Texas vs Louisiana-Lafayette: Preview and Prediction
Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming Texas vs Louisiana-Lafayette game in our preview and prediction!
Game Info
Saturday, September 4, 2021; 3:30 pm; Darrell K Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium; Austin, TX
TV: FOX
Radio: Longhorn IMG Radio (Craig Way)
Spread: Texas (-8)
Fun Fact: This will be Steve Sarkisian’s first game as a head coach in six years.
Key Players
Louisiana-Lafayette
QB Levi Lewis
Levi may noy be the most-flashy player at quarterback, but he was able to get the job done for his team last season leading them to a 10-1 record in 2020. Last season, Lewis completed 177-297 passes (59.6-percent) for 2,274 yards and 19 touchdowns, with just seven interceptions, while also rushing for 335 yards and five touchdowns on 55 carries. If the Ragin’ Cajuns are to pull off the upset, Levi will have to play a big part in that.
LB Lorenzo McCaskill
He led the defense in tackles last season while picking up All-Sun Belt honors a year ago. Texas will feature a heavy rushing attack and Lorenzo will need to play a key part in helping slow the Texas run game down.
Texas
QB Hudson Card
While all the focus will be on running back Bijan Robinson, Hudson Card will get the start for the Longhorns. I know that ULL will be all in on stopping the run game but how will Hudson Card play in his first game as a starter? Will he step up to the challenge or be replaced by backup Casey Thompson?
LB DeMarvion Overshown
DeMarvion was second on the team in tackles in 2020 and looks to be one of the leaders of the Texas defense in 2021. ULL will try and do their best to control the game on the ground but the key for the Longhorns defense will be stopping the run.
Key Storylines
Louisiana-Lafayette loves to run the football and control the game. The key for the Texas defense will be stopping that run game and forcing Levi Lewis to beat them with his arm. If Texas can force the Ragin’ Cajuns to throw the football, that will work in their favor.
As for the offense, Texas will need to hit the ground quickly. ULL can play some defense but as cliché as it sounds, whoever can run the football in this game will likely come out on top. If Texas can use Bijan Robinson effectively, that will open up the passing game for starting quarterback Hudson Card.
Prediction: Texas 31, Louisiana-Lafayette 21
It may be closer than some people expect, but this Louisiana team is legitimate, while the Longhorns work in a new coach, new system and new quarterback. Texas will win comfortably, but it won’t be a route.
