Marshall Hosts Coastal Carolina in Emotional ’75 Game: What to Watch For

The Marshall Thundering Herd are set to host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Joan C. Edwards Stadium in Huntington, West Virginia. This matchup, part of the Sun Belt Conference East Division, holds significant emotional weight as it marks the annual ’75 game, honoring the 75 victims of the 1970 Marshall plane crash that occurred on November 14, 1970.

Marshall, with a record of 6-3 and 4-1 in the conference, comes into this game having clinched bowl eligibility for the eighth consecutive season after a 37-3 victory over Southern Mississippi last weekend. Coastal Carolina, standing at 5-4 and 2-3 in the conference, is fresh from a 38-24 win over Appalachian State on November 7.

The Thundering Herd are favored by 8.5 points, with an over/under of 57 points. Marshall’s strong running game, averaging 218.9 yards per game, will be a key factor. Despite the uncertain health of top running back A.J. Turner, Marshall’s backup runners, including Ethan Payne and Jordan Houston, have been effective. The team’s defense also performed impressively in their last outing, limiting Southern Mississippi to just 183 yards and no red zone appearances.

Coastal Carolina, which has won both previous meetings against Marshall, will need to counter Marshall’s robust defense. The Chanticleers average nearly 32 points per game and over 218 yards passing per game, but they struggle defensively, allowing 203.9 rushing yards per contest.

The emotional aspect of the ’75 game adds an extra layer of complexity for Marshall’s coaching staff, who must balance the team’s emotional tribute with the need to maintain focus and avoid a letdown after their recent win streak.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and is scheduled to kick off at 1 p.m. ET.