South Alabama vs. Marshall: College Football Betting Preview

The South Alabama Jaguars are set to face the Marshall Thundering Herd on Tuesday, just days after participating in one of the highest-scoring college football games of the season. In Week 6, South Alabama defeated Arkansas State with a final score of 56-49, marking the most points scored in an FBS game in 2026 and extending a streak of four consecutive South Alabama games with at least 66 total points. The Jaguars' games have averaged 73.3 points, leading to an Over/Under of 62.5 for the upcoming contest against Marshall.

Despite their offensive capabilities, South Alabama's defense has been a point of concern. Head coach Major Applewhite's team ranks last in the country in SP+ defensive efficiency and allows an average of 7.2 yards per play, also the worst in the nation. The Jaguars have struggled against even moderately successful offenses, having given up 35 points and 449 yards to Louisiana-Monroe, a team considered one of the weakest in the country.

Marshall's offense may not be dominant, but its statistics are marginally better than those of Arkansas State. However, the Thundering Herd's defense presents significant weaknesses. Marshall is allowing 33.4 points per game (116th nationally), 6.6 yards per play (123rd), and 8.0 yards per pass attempt (100th) through six games. According to SP+, Marshall's defense is ranked 132nd in the country. This suggests South Alabama's offense could find considerable success.

While South Alabama's defensive performance is a concern, their offensive strength is expected to be a key factor against Marshall. The prediction for the game is a same-game parlay favoring South Alabama to cover the spread and the total score to go over 62.5 points, with odds of +264 available on DraftKings. This bet anticipates a high-scoring affair where South Alabama's offense can overcome defensive shortcomings.