The upcoming Sun Belt showdown between Old Dominion and Coastal Carolina presents an interesting matchup between a struggling Monarchs team and a Chanticleers squad looking to rebound. Coastal Carolina, currently 3-1, has shown flashes of brilliance on offense, averaging nearly 37 points per game. They suffered their first loss of the season last week against Virginia, conceding 43 points in a game where the defense was unable to slow down the Cavaliers. Quarterback Ethan Vasko will lead the Chanticleers, and despite an average completion percentage (53.6%), his dual-threat capabilities have kept defenses on their toes. Old Dominion, on the other hand, comes into this game at 1-3 but secured a narrow victory over Bowling Green last week. Their offense, led by Grant Wilson, has struggled to find consistency, averaging just 20 points per game.

The Monarchs have relied on running back Aaron Young, who has racked up 280 rushing yards this season, to carry the load. The key for Old Dominion will be to establish the ground game early and sustain long drives to keep Coastal’s high-powered offense off the field. Defensively, Coastal Carolina has been vulnerable, especially against the run, ranking 114th in FBS in rushing yards allowed per game. This weakness could play into Old Dominion’s favor if they can find success on the ground. However, the Monarchs’ defense has its own issues, allowing 26.8 points per game and struggling to contain more balanced offenses like Coastal’s. If Coastal Carolina’s offense finds its rhythm early, they should be able to build a comfortable lead and force Old Dominion to play catch-up. But if Old Dominion can capitalize on Coastal’s defensive lapses, they might keep the game closer than expected.