Louisiana Tech mounted a dominant fourth-quarter comeback to defeat Coastal Carolina 23-14 in Week 1. The Chanticleers struck early, with Tad Hudson connecting with Dominic Knicely for a touchdown in the first quarter to take a 7-0 lead. Coastal Carolina added another touchdown before halftime to extend their advantage to 14-3.

However, Louisiana Tech's defense tightened considerably after the break. The Bulldogs' offense came alive in the fourth quarter, with quarterback Trey Kukuk throwing a 52-yard touchdown pass to Marlion Jackson that proved to be the game-deciding play. Louisiana Tech added 17 points in the final frame to secure the victory.

Hudson led Coastal Carolina's offense with 311 passing yards, while Bryson Graves caught 99 receiving yards. Despite the statistical advantage, the Chanticleers couldn't maintain their early momentum. Louisiana Tech's fourth-quarter surge proved too much to overcome, as the Bulldogs outscored Coastal Carolina 20-0 after halftime to claim the upset victory.