Week 1 of the 2024 college football season kicks off with an intriguing Sunbelt vs. C-USA matchup as Coastal Carolina travels to Jacksonville State. This game, set for September 2nd, will feature two exciting teams with unique styles and high expectations. Coastal Carolina, under head coach Tim Beck, looks to build on their success, while Jacksonville State, led by Rich Rodriguez, aims to continue their impressive run from their first FBS season.

How to Watch

• Date: Saturday, September 2nd
• Time: 8:00 PM Eastern Time
• TV Channel: CBS Sports Network

Betting Odds

• Spread: Jacksonville State -3
• Total: 57.5
• Moneyline: Jacksonville State -166, Coastal Carolina +140

Understanding Betting Terms

Betting Spread: This is the number of points by which a team is favored to win. For this game, Jacksonville State is favored by 3 points, meaning they need to win by more than 3 points for a bet on them to pay out.

Betting Total: Also known as the over/under, this is the total number of points expected to be scored by both teams combined. For this game, the total is set at 57.5 points.

Moneyline: This is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The odds indicate how much you need to bet to win a certain amount. For Jacksonville State, a bet of $166 is needed to win $100, while a $100 bet on Coastal Carolina would yield $140 if they win.

Game Analysis

Jacksonville State Gamecocks

The Jacksonville State Gamecocks are entering their second FBS season under head coach Rich Rodriguez. They impressed in their debut season, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, and look to build on that success.

Offense: Jacksonville State’s offense is expected to be led by senior quarterback Logan Smothers, who brings experience and leadership to the team. The offensive line, which outweighs Coastal Carolina’s defensive line by an average of 28 pounds per man, is a significant advantage. The Gamecocks’ ability to control the line of scrimmage and establish the run will be crucial.

Defense: Jacksonville State’s defense was a standout unit last season, despite being undersized. They only gave up three rushes of 30 yards or more all season, demonstrating their discipline and effectiveness. The defensive line and secondary will be key in containing Coastal Carolina’s dynamic offense. However, the departure of defensive coordinator Zack Alley to Oklahoma presents a challenge, and new coordinator Luke Olson will need to maintain the high standards.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, under head coach Tim Beck, are coming off a successful season and look to continue their upward trajectory. With significant talent on both sides of the ball, they are a formidable opponent.

Offense: Coastal Carolina’s offense is led by a quarterback battle between Noah Kim, a transfer from Michigan State, and Vasco, who started multiple games last season. The Chanticleers’ offensive line needs to improve in run blocking, as they were in the bottom 20 in the country last season. The quarterback play and offensive line performance will be critical in their success.

Defense: Coastal Carolina’s defense has room for improvement, particularly in the secondary, which lost its top two players. The defensive line will face a tough challenge against Jacksonville State’s larger offensive line. The ability of the defense to contain the Gamecocks’ rushing attack and pressure the quarterback will be pivotal.

Key Matchups

Line of Scrimmage: The battle at the line of scrimmage will be crucial. Jacksonville State’s offensive line needs to dominate and establish the run, while Coastal Carolina’s defensive front must find ways to penetrate and disrupt.

Quarterback Play: Both teams rely heavily on their quarterbacks. Smothers’ experience and leadership for Jacksonville State will be tested against Coastal Carolina’s dynamic playmakers. The performance of Kim or Vasco for Coastal Carolina will also be pivotal in maintaining offensive balance and efficiency.

Defensive Performance: Jacksonville State’s disciplined defense against Coastal Carolina’s explosive offense will be a key factor. If the Gamecocks can stifle Coastal’s run game and force turnovers, they have a strong chance of covering the spread.

Trends and Insights

• Jacksonville State: The Gamecocks were 3-0 against the spread as a home favorite last season and 5-1 against the spread overall at home. They have shown resilience and effectiveness, particularly on defense.
• Coastal Carolina: The Chanticleers were 4-2 against the spread on the road last season and 5-2 as an underdog. They have been competitive in these roles, showing their ability to perform under pressure.

Prediction

Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this game is expected to be closely contested. Jacksonville State’s balanced attack and strong defense give them an edge, especially playing at home.

Predicted Score: Jacksonville State 31, Coastal Carolina 27

Conclusion

The Week 1 showdown between Coastal Carolina and Jacksonville State promises to be an exciting and competitive game. Fans should tune in to witness a clash of coaching philosophies and talent as both teams look to solidify their early-season form.

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