Sun Belt - Appalachian State Mountaineers
Sun Belt Championship Odds: +270
Odds to Make CFP: +1400
Shawn Clark is ready to lead the Appalachian State Mountaineers to their ninth bowl game in 11 years since joining the FBS ranks and their first Sun Belt Championship since 2019. He has the personnel to make the jump and the betting odds in his favor.
The Mountaineers, led by senior quarterback Joey Aguilar, enter the 2024 campaign as the odds-on favorites to claim their first conference championship under Clark. Aguilar's job will be made easier by the return of his entire receiving corps from last season. Kaedin Robinson was the best of the bunch, going off for 905 yards and ten scores.
Nate Noel may have departed for greener pastures, but Kanye Roberts can fill in as the lead-back. Roberts outpaced Noel in yards per carry and touchdowns and will benefit from the increased touches.
Appalachian State will force Sun Belt teams to keep pace with them, and few can. They are the rightful claim to the top spot in the conference power rankings to open the season.
