Free Daily NCAA Lock Pick, Tuesday October 10th: Coastal Carolina vs Appalachian State 7:30pmET
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The highly anticipated college football clash between the West Virginia Mountaineers and the Houston Cougars takes place on October 12, from TDECU Stadium. With both teams showcasing some firepower and resiliency on both ends, this game is poised to be one of the best in the Big 12 on the weekend. West Virginia hits the road at 4-1, while Houston sits at 2-3, setting the stage for a crucial showdown. Given the familiarity between coaching staffs, though a lack of history on the field, this one could certainly go either way.
West Virginia was expected to be one of the worst teams in the Big 12 this season but suddenly, they look poised to make a run towards the top of the conference. They've already taken down TCU on the road, which expected to be one of their most challenging opponents, while they avoid Texas on the schedule as well. The margin for error is razor thin though and they can't afford to lose to Houston, even on the road. The wins haven't come easy this season though, winning their two Big 12 games by a combined ten points. Having to hit the road for the second-straight game is bound to be a challenge but as this group continues to grow in confidence and momentum, they should expect the wins to come along too. They make their return home for a pair of games after this one and they know that getting through this one will set the tone for a strong second-half.
West Virginia has three injuri es that they continue to navigate, with all three coming on the defensive side of things. Aubrey Burks (neck) is out for the season and will be missed in the secondary, especially considering Keyshawn Cobb is also out in the secondary. Add in linebacker Trey Lathan (ankle) having been ruled out too and the defensive concerns continue to mount.
The Mountaineers have leaned heavily on the ground game to lead the way this season. Ranked ninth nationally in rushing attempts per game and 32nd in rushing yards per game, their ability to control the clock has led to quite a bit of their success. Garrett Green (4 touchdowns, 0 interceptions) has led the way and even though he isn't putting up wild numbers, he's done enough to take care of the ball. The real engine within this offense is CJ Donaldson Jr., who leads the way at running back. Defensively, the secondary has been things difficult for their opponents, which will certainly come in handy in this one. L ee Kpogba (40 tackles) has become one of the most dynamic linebackers in the Big 12 and given the depth concerns on that side of the ball, will be counted on to lead the way.
Free Daily NCAA Lock Pick, Tuesday October 10th: Coastal Carolina vs Appalachian State 7:30pmET CLICK TO SEE PICK NOW