New Orleans Bowl Prediction: South Alabama's Standout Defense Meets Western Kentucky's High-Powered Offense

South Alabama and Western Kentucky meet in the New Orleans Bowl on Wednesday. The Sun Belt has won five straight games against Conference USA teams. Western Ky. went 9-5 last season and won at least 8 games in three of four years under coach Tyson Helton. South Ky., on the other hand, went 10-2 last year and lost by one to UCLA and four to Troy. They played each other once before, with the Jaguars winning 31-24 in 2013.

Western Kentucky (8-5) and South Alabama (10-2) are going to play in the New Orleans Bowl.

Western Kentucky and South Alabama are playing in the pre-Christmas bowl. Western Kentucky's offense averages 35.8 points a game, while SouthAlabama's defense limits teams to 19.4. Quarterback Austin Reed is expected to play on Wednesday night. Southaun's defensive unit is led by all-conference picks Darrell Luther Jr. and Yam Banks. The Jaguars have allowed just 14 sacks this season, but have registered 28. Southuna's offensive line has two starters, left tackle Gunner Britton and center Rusty Staats. Kye Robichaux is the team's leading rusher, with 4,496 yards.

South Alabama went 10-2 this season thanks to the addition of quarterback Carter Bradley and running back La’Damian Webb. Western Kentucky finished second in Conference USA in pass efficiency defense. Kahlef Hailassie and Talique Allen entered the NFL draft. The Hilltoppers held opponents to 23.5 points a game and paced C-USA in the fewest yards per play allowed (5.24). Western Kyke's defense has 30 forced turnovers. The team that can take the ball back to Reed is a winning formula.

South Alabama's defense has been a standout all year. Western Kentucky's high-powered offense will be able to score some points. The Hilltoppers will win the game. It will also be Western's first bowl victory and 11th win of the season.

New Orleans Bowl Prediction: South Alabama's Standout Defense Meets Western Kentucky's High-Powered Offense.