Fall Camp 2025: Three Key Storylines for the Bulldogs
Louisiana Tech kicks off fall camp this Thursday, aiming to snap a five-year streak without a winning record.
With the season opener against Southeastern fast approaching on August 30th, the Bulldogs enter camp with several key questions still to be answered.
Let’s break down some of the biggest storylines to watch.
Tony Franklin’s Return Brings Hope for Tech’s Offense
There’s no sugarcoating it — Louisiana Tech struggled to find consistency on offense in 2024, averaging just 20.9 points per game. That mark was the program’s lowest since 2013, when the Bulldogs managed only 19.2 points per game.
To jumpstart the offense, Tech turned to a familiar face this offseason, bringing back veteran coordinator Tony Franklin. Returning for his second stint in Ruston, Franklin brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of offensive success.
His return has sparked optimism among Bulldog fans, and with his system back in place, there’s hope that a much-needed offensive breakout could be on the horizon.
Who Will Carry the Load? Bulldogs Seek Offensive Spark in Fall Camp
As mentioned earlier, Louisiana Tech averaged just 20.9 points per game in 2024 — a number they’ll be eager to improve in 2025. That task won’t be easy, especially with the departure of their top two offensive weapons, Tru Edwards and Jimmy Holiday.
Still, there’s a solid foundation in place. Running backs Omiri Wiggins and Amani Givens return to lead the ground game, while tight end Eli Finley is back and could very well be the top player at his position in Conference USA.
Beyond that trio, the Bulldogs are in search of new go-to playmakers — and fall camp will be critical in identifying who steps into those roles.
At receiver, Marlion Jackson and Jay Wilkerson have shown flashes in the past, while Sacramento State transfer Devin Gandy turned heads with a strong spring performance. Newcomers Tre Averhart and David Pierro are also intriguing names to watch.
In the backfield, Clay Thevenin brings a rare combination of size and speed, and Keiser University transfer Andrew Burnette adds depth and experience after a standout NAIA career.
There’s no shortage of potential at the skill positions — but for Tech’s offense to take a step forward, they’ll need a few of these names to separate themselves as true game-changers. Fall camp should provide the first real glimpse of who’s ready to rise.
Bulldogs Defense Looks to Reload Up Front
It’s no secret that Louisiana Tech’s defense was a major bright spot in 2024. The Bulldogs ranked 12th nationally in yards allowed per game — the unit anchored the team throughout the season.
As we turn the page to 2025, the defense looks poised to remain a strength under first-year defensive coordinator Luke Olson. But there’s no denying the challenge ahead, especially along the defensive line.
Tech lost its top six defensive linemen in terms of snaps played last season, leaving a big void to fill up front. Christian Davis, who logged 94 snaps in 2024, returns as the most experienced player in the unit. He’ll be joined by returners Zion Nason, Jacob Bradford, and Judd Rouyea — all of whom saw action last year.
To bolster the depth chart, the Bulldogs brought in several new faces this offseason, including Emmanuel Oguns, Jayden Madkins, Lane Condry, Caleb Sims, and Kaleb Coleman.
With run defense always a top priority, and so much production to replace, all eyes will be on who emerges in the trenches during fall camp.
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