Army prevails in defensive battle, 14-7

WEST POINT-- A tough, hard-nosed Army defense led the Black Knights to their third victory of the season. Army limited the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs to just 152 yards total offense in a hard fought, 14-7, victory. Ian Smith ran for one score and caught another to help boost his team's record to 3-5.

Army drew first blood as Smith scored on a 1-yard run with 2:30 remaining in the first quarter. In that drive Army gained excellent field position afer linebacker Frank Scappaticci sacked Tech quarterback Ross Jenkins and caused a fumble that was recovered by Fritz Bentler at the Bulldog 18.

After a scoreless second quarter Louisiana Tech took advantage of an Army fumble and scored on R.P. Stuart's 2-yard run. The score stood at 7-7 with 7 minutes remaining in the third quarter.

After a missed Tech field goal, Army quarterback Chip Bowden found Ian Smith for a 2-yard scoring pass to put Army back up, 14-7, with 10 minutes left in the game.

Louisiana Tech could advance no further than their own 37 in their final three drives of the game.

Army limited Tech to just 68 yards rushing and 84 yards passing during the game.

Army gained just 235 yards total offense including 203 rushing yards. Collin Mooney gained 57 yards in 17 carries for the Cadets.

Next up for Army will be rival Air Force at West Point. Louisiana Tech falls to 3-4 and face Fresno State on Saturday.