Group of Five Power Rankings, Week 8: Another unbeaten falls

Appalachian State sneaked into the AP Top 25 this week on the strength of their 27-17 win over Louisiana in Week 8. The Mountaineers proved more impressive than San Diego State or Utah State in finishing off their competition, and they also sit first on the list of the others receiving votes in the Coaches Poll.

App State’s rise up the polls opens the door to gain traction in the battle for the Group of Five’s spot in the New Year’s Six. For Scott Satterfield’s team, whose only loss came in the opener in a 45-38 heartbreaker on the road at Penn State, their sustained success is a result of strong offense and strong defense.

The Mountaineers rank fifth in the FBS in scoring offense, rolling up 44.8 points per game on their opponents. Appalachian State’s defense holds opponents to 15.7 points per game, putting them 11th in the country in scoring defense. It has been a winning formula, as the Mountaineers rolled off their fifth straight win by double digits.

Satterfield’s squad is rising in the public consciousness as they continue getting positive results. App State take their winning streak on the road in Week 9 for a key Sun Belt East showdown against Georgia Southern.