Hide Your Kids, Hide Your Wives: Texas State Prepares for Arkansas State

#22 UNLV (2-1) vs. New Mexico (1-2):

Final Score: UNLV 68, New Mexico 44

Recap: UNLV opened their Mountain West conference play with a high-scoring win, defeating New Mexico 68-44 in a game that saw Santi Melendez solidify his place as one of the nation's top young quarterbacks. Melendez threw for a jaw-dropping 636 yards and 8 touchdowns, though he added 2 interceptions to his stat line. He also contributed on the ground, rushing for 80 yards and another touchdown, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.

Corey Thompson Jr. led the receiving corps with 5 catches for 172 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Jai'den Thomas added 126 yards and 2 touchdowns on 5 receptions. UNLV’s offense was clicking on all cylinders, and despite a high-scoring effort from New Mexico, the Rebels remained in control throughout the game.

Betting Recap: UNLV entered as 14.5-point favorites and easily covered the spread. The over/under was set at 74.5, and the total of 112 points obliterated that line. Melendez’s passing yardage and touchdown prop bets were exceeded by miles, making it a huge day for bettors who backed the young QB.

Next Game: UNLV will travel to Colorado State next week, looking to build on their conference-opening win.

Utah State (2-2) vs. Hawai'i (0-4):

Final Score: Hawai'i 23, Utah State 20

Recap: In what can only be described as a tough-to-watch performance, Utah State dropped a winnable game to winless Hawai'i, losing 23-20. The loss drops Utah State to 0-1 in Mountain West conference play, but one has to ask—does any of this actually matter? With the lowest game attendance and TV viewership in the nation, the question isn’t how Utah State performs, but if anyone is even paying attention.

Players like Bryson Barnes and Otto Tia, who we’ve highlighted in previous weeks, continue to be underappreciated, with their efforts seemingly going unnoticed by both fans and scouts alike. Rumors have even surfaced that several players are contemplating returning to their missions, just to get away from the sinking ship that is Utah State football.

Betting Recap: Utah State was favored by 7.5 points, and this loss not only dashed hopes of covering the spread but also left anyone who backed the Aggies in disarray. The over/under was set at 50.5, and the final total of 43 fell under. Utah State’s inability to produce offensively continues to be a major red flag for bettors.

Next Game: Utah State will look to bounce back next week as they take on San Jose State in another Mountain West matchup.

Coastal Carolina (3-0) vs. Southern Miss (2-2):

Final Score: Coastal Carolina 79, Southern Miss 27

Recap: Coastal Carolina put up eye-popping numbers in their blowout win over Southern Miss, winning 79-27. Quarterback Ethan Vasko continues to show his ability to throw touchdowns, and, unfortunately, interceptions. Vasko finished the game with 510 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions, a performance that looks great on paper but raises eyebrows with his turnovers.

Christian Washington added 187 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 25 carries, while freshman Matt Sauer continues to emerge as a major receiving threat, recording 8 catches for 178 yards and 3 touchdowns. Cane Berrong also contributed with 141 receiving yards and a touchdown.

While the stats are impressive, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that Coastal Carolina seemingly kicked onside kicks the entire game, adding fuel to the fire that these numbers might be inflated. One anonymous Sun Belt coach had harsh words for Coastal head coach Jacob, calling the tactics "poor sportsmanship" and "damaging to the league." This sentiment seems to be growing as Coastal continues to pile on numbers in what many view as unnecessary fashion.

Betting Recap: Coastal Carolina easily covered the 17.5-point spread, and with the over/under set at 68.5, the total of 106 points absolutely shattered that line. Prop bets on Ethan Vasko’s touchdowns (set at 3.5) and interceptions (1.5) were both hit. However, questions are now being raised about the integrity of Coastal’s approach, particularly in padding stats with relentless onside kicks.

Next Game: Coastal Carolina will face Marshall next week as they look to remain undefeated, but the criticism surrounding their tactics is only growing louder.

Texas State (1-3) vs. Georgia Southern (1-2):

Final Score: Georgia Southern 14, Texas State 9

Recap: Not much to say about this one. Texas State dropped to 1-3 on the season and 0-2 in Sun Belt play with a 14-9 loss to Georgia Southern in a game that was as dull as the score suggests. Torrance Burgess Jr. was once again the lone bright spot for the Bobcats, rushing for 144 yards, while senior kicker Mason Shipley accounted for all of Texas State’s points, going 3 for 4 on field goals with a long of 41 yards.

Unfortunately for Texas State, their offense continues to sputter, unable to find the end zone. Next week’s matchup against Arkansas State could get ugly fast, as the Bobcats seem completely outmatched. Hide your kids, hide your wives—this one could be rough.

Betting Recap: Texas State came in as 7.5-point underdogs and barely managed to cover the spread, though that’s hardly a consolation prize. The over/under was set at 48.5, and the final total of 23 points never even came close to hitting the over.

