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As college football’s regular season draws to a close, the Group of Five (G5) conferences are gearing up for a thrilling championship weekend. With several teams vying for a conference title and a shot at a prestigious bowl game, the stakes couldn’t be higher. From Boise State and UNLV’s showdown to the Sun Belt’s final battle, here’s everything you need to know about the most exciting G5 matchups of the weekend, along with predictions, key players to watch, and how these games could shape the future of these programs.
The first big matchup on the radar is the Boise State vs. UNLV game, where both teams are hoping to secure a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). UNLV, coming off a tough loss earlier this season to Boise State, is looking to avenge that defeat and earn its first-ever berth in the CFP.
Key Factors:
UNLV’s Run Game: Jacksonville State is known for its heavy run offense, with Trey Stewart and Tyler Huff dominating the ground game. The Rebels will lean on their strong rushing attack, but the health of quarterback Tyler Huff is crucial. Huff’s ability to execute plays in high-pressure moments is vital for the team to succeed. If he is unavailable, Logan Smothers, though capable, may not be able to handle the big game pressure in quite the same way.
Boise State’s Balanced Attack: Boise State’s offense is more balanced, with a solid passing attack from Kaden Bel Camp and Easton Messer on the outside. The Broncos’ ability to control the game through the air will be tested against the aggressive run-heavy attack of UNLV. In their first encounter, Boise State’s defense stifled UNLV’s rushing game and forced them into unfavorable third-down situations, which may be key to replicating a win in the rematch.
Prediction: Despite UNLV’s grit, Boise State has the upper hand in this matchup, especially if Tyler Huff is unavailable. The Broncos’ defensive and offensive balance should see them through to a hard-fought win.
After a thrilling encounter last week, Western Kentucky and Jacksonville State will face off again for the Conference USA Championship. Western Kentucky’s victory last week was secured by a clutch 50-yard field goal, propelling them into this championship game.
Key Factors:
Jacksonville State’s Run Game: Jacksonville State relies heavily on its ground game, with Trey Stewart and Tyler Huff leading the charge. However, Huff’s health is once again a concern. If he can play, Jacksonville State will be tough to beat. But even without him, Logan Smothers proved that he can step in and perform effectively, evidenced by his solid performance in last week’s win.
Western Kentucky’s Passing Attack: With one of the nation’s top passing offenses, Western Kentucky’s Kaden Bel Camp and Easton Messer will test Jacksonville State’s defense. If they can force Jacksonville State into third-and-long situations, they can dictate the tempo of the game.
Prediction: While both teams are well-coached and tough, Jacksonville State should bounce back from their first-game loss and secure the Conference USA title, especially with Huff expected to be healthy for the rematch.
Once expected to be a high-profile clash between two playoff hopefuls, Tulane vs. Army now feels more like a redemption game for Tulane. After a surprising loss to Memphis, the Green Wave will look to salvage their season and clinch the American Athletic Conference (AAC) title against Army.
Key Factors:
Army’s Triple Option: Known for its brutal ground attack, Army leads the nation in rushing yards per game, with Bryson Dy and Kanye Udo among the key contributors. Tulane’s defense, which ranks 32nd in the country for rush yards allowed, will have its hands full trying to slow down Army’s relentless option attack.
Tulane’s Ground Game: Tulane’s running back Makai Hughes is one of the top rushers in the nation, and will be pivotal in dictating the game’s tempo. However, with both teams playing a similar style of football, the real question will be who can control time of possession.
Tulane’s Defense vs. Army’s Offense: Army’s inability to establish a consistent pass game makes them highly reliant on their run game. If Tulane’s defense can stop Army’s ground game and force them into passing situations, they should have the advantage.
Prediction: Tulane has the edge in talent, especially in their passing game, where Army struggles. With a solid defensive showing and an explosive offense, Tulane will emerge as AAC champions.
In the MAC Championship, a fascinating battle of contrasting styles will unfold between Miami of Ohio and Ohio University. These two teams last met in October, with Miami of Ohio claiming a solid 30-20 win. Now, Ohio, riding a strong wave of momentum, will look to avenge that loss and claim the MAC crown.
Key Factors:
Ohio’s Ground Game: Ohio’s ability to control the clock with their run-heavy offense will be crucial. With Parker Navarro leading the charge, Ohio is one of the nation’s top rushing teams. They rank 12th in the country for rush yards per game, and will rely heavily on this strength in the championship game.
Miami of Ohio’s Balanced Attack: Miami’s offense is more balanced, with quarterback Brett Gabbert leading the charge. However, Ohio’s defense has proven to be tough against the run, and Miami will need to balance their offense while containing Ohio’s ground game.
Ohio’s Key Players: Parker Navarro’s ability to create big plays with his legs and control the game will be key. Keon Mosley, who has over 1,000 rushing yards this season, will also need to step up for Miami and make plays on the ground.
Prediction: Despite Ohio’s strong ground game, Miami of Ohio will be able to capitalize on their explosive passing attack and take home the MAC title once again.
The Sun Belt Championship features two teams that love to run the ball: Louisiana and Marshall. Both teams have ground games that rank in the top 32 in the country, but neither defense has been particularly strong against the run. This sets up what could be an explosive, back-and-forth battle between the two programs.
Key Factors:
Marshall’s Quarterback Run Game: Brillan Braxton has been a huge factor in Marshall’s turnaround, taking over at quarterback and leading them to a six-game winning streak. Braxton’s dual-threat ability gives Marshall a dangerous edge in the running game, but he will need to avoid mistakes against a disciplined Louisiana defense.
Louisiana’s Passing Attack: Louisiana’s Lance Leon has been a standout performer this season, with over 700 receiving yards and six touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field will be crucial in opening up lanes for the running game.
Prediction: While Louisiana is talented, Marshall’s explosive offense and more effective ground game will give them the edge in this Sun Belt showdown. Expect a tight, physical contest, but Marshall’s overall balance should carry them to victory.
This weekend’s G5 championship games are sure to be thrilling, with each conference title up for grabs. From Boise State and UNLV fighting for a spot in the CFP to the intense battles in the MAC, Sun Belt, and Conference USA, college football fans are in for a treat. The results of these games will have major implications for the future of each program, as these schools look to build momentum heading into the 2025 season.
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