The theory behind modern warfare: a high powered air attack with support from a stable ground unit.

Similarly, Louisiana Tech's passing game might get all the publicity for the Bulldogs, but the key to their success tomorrow lies on the ground.

Despite the numerous comparisons between the Bulldog's offense and the attack of Central Florida, which managed to score 24 points in Penn State's season opener, La. Tech will present the most balanced offense the Nittany Lions have faced so far.

In three games this season, La. Tech has compiled 408 rushing yards to accompany 884 passing yards at the hand of quarterback Luke McCown.

Instead of a spread offense based with emphasis solely on throwing the ball, La. Tech will also bring a solid rushing game with running back Joe Smith, who's averaging 99.7 yards per game.

"When you spread the offense out like we do, you have to be able to run the ball," Louisiana Tech coach Jack Bicknell said. "Joe Smith gives us the ability to do that."

Unlike Nebraska's option-heavy running game, that the Lions' swarming defense had no problem stopping, Smith will try to power the ball up the middle.

The big question for Penn State will be defense. Unlike UCF game, where the Lions relied on Nickel packages to contain the Golden Knights offense, Penn State coach Joe Paterno has said his team will keep a full front seven in most of the game, leaving the secondary alone to stop the bombs-away McCown, who is averaging 274 passing yards per game this season.

Still, Paterno feels confident in his defense, in large part thanks to the performance of his linebackers last week.

"We are fortunate we have two kids that can play the pass well," Paterno said. "We don't get into a lot of nickel and dimes against people like La. Tech because both [linebacker LeMar] Stewart and [linebacker Dereck] Wake are excellent athletes and darn near good enough athletes to be safeties."