Why South Alabama Could Prove a Worthy Contender Against Oklahoma State
South Alabama +7 (-110)
Today’s free College Football pick:
This Saturday, an exciting college football matchup unfolds as the South Alabama Jaguars go head-to-head with the Oklahoma State Cowboys. While Oklahoma State enters the game with a pristine 2-0 record, South Alabama aims to prove that they are not to be underestimated. Let’s delve into the details and find out why South Alabama, despite being the underdog, might just be the team to watch in this intriguing showdown.
Match details:
Teams: Oakland Athletics vs Texas Rangers
Event: College Football
Date: 16 September, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm Eastern Time
Venue: Boone Pickens Stadium
Jaguars on the Rise
South Alabama’s 2023 campaign started with a stumble against Tulane, but they quickly rebounded with an impressive 37-15 victory against a quality FCS opponent, Southeastern Louisiana. Although the Jaguars face the challenge of WR Devin Voisin’s expected absence due to injury, their game plan isn’t built on airing it out frequently.
South Alabama’s QB, Carter Bradley, has faced issues with turnovers throughout his college career, and this season has been no different, with three interceptions alongside two touchdowns in two games. Their game plan centers around a ground attack and a short passing game—a strategy that nearly secured a remarkable road upset against UCLA last season. Bradley completed 26 passes for 237 yards in that valiant 32-31 loss against the Bruins.
Key contributors like RB La’Damian Webb and Kentrel Bullock bolster South Alabama’s rushing game. Despite Voisin’s potential absence, the team still boasts underrated wideouts in Caullin Lacy and reliable contributors like Jamaal Pritchett. South Alabama’s offensive strategy, combined with their resolute defense, could pose challenges for the Cowboys.
Cowboys’ Uncertain Offense
Oklahoma State may flaunt a perfect 2-0 record, but they are not without their concerns. A three-quarterback rotation and the absence of key offensive contributors from the previous season have left some questions unanswered. While the Cowboys have talent at the wide receiver position, their quarterbacks might not be fully equipped to maximize that potential. Furthermore, a true game-changer in the backfield has yet to emerge.
Defensively, the Cowboys remain a bit of an enigma. Their early-season schedule, facing Central Arkansas from the FCS and a rebuilding Arizona State team, hasn’t fully tested their defensive capabilities. South Alabama, despite being the underdog, has a more reliable offensive strategy than one might think.
Final Thoughts: A Game of Equals
In this matchup, it’s reasonable to assume that both teams will employ similar game plans. South Alabama and Oklahoma State, despite the difference in their records, are more closely matched than meets the eye. While the Cowboys have drawn a favorable early-season schedule, the Jaguars bring a balanced offense and a resilient defense to the table.
Saturday’s game in Stillwater is likely to be a closely contested affair, with South Alabama proving to be a worthy contender. Despite the odds, don’t be surprised if the Jaguars give Oklahoma State a run for their money. In a game that promises to be nip and tuck, taking South Alabama might just be a shrewd choice for the savvy football bettor.
