This Week in the Sun Belt

Sun Belt play actually started last night, as Arkansas State (2-2, 1-0) defeated Georgia Southern (0-4, 0-1) 43-25 in the Eagles' home opener.  The Red Wolves turned it over five times, the Eagles four times.  Justice Hansen threw for four touchdowns (and four interceptions) in the victory.

Here are the games for this Saturday: all games are on ESPN3

ULM (2-2, 2-0) (-6') at TEXAS STATE (1-4, 0-1)  2:00pm--The Warhawks put up half a hundred for the second straight week in their win over Coastal Carolina, but could find the going a tad tougher against an improving Texas State defense.  The Bobcats have really struggled offensively, however, as Everett Withers continues the building process in San Marcos.  The Warhawks may not score 50 this week, but then again, they may not have to.

NEW MEXICO STATE (2-3, 0-1) (+10') at APPALACHIAN STATE (2-2, 1-0)  2:30pm--The Aggies lost their first conference game against the team picked second in the league (Troy) and now they get to take on the league favorite.  App State didn't impress in its league opener at Texas State but they've got a great home field advantage in Boone.  It will be interesting to see how many points the Aggies score against that Mountaineers' defense.

LOUISIANA (1-3, 0-1) (+7) at IDAHO (2-2, 1-0)  4:00 pm---Cajuns haven't come close to stopping anyone yet this season and they'll have their hands full against a balanced Idaho offense.  QB Matt Linehan had a solid game at Cajun Field last year and Aaron Duckworth rushed for over 100 yards.  Duckworth is second in the league in rushing this year.  Idaho's defense stymied the Cajuns' offense a year ago...but the Cajuns are better on that side of the ball this year.

GEORGIA STATE (1-2, 0-0) (-1) at COASTAL CAROLINA (1-3, 0-1) 5:30 pm--Coastal showed they could score points in their loss to ULM last week, but the Chants were on the losing end for the third straight game.  Georgia State has improved since their debacle against Tennessee State in their season opener.  Georgia State's defense could be a big key in this game.

South Alabama and Troy are off this Saturday in preparation for their showdown on ESPN 2 next Wednesday night.