Jacksonville State vs Louisiana Prediction - College Football Picks 12/16/23

Louisiana Preview

The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns are 6-6 (3-5) this year and they finished fifth in the Sun Belt West Division. Louisiana started the season with a 3-1 record, but they finished by losing five of their last eight games. The Ragin’ Cajuns defeated ULM by a score of 52-21 in their last game to get bowl eligible, but they lost their three prior games to Troy, Southern Miss, and Arkansas State. Louisiana also has wins over South Alabama, Texas State, Buffalo, UAB, and Northwestern State. The Louisiana offense is scoring 32.3 points per game with 221.8 passing yards per game and 183.5 rushing yards per game. Chandler Fields has thrown for 914 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions for Louisiana this season. Jacob Kibodi has rushed for 729 yards and seven scores, while Jacob Bernard has caught 37 passes for 473 yards and one touchdown. The Louisiana defense is allowing 28.2 points against per game this season. 

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns Team Facts

• The favorite has won each of Louisiana's last six Bowl games.
• Louisiana has failed to cover the spread in five of its last six Bowl games.
• Louisiana has won the first quarter in each of its last three games against opponents from the Conference USA.
• Louisiana has won the first half in each of its last four games against non-conference opponents at neutral venues.
• Four of Louisiana's last five Bowl games as an underdog have gone UNDER the total points line.

Jacksonville State Gamecocks Team Facts

• Jacksonville State has covered the spread in four of its last five games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• Three of Jacksonville State's last four games against non-AP-ranked teams have gone OVER the total points line.

Jacksonville State vs Louisiana Betting Prediction

Jacksonville State found a ton of success in their first season in the FBS, but they really shouldn’t even be in this bowl game, due to the transition period. The Gamecocks really benefitted from not enough teams getting to six wins, so they were able to get the invite here. Jacksonville State will be very motivated to get the win here and cap off an excellent first season. Louisiana really struggled to end the season, but they were able to get the win in their last game to gain bowl eligibility. I really like how Jacksonville State has played this season and they nearly upset South Carolina a few games ago. Take the Gamecocks to get the win and cover here.