The Jacksonville State Gamecocks enter this game following a 9-4 season in their first year at the FBS level. With a strong home-field advantage, the Gamecocks will rely on their physical style of play, led by a balanced attack. They have a quarterback battle between Zion Turner, Logan Smothers, and Tyler Huff, with Smothers likely having the edge after contributing last season. The Gamecocks’ strength lies in their defensive capabilities, particularly against the run, where they allowed only 111.5 rushing yards per game last season. They will aim to pressure Coastal Carolina’s new quarterback and control the game’s tempo with their ground game.

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers come into this game after an 8-5 season, where they finished third in the Sun Belt East Division. Under second-year head coach Tim Beck, they aim to build on their offensive momentum from last season. Coastal Carolina’s offensive line will be a key factor, as they led the Sun Belt in sacks allowed per game in 2023, giving up just 1.31 sacks per contest. The Chanticleers’ challenge will be integrating new starters, including at quarterback, following the departure of Grayson McCall. They will rely heavily on returning running back Sam Pinckney, who posted 1,027 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns last season, to spark their offensive production.