Marshall vs. Coastal Carolina Prediction and Game Preview

1. Can Coastal Carolina Get its Rushing Attack on Track?
Coastal Carolina’s rushing attack ranks eighth in the Sun Belt by averaging 171.1 yards a game. However, that statistic doesn’t tell the full story for this offense. The Chanticleers have made the ground game a focal point the last two games, recording 92 combined attempts in wins over ULM and Appalachian State for 532 yards and five scores. A collection of running backs - Ja’Vin Simpkins, Dominic Knicely, and Jevon Edwards - are all likely to see time on Thursday night. But the key to this attack could be quarterback Samari Collier. The senior has played a key role in the two-game winning streak, rushing for 160 yards and three scores on 29 carries.

Collier (17 of 34 for 155 yards) hasn’t posted huge totals through the air, and Coastal Carolina’s passing attack (No. 134 nationally in success rate) has been suspect all year. However, with Collier’s mobility, along with a steady backfield, this group will test a Marshall defense allowing just 3.8 yards per carry and ranking third in the Sun Belt against the run. The Thundering Herd have allowed over six yards a play in all three of their conference matchups this season, so Coastal Carolina should find some room to operate. 

2. Marshall QB Carlos Del Rio-Wilson
After scoring just 27 points in the first two games of 2025, Marshall’s offense has found its rhythm over the last few weeks. Under coordinator Rod Smith, the Thundering Herd have scored at least 40 points in four consecutive games, including 51 in an overtime loss at Louisiana and 48 in a key win over Old Dominion.

Quarterback Carlos Del Rio-Wilson’s play has been a key cog in this unit’s turnaround. The former Syracuse and Florida signal-caller has passed for 1,133 yards and 12 touchdowns to just one pick. Also, he paces the offense with 347 rushing yards and four scores on the ground. Demarcus Lacey (35 catches for 484 yards) has emerged as Rio-Wilson’s top target through the air, while tight end Toby Payne (20 catches) continues to rank among the best in the Sun Belt at his position.

3. Can Coastal Carolina’s Defense Get Stops?
With Marshall’s recent uptick in offensive production, will Coastal Carolina be able to find an answer on defense? Beck’s group gives up 28.3 points a game, 5.7 yards a snap, and ranks No. 100 nationally in defensive success rate. The Chanticleers have struggled against the run (180.3 yards a game allowed), with three opponents recording over 200 yards on the ground.

Rio-Wilson’s ability to make plays on the ground and through the air will test any progress Coastal Carolina’s has made on defense recently. If the Chanticleers are unable to do a better job at winning on early downs and performing better on third downs, Beck’s team will have a hard time slowing down the Thundering Herd.

Final Score Prediction: Marshall 34, Coastal Carolina 27

Both teams are playing better since the start of the 2025 season, and Coastal Carolina’s recent offensive adjustments add intrigue. However, the Thundering Herd have a slight edge on defense. Also, Gibson's team is plus-eight in turnover margin, while the Chanticleers are minus-six entering Thursday night. Marshall will do a better job at getting stops, and Rio-Wilson continues his hot play to help Gibson’s team move one step closer to bowl eligibility. 

ATS: Marshall -6.5
Over/Under: Over 55.5