Southern Miss vs. UTSA Prediction, Game Preview

The Southern Miss Golden Eagles (3-3) and the UTSA Roadrunners (1-5) are hoping to rebound from tough losses this weekend in Hattiesburg. Check out the Southern Miss vs. UTSA prediction and game preview.

Southern Miss vs. UTSA Game Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, October 17
Game Time: 7:00 ET
Venue: M.M. Roberts Stadium, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Network: American Sports Network

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Why You Need To Care

Friday night in Huntington was supposed to be a mini-coming-out party for Southern Miss. Instead, the Golden Eagles just came back to Earth in a deflating 31-10 loss to Marshall. USM now turns its attention to UTSA as the postseason drive continues in the second half of the year. The Roadrunners put up a valiant effort against visiting Louisiana Tech, but slipped to 0-3 in games decided by 10 points or less.

Why UTSA Will Win

In sophomore QB Dalton Sturm, the Roadrunners found a sparkplug on offense. The walk-on replacement for injured Blake Bogenschutz came off the bench to lead the team in rushing and tie a school record with four touchdown passes.

Why Southern Miss Will Win

The Golden Eagles are far more advanced on offense, despite what occurred last week against the Thundering Herd. Prior to Week 6, Southern Miss had scored 49 points in three of the previous four games. Nick Mullens has thrown 15 touchdown passes, Jalen Richard and Ito Smith are potential feature backs and WR Michael Thomas is recapturing his 2014 form.

Player Who Matters

The Southern Miss O-line needs to regroup after being mauled by Marshall last week for 17 quarterback hurries. The Eagles, so sound in the opening month, were whipped at the point of attack. Fortunately for veteran blockers Cameron Tom and Rashod Hill, UTSA has just nine sacks and no one worth double-teaming.

What’s Going To Happen?

It’s back to business for Southern Miss, which has its sights firmly fixed on the six wins needed to play in the postseason for the first time in four years. The Eagles will have far too much firepower and athleticism for a UTSA team remaining competitive with grit, hustle and want-to.