Sun Belt Week 9 Preview: Major implications
Last week, two very surprising results occurred in the Sun Belt. James Madison lost its first game of the season, and Troy lost at home to the then-winless Louisiana-Monroe. Now those two teams will face off and look to get back in the win column. While that matchup carries weight, there are other games that …
Troy will face James Madison in a crucial Sun Belt Week 9 matchup. The Dukes will be without their star rusher, George Pettaway, who is out due to injury. This means more work for Nick Herman and Seth Cromwell in the backfield, and a larger role for passing quarterback Camden Coleman. The Trojans' pass rusher, Donnie Smith, will be a key defensive player to contain the Dukes' offense. Troy's offense has struggled this season, and quarterback Goose Crowder's performance will be crucial for a win.
Louisiana Tech enters a critical game against South Alabama, riding a four-game winning streak and leading the Sun Belt West Division. However, South Alabama is second in the division and a tough challenge for the Jaguars. South Alabama has allowed over 32 points per game this season, ranking near the bottom of the nation, and is vulnerable in both pass and run defense.
Louisiana Tech will need to limit the Jaguars' powerful passing duo of Jalen Mickens and Eli Finley. Meanwhile, South Alabama's defense will aim to pressure the Jaguars' quarterback, Jared Hollins, to disrupt their passing game. This West Division matchup will determine the top spot in the conference standings.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.