Group of Five New Year’s 6 Watch, Week 8: Coastal Carolina atop Sun Belt
By Dante Pryor
5. Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (3-1, 2-1 Sun Belt)
Despite the Cajuns’ one loss, their schedule is in front of them. Also, running the table in the Sun Belt West possibly gives them a rematch against Coastal Carolina. South Alabama currently sits atop the West — they’ve played one conference game — and have yet to play Louisiana.
For the Cajuns to rejoin the Sun Belt race, they have to turn the ball over less and score more points. Defensively, the Cajuns held Coastal Carolina to season lows in points and yards, yet still lost. Can they score and keep up with more high powered offenses? We’ll find out when they play the UAB Blazers, one of Conference USA’s best.
4. Marshall Thundering Herd (3-0, 1-0 C-USA)
The Marshall Thundering Herd have quietly put together an undefeated season so far. Marshall’s biggest win so far this season came in their second game when they upset Appalachian State 17-7. Head coach Doc Holiday’s calling card this season has been defense. Marshall has allowed 9.5 points per game, good for 3rd in the country.
The offense has been solid, averaging 438 yards and 37.2 points per game. Quarterback Grant Wells has thrown for 859 yards with eight total touchdowns. Running back, Brenden Knox is pacing the running game with 455 yards and seven touchdowns. Marshall plays Florida Atlantic Saturday for first place in Conference USA East.