The upcoming season represents a critical juncture for Marshall’s head coach Charles Huff, who faces mounting pressure to deliver as expectations rise within the program. Despite three postseason appearances under his leadership, both fans and administrators are eager to see Marshall emerge as a serious contender for a league title. However, achieving this goal won’t be easy, especially in a Sun Belt Conference that continues to grow more competitive with each passing year.
Marshall 2024 Season Preview and Prediction
Previewing Marshall’s Offense for 2024
Heading into the 2024 season, Marshall’s offense will see significant changes under new offensive coordinator Seth Doege. The team struggled in the latter part of the 2023 season, managing only two wins in their final nine games and failing to score in double digits in four of their seven losses. Their inefficiency was underscored by a dismal 31.3% conversion rate on third downs, ranking them as the worst team in the Sun Belt in this crucial metric.
Doege’s arrival brings optimism for a refreshed offensive approach, potentially revitalizing a unit that faltered in critical moments last season. One of the key storylines will be the quarterback competition, where redshirt freshman Cole Pennington, carrying high expectations as the son of Marshall legend Chad Pennington, aims to prove himself. Joining him are experienced quarterbacks like former Morehead State standout Colin Parachek and Tulsa transfer Braylon Braxton, adding depth and competition to the position.
Previewing Marshall’s Defense for 2024
Defensively, Marshall faces a rebuilding phase with several key departures due to graduation and transfers. Redshirt sophomore Michael Green will be pivotal in anchoring the defensive front, notable for its strong performance on third downs, leading the Sun Belt by limiting opponents to a 32.4% conversion rate. The Herd also boasted the best red zone defense in the conference last season, allowing touchdowns on just 23-of-50 trips.
Safety J.J. Roberts emerges as a defensive stalwart following a standout season with 73 total tackles, among the highest returning totals in the Sun Belt. However, the rest of the secondary will feature relatively inexperienced players, posing a challenge for defensive coordinator Jason Semore to maintain the unit’s previous standards of excellence.
Previewing Marshall’s Specialists for 2024
Special teams will undergo changes with Alec Clark likely taking over punting duties after averaging 40.3 yards per kick on seven attempts last season. Placekicker Rece Verhoff returns after a mixed season, converting 11-of-18 field-goal attempts. The return game faces the daunting task of replacing Jayden Harrison, who contributed significantly with two return touchdowns before transferring to Notre Dame.
As Marshall gears up for the 2024 campaign, the team’s success will hinge on navigating these transitions and integrating new talent effectively across all units. With high stakes and heightened expectations, Coach Charles Huff and his staff face a pivotal season that could define the program’s trajectory in the fiercely competitive Sun Belt Conference.
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