After a devastating loss to Appalachian State at home last week, the Trojans will travel to in-state rival South Alabama and try to bring home a win on Friday, Oct. 24.
The Jaguars currently have a record of 4-2 (3-1 Sun Belt) and are coming off of a hard fought win against Georgia State.
Last year’s matchup between these two teams ended in historic fashion as Troy stole away a victory with a game winning touchdown pass from former quarterback Corey Robinson to former wide receiver Eric Thomas. The final score of that game was 34-33.
South Alabama’s defense has really been a highlight for the Jaguars this year, only allowing about 379 total offensive yards per game while Troy’s opponents are averaging about 469 against Troy.
Although the Jaguars struggled against Georgia State 1-6 (0-4 Sun Belt) last week, South Alabama has played very solid this year.
Troy will have to execute its plays on offense, perform much better on defense and keep the penalties to a minimum to take the victory away from Mobile this week.
The Trojans have had 45 penalties against them this year for a total of 436 yards, but their opponents only have 29 penalties for 237 yards. Penalties have kept Troy out of the end zone this year and have forced them to give the ball away.
“We’ve got to compete better, we’ve got to give them better plans, and we’ve got to coach better,” said head coach Larry Blakeney.
One threat that Troy has over South Alabama is its ability to return kickoffs. The Trojans have become very deadly on kickoffs this year averaging almost 26 yards on every return.
Not to mention senior wide receiver Chandler Worthy who has now returned two kickoffs for touchdowns this season. Worthy will also have to make some big plays on offense to help his team to a win on the road this week.
“The most physical and who wants it more is going to win the game this Friday,” Worthy said.
If the Trojans can come together in all phases of the game, the chances to win as a team this week are much greater.
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