We like South Alabama and Appalachian State to finish over the total for a number of reasons. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. The total might seem high but South Alabama just scored 87 points in its last game.

2. The Jaguars are averaging 512.3 yards of offense per game and 48.3 points.

3. The Jaguars can score but their defense can be really bad. They gave up 52 points and 550 yards in their loss to North Texas. They returned only 3 defensive starters from last year.

4. Appalachian State has had some great defenses but this doesn't seem to be one of them. The Mountaineers gave up 66 against Clemson and are allowing 31.7 points and 447 yards per game.

5. The Mountaineers scored 38 points in their only home game. Playing a home game on ESPN against a leaky South Alabama defense, they will be motivated to put up a large number.

This will be a fast-paced game with a lot of big plays. We expect both teams to put up huge offensive numbers and the final score to go over the total.

AAA Sports