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Game Preview: #9 Marshall (11-2) vs. #12 Coastal Carolina (11-2)

Kickoff Time: 8:30 PM EST
Location: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada
Broadcast: ESPN

Introduction

The second semifinal matchup pits the #9 Marshall Thundering Herd against the #12 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers in what promises to be another high-scoring thriller. Marshall advanced after an incredible offensive performance in their 65-48 victory over #3 Boise State, while Coastal Carolina outlasted #2 Tulane in a 56-52 shootout.

Both teams boast explosive offenses and capable quarterbacks, making this matchup one to watch. The key question is which defense will step up and deliver the crucial stops needed to punch their ticket to the championship game.

Team Overviews

Marshall Thundering Herd (11-2)
• Head Coach: Charles Huff
• Offense: 36.7 points per game (17th nationally)
• Defense: 24.4 points allowed per game (38th nationally)
• Key Players:
• QB Cam Fancher: 3,000 passing yards, 24 TDs, 7 INTs
• RB Rasheen Ali: 1,700 rushing yards, 20 TDs
• WR Charles Montgomery: 1,000 receiving yards, 9 TDs
• DE Owen Porter: 15 sacks, 4 forced fumbles

Marshall’s offense is built around running back Rasheen Ali, who has been one of the most consistent and explosive players in the playoff. Quarterback Cam Fancher stepped up in their shootout win over Boise State, showing poise and accuracy under pressure.

Defensively, Marshall’s front seven is led by Owen Porter, a relentless pass rusher who has been disruptive all season. However, their secondary struggled against Boise’s passing game, and they’ll need to tighten up against Coastal Carolina’s dynamic quarterback.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (11-2)
• Head Coach: Tim Beck
• Offense: 40.1 points per game (7th nationally)
• Defense: 29.2 points allowed per game (70th nationally)
• Key Players:
• QB Grayson McCall: 4,100 passing yards, 38 TDs, 6 INTs
• RB Reese White: 1,100 rushing yards, 12 TDs
• WR Sam Pinckney: 1,300 receiving yards, 14 TDs
• LB Josaiah Stewart: 10 sacks, 80 tackles

The Chanticleers have one of the most exciting offenses in the country, led by three-time Sun Belt Player of the Year Grayson McCall. McCall’s ability to extend plays and connect with his talented receiving corps, particularly Sam Pinckney, makes Coastal a nightmare to defend.

Defensively, Coastal Carolina has struggled, especially against the run. Their front seven will face a huge challenge in trying to contain Rasheen Ali and Marshall’s physical rushing attack.

Key Matchups

1. Rasheen Ali vs. Coastal Carolina’s Run Defense
• Marshall Advantage: Ali is the heart and soul of Marshall’s offense, and Coastal Carolina’s 100th-ranked run defense will have a hard time slowing him down.

2. Grayson McCall vs. Marshall’s Secondary
• Coastal Advantage: McCall is one of the most accurate quarterbacks in college football, and Marshall’s secondary was torched by Boise State last week. If McCall has time in the pocket, he’ll pick them apart.

3. Time of Possession
• Marshall will look to control the clock with their run game, while Coastal will try to push the tempo with their quick-strike offense. The team that dictates the pace will likely have the edge.

Keys to the Game

Marshall Thundering Herd
1. Feed Rasheen Ali: Ali needs to have a monster game to keep Coastal’s offense off the field.
2. Pressure McCall: Owen Porter and the defensive line must disrupt Coastal’s passing game.
3. Limit Penalties: Discipline will be critical in a game where every possession matters.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers
1. Start Fast: Coastal’s offense thrives on momentum, and an early lead would force Marshall to play from behind.
2. Contain Ali: Stopping or at least slowing Rasheen Ali is essential to Coastal’s chances.
3. Win Third Down Battles: Sustaining drives and keeping Marshall’s offense off the field will be key.

Prediction:

Coastal Carolina 48, Marshall 45
• This game will be a back-and-forth shootout, with both offenses trading big plays. Grayson McCall’s ability to make clutch throws and extend plays will prove to