UTC (1-0) at No. 17/18 JACKSONVILLE STATE (0-1)
Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019
7 p.m. at EDT Burgess-Snow Field in Jacksonville, Alabama
VIDEO & RADIO
ESPN+ & 97.7 FM
THE MATCHUP
This nonconference rivalry had gone the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's way until 2004, with the Mocs winning 24 of 29 games. Since then, though, the Gamecocks hold a 10-2 edge. Jacksonville State has outperformed the Mocs athletically in recent games and has plenty of playmakers to try that route again, led by quarterback Zerrick Cooper. In last week's upset loss at Southeastern Louisiana, Cooper passed for 414 yards, but two interceptions cost the team 14 points. The Mocs come in with the experience edge on their roster and the speed to at least cut back on the big plays that have turned the teams' meetings in recent years.
ONE TO WATCH
Instead of one person, we'll go with one unit. UTC's defensive line more than held its own in last week's win over Eastern Illinois. Khayyan Edwards, Telvin Jones and Devonnsha Maxwell not only made plays in the backfield, they also kept blockers off the UTC linebackers. The Gamecocks' inexperienced offensive line gave up six sacks and numerous other pressures a week ago. Harassing Cooper is the Mocs' No. 1 defensive goal.
IN THE END
Jacksonville State losing its opener in upset fashion is probably the worst thing that could have happened for the Mocs. Expect a quick start for the angry Gamecocks. If the Mocs can eliminate the silly mistakes that kept Eastern Illinois drives alive in the opener and get a few quick defensive series, ending the team's misery at Burgess-Snow Field is a possibility. The other key ingredient for the upset is a decent running game that can take some of the pressure off Nick Tiano and the passing game. In the end, though, it's hard to believe the Gamecocks, ranked sixth to start the season, will lose two straight.
PREDICTION
Jacksonville State 28, UTC 24
Contact Lindsey Young at lyoung@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6296. Follow him on Twitter @youngsports22.