Whether or not Marshall can truly be a fly-in-the-ointment team and sneak into the playoffs is secondary from a handicapping standpoint to the fact they clearly believe they belong in the discussion. They have covered six straight, the last five by 13.4.

With QB Rakeem Cato leading the way, Marshall has scored at least 42 points in every game this season. Its 574.9 yards per game trails only Baylor 579.0. Johnson has played a large role with 931 yards on the ground ninth most in the FBS and 13 total touchdowns. He gives them balance.

The Owls have been outscored 154-36 on the road this season. Style points baby. The Herd is going nowhere without them.