App State Football: 3 takeaways from Sun Belt win over Louisiana
By Zach Bigalke
3. Zac Thomas made the difference for Appalachian State by air and land
It was a wet day in Boone, making it difficult for both quarterbacks to throw the ball. But Zac Thomas outdueled his counterpart Andre Nunez, finishing the day with 75 yards on 6-of-13 passing. What was most important, though, was that Thomas avoided throwing any interceptions while Nunez tossed a pair of picks for the Ragin’ Cajuns.
Thomas also chipped in with a solid day running the football for the Mountaineers. Appalachian State’s quarterback scored two rushing touchdowns, as he pounded the rock nine times for 59 total yards. With three of those rushing attempts actually sacks, it becomes even more apparent how critical Thomas was in the rushing game.
The Mountaineers got great contributions all around on their home field in Boone as they pulled away with the first-ever Sun Belt championship game victory. But the biggest difference between two sides that had solid running games and great special teams was the quarterback play. Thomas was simply better in the battle between the two finalists.
Next. A brief history of the conference championship game. dark
Now Appalachian State will prepare for a trip to the New Orleans Bowl, while the Ragin’ Cajuns will wait to see where they might end up in the bowl pecking order this season.