Coming off a bye week, Coastal Carolina is rested and heading to Norfolk, Virginia for their second Sun Belt Conference matchup of the season against the Old Dominion Monarchs.
The Chanticleers will lean on their ground game with running backs Ja’Vin Simpkins and Dominic Knicely carrying the load. Their strength will be tested against the defense that has already gone toe-to-toe with two Power Four opponents and beaten one.
Coastal’s defense, led by linebacker Shane Bruce, will also have its hands full with an Old Dominion offense that has scored 120 points in their last three games.
Old Dominion quarterback Colton Joseph has been the engine of production, totaling 1,261 yards with 900 passing and 361 rushing, along with 12 touchdowns. His playmaking ability is one reason ESPN has the Monarchs listed as more than a 20-point favorite.
One key storyline will be Joseph’s impact on the game. He has shown the ability to beat teams both through the air and on the ground, giving Old Dominion one of the more balanced attacks in the Sun Belt.
Turnovers could also decide the matchup. The Monarchs have forced nine this season, while the Chanticleers have given the ball away nine times.
Winning that battle may be Coastal’s best chance at pulling the upset.
All eyes will be on CCU quarterback Tad Hudson, who took control of the Chanticleers’ offense in a win over South Alabama on Sept. 20. After an extra week to prepare, Saturday’s game will be another test to see if Hudson can build on that performance against one of the league’s toughest defenses.
Kickoff is set for Saturday at 6:00 p.m. in Norfolk, Va. as the Chanticleers look to upset the Monarchs and pick up a key road win in Sun Belt play.
