The set-up: MTSU was 4-8 overall last year, while Army was 5-8. The Black Knights finished third in the country in rushing, as it lacked offensive punch through the air and struggled on the defensive end. MTSU's issues on offense were much bigger though and its inability to sustain drives would then lead to added pressure on the defense. MTSU uses a two QB system, with Asher O'Hara and Chase Cunningham splitting duties. 

The pick: Army averaged 28.5 PPG and it allowed 23 last season. Christian Anderson is the new QB, who will be leaning heavily upon returning RB Sandon McCoy, who had ten rushing TD's a year ago. MTSU should improve, but I think Army's relentless rushing attack, combined with its superior defense will see it pull away down the stretch for the comfortable cover. Lay the points.

The is a 10* NON-CONF. BLOWOUT on Army.

The set-up: South Alabama was just 2-8 last year, but with QB Desmond Trotter back under center, along with most of the defensive unit, the Jaguars are expected to take a big step forward. Trogger had 820 yards passing with eight touchdowns and two interceptions in seven games. Four starters return to the offensive line as well. Trotter also has six of the Jag's top seven receivers returning. Also seven of the top eight defenders return.

The pick: Southern Miss was 7-6 last year and senior QB Jack Abraham is back after completing nearly 68 percent of his chances, with 19 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Abraham though lost five of his top seven pass receivers, and while the defense will be a strength of the team, the questions marks on the other side of the ball are a concern to open the season in my opinion. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on South Alabama.