Next Game: Texas State will face Arkansas State next week, where they’ll need a miracle to avoid a blowout loss.

USF (3-1) vs. Kentucky (2-2):

Final Score: Kentucky 30, USF 23

Recap: USF fought hard in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 points in a late rally, but they couldn’t get the key stop they needed to tie the game, falling to Kentucky 30-23. Byrum Brown had another rough day under center, throwing for 420 yards but tossing 4 costly interceptions that stunted the Bulls' offensive momentum. The USF rushing game was non-existent, as the Bulls only managed 9 yards on the ground.

Jayquan Smith was the bright spot for the USF offense, with 11 catches for 220 yards and 1 touchdown, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Kentucky’s defense. The lack of balance in the Bulls' offensive attack is becoming a growing concern as they now look to regroup during their bye week.

Betting Recap: Kentucky was favored by 10.5 points, but USF’s late surge helped them cover the spread. The over/under was set at 58, and the combined 53 points came in under the total. Prop bets for Byrum Brown’s passing yards (over/under 280.5) were blown past, though his interceptions (set at 1.5) hit the over as well.

Next Game: USF will have a bye in Week 7 to try and work out their offensive issues.

Troy (3-2) vs. Fresno State (1-2):

Final Score: Troy 43, Fresno State 24

Recap: After a rough start to the season, Troy has turned things around in a big way. Their 43-24 win over Fresno State marks their third straight victory, and Coach Khail has officially removed himself from the hot seat. With the program now trending upwards, Troy is positioned to make some noise in the Sun Belt, though their remaining schedule won’t make it easy.

Tucker Kilcrease continued his strong play, throwing for 410 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions while adding 42 yards on the ground. Damien Taylor only rushed for 30 yards but made them count with 2 touchdowns, proving his red zone efficiency. Peyton Higgins led the receiving corps with 11 receptions for 142 yards, while Devonte Ross added 7 catches for 125 yards and 1 touchdown.

In a statistical oddity, Troy’s passing attack finished with 3 passing touchdowns, yet somehow 4 different receivers found the end zone. We’ll have to go back and review the tape on this one.

Betting Recap: Troy entered as 3.5-point underdogs but comfortably won, covering the spread with ease. The over/under was set at 56, and the combined 67 points cleared that total. Kilcrease’s passing yardage easily surpassed the 300.5-yard prop bet, though his interceptions (set at 0.5) hit the over.

Next Game: Troy will face Georgia Southern next week as they continue their Sun Belt campaign. With momentum on their side, this game will be critical for keeping their season on track.

#13 South Alabama (4-0) vs. UL Monroe (1-4):

Final Score: South Alabama 50, UL Monroe 17

Recap: South Alabama’s offense continues to roll, this time putting up 50 points in a commanding win over UL Monroe. Bishop Davenport led the charge with 440 passing yards, 4 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions, completing 84% of his passes. Anthony Eager remains a big play threat, hauling in 14 receptions for 190 yards, including an eye-popping 166 yards after catch, and a touchdown.

USA spread the wealth offensively, with three receivers going over 90 yards. On the offensive line, junior center Malachi Preciado added 12 pancakes to his name, putting his 310-pound frame to work in protecting the pocket. On the defensive side, Ricky Fletcher continued his ball-hawking ways with 3 interceptions, further solidifying his place as one of the most dangerous defenders in the Sun Belt.

Betting Recap: South Alabama was favored by 24.5 points and easily covered the spread. The over/under was set at 62.5, and the final total of 67 points hit the over. Davenport’s passing yard prop (set at 320.5) was blown past, while his 2 interceptions also hit the over.

Next Game: South Alabama will travel to App State next week as they continue their quest for an undefeated season.

Week 7 Power Rankings:

1. South Alabama (5-0)Another dominant performance keeps South Alabama firmly at the top. Their offense is explosive, and the defense continues to produce takeaways.

   
   

2. Arkansas State (4-0)With a bye week to rest, Arkansas State remains undefeated. Jaylen Raynor continues to be the heart of the team, though turnovers remain a concern.

   
   

3. Coastal Carolina (4-0)Coastal Carolina’s high-powered offense, led by Ethan Vasko, keeps them climbing. They remain unbeaten, but their aggressive tactics have raised eyebrows around the league.

   
   

4. UNLV (3-1)Santiago Melendez continues to light up defenses. UNLV’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and if Santi keeps improving, the Rebels could be a real force in the Mountain West.

   
   

5. ECU (3-1)ECU’s strength of schedule is still a concern, but their consistent play has earned them a spot in the top 5. Their real tests are still to come.

   
   

6. Troy (3-2)Troy has removed themselves from a shaky start to the season, and Coach Khail’s team is gaining momentum. They’re now positioned to make some noise in Sun Belt play.

