring defense.

In 2025, the unit enters a new chapter under defensive coordinator Luke Olson, who takes over for Jeremiah Johnson following his departure to Coastal Carolina. While the scheme will maintain its base 3-3-5 alignment, the personnel will have a slightly different look.

Tech will feature three new starters along the defensive front, but the back seven returns several key contributors — a promising sign for continuity and experience on the back end.

Olson brings an aggressive philosophy from Jacksonville State, where his defenses were known for consistently creating turnovers. Whether that playmaking mentality carries over to Ruston will be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch early in the season.

What’s Dropping This Week on BleedTechBlue (Week of Aug. 25)

Monday

  • Monday Morning Hype – Kick off your week with energy!

Tuesday

  • Stat Attack
  • Press Conference News & Notes
  • Depth Chart Look-In
  • BTB Radio – Tune in for analysis, updates & special guests!

Wednesday

  • Scout the Opposing Quarterback – Know the enemy.
  • BC joins SportsTalk 97.7 FM for his weekly radio hit — catch him at 7:30 AM!

Thursday

  • Statistical Comparison
  • Score Predictions
  • Inside Tech Footballon SportsTalk 97.7 FM at 6 PM

Friday

  • Three Keys to Victory
  • Friday Final Word – Wrapping it all up before kickoff.

Saturday – Game Day!

  • Game Day Central
  • Game Thread – Live updates & fan chatter.
  • BleedTechBlue Postgame Call-in Show
    Presented by Impact Healthcare Solutions on KXKZ 107.5 FM

Sunday

  • Snap Count Totals
  • Player Grades – How’d the Dawgs perform?

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Category: General Sports