Game Preview: Eagles welcome nationally ranked opponent to Statesboro

DJ Cadden, Sports Editor

History: Georgia Southern and Coastal Carolina have competed against each other seven times, with the Eagles winning five of their previous matchups.

Last Week: The Eagles hosted rival Georgia State on Saturday, but fell to the Panthers on a last-minute touchdown, 21-14.

“We thought it was a game that we could compete in,” said interim head coach Kevin Whitley following the loss. “We’re in a profession where close don’t count. Playing well for three quarters doesn’t count so we got to put it all together.”

Quarterback Justin Tomlin recorded career highs in pass completions (16) and passing yards (279), but the Eagles only managed to post 14 points. Two costly interceptions and a goal line stand by the Panthers ultimately proved to be the difference in Saturday’s game.

Scouting Report: Coastal Carolina is really good at football.

On offense, the Chanticleers are a well-oiled machine. Jamey Chadwell’s spread-option offense has Coastal Carolina sitting at No. 6 in total yards per game with over 520. The offense is also one of the most balanced attacks in football, averaging more than 230 yards on the ground and over 290 yards through the air.

All-American quarterback Grayson McCall and star tight end Isaiah Likely have become one of the most potent connections in the country, resulting in more than 600 yards and eight touchdowns when the two team up.

The Chanticleer offense has been sound when defending the pass, allowing just over 185 passing yards per game this season. However, the team has struggled to consistently defend the run, ranking just No. 62 in rushing defense this season.

The Coastal Carolina defense has allowed three 100-yard rushed in their eight games so far. With a big-play threat in Logan Wright, the Eagles must look to attack the Chanticleer front seven.

Bottom Line: Coastal Carolina is simply a better football team than Georgia Southern is, plain and simple.

A nationally-ranked team who has won 18 of their last 20 games meets a team on a three-game losing streak and just a few weeks off firing their head coach. The game is not until Saturday, but it may already be over.

Logan Wright may need to rush for 300 yards this week for the Eagles to have a chance. Do not get your hopes up, Eagle Nation.

Prediction: Chants roll on the road, 41-13