   
   

7. UNT (3-1)UNT had a bye week, but their offensive firepower remains undeniable. General Booty will need to clean up his turnover issues, but the Mean Green still have plenty of potential.

   
   

8. USF (3-2)USF came up short against Kentucky in a close game. Byrum Brown’s inconsistency at quarterback is concerning, but they remain competitive and have the talent to bounce back.

   
   

9. Wyoming (3-2)Wyoming’s tough schedule has been a challenge, but they are staying competitive. Tyler King and Evan Svoboda continue to lead the way, though turnovers and inconsistency have kept them from climbing higher.

   
   

10. Tulane (2-2)Despite some impressive individual performances, Tulane has been inconsistent. Their loss to FSU set them back, and they will need to clean up their mistakes to get back on track.

    
    

11. Texas State (1-3)Texas State continues to struggle offensively, and their loss to Georgia Southern highlights the growing problems. Torrance Burgess Jr. remains their lone bright spot.

    
    

12. Nevada (1-3)Nevada has fought hard in every game, but they are just a few plays away from having a much better record. If the ball starts bouncing their way, they could make a push for a bowl.

    
    

13. Utah State (2-3)Utah State’s loss to Hawai'i drops them to the bottom of the rankings. The program seems to be in turmoil, with players rumored to be considering leaving for their missions just to get away from the team.

Week 7 Preview:

#14 ECU (3-1) vs. Tulsa (2-3)

Spread: ECU -10.5O/U: 56.5

Prediction: ECU has looked solid, but Tulsa could be scrappy. Expect ECU to cover the spread as they continue to build momentum.

Pick: ECU 38, Tulsa 21

#23 UNT (3-1) at Army (2-2)

Spread: UNT -7.5O/U: 53.0

Prediction: UNT’s explosive offense should overpower Army, though General Booty’s turnover issues could keep it closer than expected. UNT will still come away with the win.

Pick: UNT 42, Army 28

#22 Tulane (2-2) vs. UAB (1-3)

Spread: Tulane -14.0O/U: 59.5

Prediction: Tulane will look to bounce back from recent struggles, and UAB’s defense won’t be able to stop Ty Thompson and Mario Williams. Expect a dominant showing from the Green Wave.

Pick: Tulane 45, UAB 17

Wyoming (3-2) at Fresno State (1-2)

Spread: Wyoming -3.0O/U: 52.5

Prediction: Wyoming’s offense has been impressive, and they’ll look to carry that momentum against Fresno State. This could be close, but Wyoming’s firepower should be the difference.

Pick: Wyoming 35, Fresno State 27

Utah State (2-3) vs. San Jose State (1-3)

Spread: San Jose State -2.5O/U: 48.0

Prediction: Utah State’s season continues to spiral, and San Jose State will take advantage. Utah State’s struggles on both sides of the ball will likely result in another loss.

Pick: San Jose State 24, Utah State 17

#20 UNLV (3-1) at Colorado State (2-2)

Spread: UNLV -13.5O/U: 60.5

Prediction: Santiago Melendez has been on fire, and Colorado State’s defense won’t be able to slow him down. Expect a comfortable win for UNLV as they continue to climb the rankings.

Pick: UNLV 45, Colorado State 24

Nevada (1-3) vs. San Diego State (2-2)

Spread: San Diego State -6.5O/U: 51.0

Prediction: Nevada’s defense has been inconsistent, and while they’ll keep it close, San Diego State should come away with a win.

Pick: San Diego State 27, Nevada 20

Texas State (1-3) at #10 Arkansas State (4-0)

Spread: Arkansas State -24.0O/U: 58.0

Prediction: Arkansas State should have no trouble in this one, with Jaylen Raynor leading the charge. Texas State’s offense will struggle to keep up.

Pick: Arkansas State 48, Texas State 14

Coastal Carolina (4-0) vs. Marshall (2-2)

Spread: Coastal Carolina -9.5O/U: 54.5

Prediction: Coastal Carolina’s offense is too powerful for Marshall to handle. Expect Ethan Vasko and Christian Washington to lead the way in another big win.

Pick: Coastal Carolina 38, Marshall 20

Troy (3-2) at Georgia Southern (2-2)

Spread: Troy -4.0O/U: 55.5

Prediction: Troy has turned things around, and Georgia Southern won’t be able to slow down Tucker Kilcrease. Expect Troy to cover the spread and continue their hot streak.

Pick: Troy 31, Georgia Southern 21

#11 South Alabama (5-0) at App State (2-2)

Spread: South Alabama -12.5O/U: 57.0

Prediction: South Alabama’s offense is rolling, and App State won’t be able to stop Bishop Davenport. The Jaguars should control this game from start to finish.

Pick: South Alabama 41, App State 20