by LATech » Sun Jul 13, 2003 4:56 pm
Stallion is correct, it's irrelevant. However, let's set the record straight on SoCal_Pony's "criteria" mis-assertions.
Football Attendance- Since 1998 Louisiana Tech has averaged 19,155 fans/game, while UNT has averaged 14,072. Going back to 1997 LA Tech's attendance avg. increases to nearly 20K/game, not sure about UNT. I know that UNT has met the new Div 1A minimum attendance requirement of 15K only twice over the past 5 seasons. Tech exceeds this every year, good season or bad.
LA Tech set an all-time enrollment record in Fall 2003 with over 11K students. We do not have massive #s of commuter students like UNT (DFW metro working folks attending school at night to get a Masters' degree). Notably, LA Tech's enrollment has increased consecutively for the past 7 years, while tougher selective admissions standards have been implemented. Let me know if you want links.
Location- Louisiana Tech is an easy 4 hour drive from Dallas, TX. We played you in Shreveport in 2001, which is only a 3 hour drive from Dallas. In either case, it is 100% on I-20 with LA Tech's stadium less than 1/2 mile off of I-20.
Academic Reputation- Louisiana Tech is regarded as one of the finest Engineering universities in the south. I'm not sure what UNT is known for.
Finally, if you are going to compare professional athletes, don't stop with just the Mailman:
LA Tech: Karl Malone PF Utah/LA?, Terry Bradshaw QB Steelers, PJ Brown PF Hornets, William Roaf OT Saints/Chiefs, Fred Dean DE 49ers, Pat Tilley WR Cardinals, Troy Edwards WR Cardinals, Matt Stover K Ravens, Chris Boniol K Cowboys/Eagles, Tim Rattay QB 49ers, Larry Anderson DB Steelers/Colts, Mike Barber TE Oilers, Roger Carr WR Colts, Doug Evans CB Packers/Panthers,...
If you would rather be in a conference with UNT, then SMU should join the Sunbelt. They'd love to have you! Louisiana Tech said "NO" to that opportunity a few years ago.