GAMEDAY: WKU vs Louisiana-Lafayette

Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports

Well folks the time has come once again, WKU and company hit the big stage today as they take on Louisiana-Lafayette on ESPN2. This one looks to be a good one for the nation to see, as these teams come in 3rd and 4th in the SBC standings. So let’s spare no extra time as we get you prepped for today’s grudge match!

I’ve asked myself multiple times about what type of team the Ragin Cajuns really are, and it seems to be a tough answer. ULL has beaten a decent University of Houston team, which did upset number 17 UCONN at the time of the contest. However despite that win, the Cajuns have found themselves with losses against in-state foe Louisiana-Monroe as well as South Alabama. They have two players averaging in double figures as Shawn Long (20.6 PPG) and Elfrid Payton (19.8 PPG) both combine for majority of the Cajuns’ points. Long also benefits the team in rebounding, as he currently averages 10.8 boards per game. I suspect ULL to come out full force today against the Hilltoppers. However, I’m not saying that I have completely written the Cajuns off, but they don’t impress me whole heartedly. Their conference record includes wins that were easy to achieve, as well as two bad losses. They just don’t impress me, but who knows I could very well eat my words.

I must say, I have asked myself who the Hilltoppers are as well here recently. The Tops have played streaky, and with that a game to game concern, you never know if the opposing team can dismantle the Tops. Heading into today’s matchup I think WKU may have the upper hand. The Tops are coming off of their biggest road win in three-and-a-half years. As well as wanting to improve their conference road game record to 4-0, with that being the first time to accomplish that feat in 45 years. Today the Tops need to… Honestly? Do I even need to say it anymore? I will anyway. They need to find offensive boards, limit turnovers, and to get more players across the stats involved. Last game against ULM T.J. Price was the lone double digit scorer, as he also led all rebounders in the game with 10. Louisiana-Lafayette will definitely put up a much bigger fight than the Warhawks did, and without help from multiple players contributing, things could get rough.

As for the starting line-up, my prediction features Harrison-Docks, Caden Dickerson, T.J. Price, George Fant, and Alex Rostov. Although, I will say that it’s entirely possible for Trency Jackson to start instead of Caden as well, because he and CHD have been the key factors for WKU since becoming eligible in December (aside, of course, from George and T.J.).

Coach Harper and WKU are a combined 6-0 verses the Louisiana schools, and look to stay undefeated today! Also, with a win today the Tops will match the 2008-09 season to a best 20 game starting record in the last six years! As always with conference match-ups there is a lot riding on today’s game! So you definitely won’t want to miss it! The action tips on ESPN2 at 3PM! We hope everyone has an awesome saturday, and as always, GO TOPS!