It may seem early in the season for the Appalachian State Mountaineers to put up or shut up, but it is that time. Georgia Southerncomes in tonight. This marks the renewal of the rivalry between the former Southern Conference foes that used to mark the best of FCS football. Now the two schools are trying to show they are the best the Sun Belt has to offer.
Both schools were blown out by a Power 5 team early in the year. Since then, both teams have been doing the blowing out. Both teams rely on the strength on their running games. For the Eagles, that means their shotgun variant of the triple option. For the Mountaineers, that means their spread attack withMarcus Coxlugging the rock. Both teams are undefeated in conference play, and the winner just might be the favorite to win the Sun Belt this year.
Opponent: Georgia Southern Eagles (5-1, 3-0 Sun Belt)
Date: October 22
Time: 7:30 PM
TV: ESPNU
Venue: Kidd-Brewer Stadium
Georgia Southern manhandled the Mountaineers last year, but that was last year. That was an Eagles loaded on the offensive line and capable of imposing itself on the Appalachian State defense. This Mountaineer defense is a little older and a little wiser about these kind of things. The Eagles still haveMatt Breidaand quarterbackKevin Ellisonto carry the football.
On the other side, the Mountaineers need to be ready for a shootout. While Cox and the running game should see as much action as they can, at someTaylor Lambwill have to make some plays to put the teams over the top. No turnovers can be made, since App State has seen where that got them last year.
This should be a good game. It could either be quick and high scoring or potentially a long drawn out ball control affair. Should be a good way to spend a Thursday night.
Prediction: 35-31 Appalachian State
Add us as a preferred source onGoogleLoading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations