Jacksonville State vs Liberty Prediction NCAAF Picks 10/10
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 10, 2023, 12:41:21 AM
© Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports
Jacksonville State vs. Liberty: C-USA Preview and Prediction
Get ready for a Tuesday night showdown as the Jacksonville State Gamecocks host the Liberty Flames at Burgess-Snow Field. This Conference USA clash promises to ignite the college football scene with a fierce battle between two teams sporting impressive records.
Team Analysis
Jacksonville State Gamecocks
The Jacksonville State Gamecocks enter this contest with a formidable 5-1 record, riding high on their recent road victory over the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, where they secured a 45-30 win. Now, they are back on their home turf, determined to defend their territory.
One of the Gamecocks' standout features has been their ground game, led by running back Malik Jackson, who has amassed an impressive 559 rushing yards and four touchdowns. This powerful rushing attack has been the linchpin of their offensive strategy, helping them establish control and keep their opponents at bay.
What sets the Gamecocks apart is their clean bill of health. Unlike their counterparts, Liberty, Jacksonville State has no reported injuries, granting them the advantage of a full roster. This depth could prove pivotal, especially in the later stages of the game when fatigue becomes a factor.
On the defensive front, Jacksonville State has been formidable, allowing just 4.7 yards per play. Their rush defense, in particular, has been stellar, conceding only 112.7 rushing yards per game. This could play a crucial role in containing Liberty's running back, Quinton Cooley, and forcing the Flames into a one-dimensional approach.
Liberty Flames
Meanwhile, the Liberty Flames enter this matchup as the favorites with a pristine 5-0 overall record. Their recent 21-16 victory over Sam Houston showcased their ability to triumph even in the face of adversity. Quarterback Kaidon Salter leads the charge with 1,176 passing yards and an impressive 12 touchdowns.
Salter's primary target, CJ Daniels, has been a force to be reckoned with, accumulating 420 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Flames' offensive prowess, averaging 7.1 yards per play, makes them a formidable opponent for any defense.
However, injuries have cast a shadow over the Flames. Key players like wide receiver Noah Frith and running back Billy Lucas are listed as questionable, potentially limiting Liberty's offensive options. Despite these challenges, the Flames boast exceptional depth, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Liberty's defense has been staunch, allowing just 4.8 yards per play and demonstrating particular strength against the pass, conceding only 196.8 passing yards per game. This formidable defense could be the deciding factor in neutralizing Jacksonville State's offensive threats.
Prediction
In this highly anticipated clash, the odds favor Liberty with a -6.0 points spread and an over/under set at 60.5 points. The prediction leans towards the Jacksonville State Gamecocks covering the +6 points spread.
While Liberty's offense is potent, Jacksonville State's clean bill of health and impressive defensive statistics make them a formidable contender. Their ability to control the game through their ground attack and maintain a strong defensive presence could be the key to covering the spread.
Expect a captivating showdown on the field as both teams put their strengths to the test. With a +6 points spread, the Gamecocks have a legitimate chance to make this contest even more thrilling.
