After defeating Troy 38-17, Texas State football is set to return to UFCU Stadium to face the Arkansas State Red Wolves. As the Bobcats resume conference play this Saturday, the competition for the Sun Belt title intensifies, making it essential to stay competitive with key rivals as the 2024 season progresses.
SBC West:
Arkansas State (3-2):
Coming off an important win against South Alabama, Arkansas State holds a 3-2 record after two consecutive losses to ranked teams. With redshirt senior quarterback Jaylen Raynor at the helm, the Red Wolves aim to maintain their momentum in their upcoming conference matchup with the Bobcats.
Louisiana-Lafayette (4-1):
Louisiana has made a strong start to the 2024 season, boasting a 4-1 record and averaging 37 points per game. Redshirt senior quarterback Ben Wooldridge has surpassed 1,000 passing yards and thrown ten touchdowns, while the Ragin’ Cajuns complement their offense with a robust ground game, totaling 767 rushing yards. Their defense has been impressive, allowing an average of just 289.8 yards per game, the best in the SBC. Redshirt senior kicker Kenneth Almendares remains perfect on field goals, with a long of 50 yards.
Louisiana-Monroe (4-1):
Louisiana-Monroe also stands at 4-1 after victories over Jackson State and UAB. The Warhawks’ defense has been formidable, notably limiting UAB to just six points in Week 2. Freshman running back Ahmad Hardy has been a standout contributor, while quarterback responsibilities have been shared between redshirt junior General Booty and redshirt freshman Aidan Armenta. ULM aims to maintain its strong momentum heading into conference play.
Southern Mississippi (1-4):
Southern Miss is struggling with a 1-4 record this season. The Golden Eagles’ offense is averaging only 15.8 points per game and allowing 31.4 points. Their rushing attack has been weak, averaging just 73.4 yards per game, and they are giving up over 400 total yards on defense.
Troy (1-5):
Troy is having a challenging season with a 1-5 overall record and 0-2 in Sun Belt play. They are allowing an average of 27.83 points per game while scoring just 20.67. Their defense is giving up 181.8 rushing yards per game, and their offense has shown inconsistency, accumulating 791 rushing yards and 1,214 passing yards. Despite these difficulties, Troy boasts a solid 48.1% conversion rate on third downs and a perfect record in the red zone, going 13-for-13.
SBC East:
James Madison (5-1):
The Dukes are making a strong case for the Sun Belt title with a 5-1 record. They average about 439 yards per game, including 192.8 rushing yards, which ranks them 41st nationally. Redshirt quarterback Alonza Barnett III has been instrumental, recording 1,472 passing yards and 15 touchdowns with only one interception. Their defense is solid, allowing just 17.5 points per game.
Appalachian State (3-2):
Currently at 3-2, the Mountaineers are facing challenges on defense, surrendering an average of 28.6 points per game. However, their offense has shown promise, averaging over 400 yards per game, and they are seeking consistency as the conference season progresses.
Georgia Southern (3-2):
With a 3-2 record, Georgia Southern relies heavily on its aerial attack, averaging 268 passing yards per game. Unfortunately, the Eagles’ defense ranks last among Sun Belt teams in yards allowed.
Coastal Carolina (4-2):
The Chanticleers sport a 4-2 record, but their run defense is concerning, giving up an average of 399.7 total yards and 200 rushing yards per game. Coastal Carolina features a potent offense led by sophomore quarterback Ethan Vasko but needs defensive adjustments to secure wins against tougher opponents.
Marshall (3-2):
The Thundering Herd, also at 3-2, has displayed a strong defense, limiting opponents to fewer than 330 yards per game. However, their offense struggles with consistency, particularly in the passing game, which they will need to improve to compete effectively in the Sun Belt.
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