BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Amani Givens showcased a strong performance with 103 rushing yards, while defensive back Cedric Woods made a pivotal tackle on fourth down in the final minute, leading Louisiana Tech to a narrow 12-7 victory over Western Kentucky on Saturday. This win marked Louisiana Tech’s first road victory since last season.

As the contest came down to the wire, Louisiana Tech was gearing up for a mid-range field-goal attempt that could have extended their lead to eight points. However, a notable tackle for a loss on third down pushed kicker Buck Buchanan back, resulting in a blocked 48-yard field-goal attempt by Hosea Wheeler, which rolled out of bounds at midfield. This gave Western Kentucky a chance to attempt a game-winning touchdown.

Western Kentucky managed a first down aided by a controversial pass interference call that advanced the ball to the LaTech 30-yard line. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp initially had an open receiver for a potential score but underthrew the pass. He later connected with Dalvin Smith for a 13-yard completion. Unfortunately for Western Kentucky, Woods quickly tackled Smith, leaving them just two yards short of a first down with less than a minute to play.

Louisiana Tech improved their record to 4-4 overall and 3-4 in Conference USA, celebrating their first away win after a long drought since a 24-10 victory against UTEP on September 29, 2023. This win was significant, considering the Bulldogs have experienced 23 losses in their last 24 road games.

During the first half, Buck Buchanan successfully converted three field goals within Louisiana Tech’s first four drives, including a long kick of 42 yards, allowing his team to secure a 9-7 lead at halftime.

For their part, Veltkamp completed 18 of 26 passes for a total of 152 yards for Western Kentucky, who now stands at 7-3 overall and 5-1 in the conference.