Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
2000 overall record: 3-9
Conference record: n/a
Returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 8
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: John Simon* (565 yds)
Passing: Luke McCown* (2,544 yds)
Receiving: James Jordan (1,003 yds)
Tackles: Bobby Gray* (119)
Sacks: Brandon Avance* and Brian Bradford (3 each)
Interceptions: Jason Olford* (4)
What's new
The Bulldogs are playing in a conference for first time since 1995, when they were a member of the Big West. They have always been a road-warrior program but will now get more games at home because of the conference schedule. This doesn't mean they will back down from the big boys, though. Tech will play Oklahoma State, Kansas State and Auburn this season.
Battling it out
Two of the top four receivers last season were seniors, which opens a couple of spots for competition in the four-receiver set. As many as six guys are battling for those positions. D.J. Curry, Allen Stark and Damien Newton all had a good spring. Junior college transfer Ahmad Harris is another player with the ability to put up big numbers.
Eye catcher: RB Joe Smith
Smith sat out last season as a transfer and didn't really get to show what he could do until this spring. He had many solid workouts, culminating with a 12-carry, 68-yard performance with one TD in the spring game. He is much more of a power runner than the typical back at Tech. Last year's leading rusher, John Simon, is a smaller back who was also the team's second-leading receiver. Lining him up in the slot should allow plenty of opportunities for Smith at running back if he continues to progress.
Budding star: QB Luke McCown
Despite not playing the first four-and-a-half games, the true freshman threw for more than 2,500 yards and showed incredible leadership ability for such a young player. He set four Division I-A single-game freshman passing records and has athleticism to scramble, as well. McCown has already proven himself against top-notch competition, throwing for a combined 851 yards vs. Miami and Auburn.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
