2024 Sun Belt Football Preseason Win Totals: Predictions, Odds, and Team-by-Team Breakdown
The Sun Belt Conference is known for its unpredictability and competitive spirit, and the 2024 preseason is no exception. This season, with the Sun Belt maintaining its divisional structure, we’ll see a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising contenders. As teams prepare for what promises to be another thrilling season, one of the most talked-about topics is the preseason win totals set by sportsbooks. This guide will delve into each Sun Belt team’s win totals, examining the odds from major sportsbooks, providing our predictions, and highlighting where the consensus picks stand.
Sun Belt Conference Overview
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand the Sun Belt’s unique structure. The conference is divided into two divisions: the Sun Belt East and Sun Belt West. Each division features a mix of established programs and up-and-coming teams, creating a dynamic competitive landscape. This divisional setup means that teams not only compete within their division but also have significant implications for cross-division matchups and conference championships.
Sun Belt Win Totals: Team-by-Team Breakdown
1. Appalachian State Mountaineers
Preseason Win Total: 8.5
Odds: -110 (BetMGM), -120 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 9
Appalachian State has been a consistent performer in the Sun Belt, and the 2024 season should be no different. With a solid roster returning, including a strong defense and a capable offense, the Mountaineers are expected to be a contender in the East Division. Their win total of 8.5 reflects their strong position, though our prediction of 9 suggests they are likely to exceed expectations. Key games against conference rivals will be pivotal, but with their track record, Appalachian State is a strong candidate to hit the over.
2. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers
Preseason Win Total: 7.5
Odds: +105 (DraftKings), -110 (PointsBet)
CFN Set Win Total: 8
Coastal Carolina has been a rising star in the Sun Belt, and 2024 could see them taking another step forward. The Chanticleers have a potent offense and a solid defense, which supports a win total of 7.5. Our prediction of 8 reflects confidence in their ability to perform well, especially in key matchups within the East Division. Coastal Carolina’s potential to surpass their win total will largely depend on their performance in high-stakes games.
3. Troy Trojans
Preseason Win Total: 6.5
Odds: -120 (BetMGM), +100 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 7
Troy has shown flashes of brilliance in recent seasons, and the 2024 campaign could be their chance to shine. With a balanced roster and key players returning, their preseason win total of 6.5 seems reasonable. However, with a prediction of 7, it’s anticipated that Troy will meet or slightly exceed expectations. The Trojans will need to capitalize on their opportunities and secure victories in crucial games to hit the over.
4. Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns
Preseason Win Total: 7
Odds: -110 (DraftKings), -115 (PointsBet)
CFN Set Win Total: 7.5
The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns have been a formidable force in the Sun Belt, and the 2024 season should be no different. With a win total set at 7, their ability to perform well is widely recognized. Our prediction of 7.5 indicates confidence in their capability to achieve more than the sportsbook suggests. The Ragin’ Cajuns’ success will depend on their performance against both division and cross-division rivals.
5. South Alabama Jaguars
Preseason Win Total: 6
Odds: -105 (BetMGM), -120 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 6.5
South Alabama is a team on the rise, with the potential to make a significant impact in the Sun Belt. Their preseason win total of 6 reflects the expectations for the team, though our prediction of 6.5 suggests they have the potential to perform better than anticipated. Key games and their ability to execute in critical moments will be crucial for the Jaguars to hit the over.
6. Georgia Southern Eagles
Preseason Win Total: 5.5
Odds: -110 (DraftKings), +105 (PointsBet)
CFN Set Win Total: 6
Georgia Southern is known for its competitive spirit and resilience. The preseason win total of 5.5 is a reflection of their current standing, but with a prediction of 6, it’s expected that the Eagles will manage to exceed this mark. Their success will hinge on their performance in both conference and non-conference games.
7. Arkansas State Red Wolves
Preseason Win Total: 4.5
Odds: +110 (BetMGM), -115 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 5
Arkansas State is in a rebuilding phase, and their preseason win total of 4.5 reflects the challenges they face. Our prediction of 5 suggests that while the Red Wolves might struggle, they have the potential to achieve slightly more than the sportsbooks anticipate. Success will depend on their ability to develop and execute strategies effectively throughout the season.
8. ULM Warhawks
Preseason Win Total: 4
Odds: -115 (DraftKings), -120 (PointsBet)
CFN Set Win Total: 4.5
The ULM Warhawks face an uphill battle this season, with a preseason win total set at 4. Our prediction of 4.5 indicates a slight improvement, though the Warhawks will need to navigate a challenging schedule to exceed expectations. Key matchups and their performance in close games will be critical.
9. Texas State Bobcats
Preseason Win Total: 4
Odds: -110 (BetMGM), +105 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 4.5
Texas State is another team that faces significant challenges this season. With a win total of 4, the Bobcats will need to make the most of their opportunities to surpass expectations. Our prediction of 4.5 reflects a belief that they can achieve slightly more, but it will require a strong effort and effective game plans.
10. James Madison Dukes
Preseason Win Total: 7
Odds: -120 (DraftKings), -110 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 7.5
James Madison is an intriguing team with a solid preseason win total of 7. The Dukes have the potential to be a strong competitor in the Sun Belt, and our prediction of 7.5 suggests they might exceed their projected total. Their ability to perform well in both divisional and non-divisional games will be crucial.
11. New Mexico State Aggies
Preseason Win Total: 5.5
Odds: +105 (BetMGM), -115 (PointsBet)
CFN Set Win Total: 6
New Mexico State has shown potential in recent seasons, and their preseason win total of 5.5 reflects moderate expectations. Our prediction of 6 indicates confidence in their ability to perform better than anticipated. Success will depend on their consistency and ability to capitalize on key matchups.
12. Southern Miss Golden Eagles
Preseason Win Total: 5
Odds: -110 (DraftKings), +100 (FanDuel)
CFN Set Win Total: 5.5
Southern Miss has a preseason win total of 5, reflecting a middle-of-the-pack expectation. Our prediction of 5.5 suggests that the Golden Eagles have the potential to achieve slightly more. Key performances and game outcomes will be crucial for exceeding expectations.
Consensus Picks and Key Insights
The Sun Belt Conference is known for its competitive balance, and the 2024 season promises to be no different. The preseason win totals set by sportsbooks offer valuable insights, but there’s always room for interpretation and adjustment based on team performances and other variables.
Teams like Appalachian State and Coastal Carolina are expected to be strong contenders, with win totals reflecting their potential to perform well. Troy, Louisiana, and South Alabama are also positioned to be significant players in the conference, with win totals indicating a competitive season ahead.
On the other hand, teams like Arkansas State, ULM, and Texas State are in a rebuilding phase, with lower win totals reflecting their current challenges. However, these teams could surprise and outperform expectations with strong performances and effective strategies.
Overall Predictions:
- Top Contenders: Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina, and Louisiana are expected to be among the top performers, with win totals reflecting their potential to be major players in the conference.
- Potential Surprises: Teams like South Alabama and James Madison have the potential to exceed their win totals, making them teams to watch for potential upsets and strong performances.
- Rebuilding Teams: Arkansas State, ULM, and Texas State face significant challenges and have lower win totals, but improvements and surprises are always possible.
As the 2024 Sun Belt season unfolds, keeping an eye on team performances and adjusting predictions accordingly will be essential. The competitive nature of the conference ensures that each game will have implications for the overall standings and playoff aspirations. Whether you’re a fan or a bettor, understanding these win totals and predictions will help navigate the exciting season ahead.
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