Austin Peay football vs Jacksonville State: Scouting report, prediction

Austin Peay football's season begins now. The Govs are coming off their second open week in the past three weeks. They play former OVC rival Jacksonville State on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Fortera Stadium. It's the first of three straight ASUN games for the Gov's (5-2, 1-1 ASN). They need to win all three to have a legitimate chance at a FCS playoff berth.

Jacksonville State has three ASUN games remaining. The Gamecocks are a member of the FCS and will transition to FBS next year. They have the third-ranked rushing attack in the nation. Their 244.6 yards per game is sixth in nation and 25 touchdowns ranks third.

Austin Peay football faces Jacksonville State. The Govs beat the Gamecocks twice in the past. APSU won the game in 2019. Austin Pey has played a ranked FCS opponent twice this season. The team is ranked fifth in rushing defense and fourth in overall defense.

Austin Peay is playing Jacksonville State in the first game of the season. The Govs are projected to be outside the playoff field. Stephen F. Austin and Abiliene Christian are both 2-0 in WAC play.

Kam Thomas returned a kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown against Murray State.

Antoine Williams recorded nine tackles, a sack and tied a school record with four tackles for a loss against the Racers.

Mike DiLiello had his second 300-yard passing performance of the season against Murray State and threw three TDs.

Matt LaRoche is second on the team with 449 yards rushing. He leads theteam with a 5.4-yard per carry average.

Sterling Galban leads Jacksonville with 368 yards receiving. He has 22 receptions.

Austin Peay football faces Jacksonville State. Yul Gowdy has an interception and two pass breakups this season.

Jacksonville State will beat Austin Peay 28-20 at Fortera Stadium.

Jacksonville State plays Austin Peay on ESPN+.