JONESBORO, Ark. — South Alabama brings a lengthy injury list to Jonesboro for Saturday’s game against defending Sun Belt Conference co-champion Arkansas State, with the Jaguars one win away from bowl eligibility.
The game is South Alabama’s next-to-last Sun Belt contest of the season. While one more win would make the Jaguars bowl eligible, the coaching staff has said it wants at least two more victories to feel comfortable about a postseason invitation.
Bridge a Game-Time Decision
Quarterback Brandon Bridge is a game-time decision after injuries in each of the last two games. He suffered an AC joint injury to his non-throwing shoulder against Troy that forced him out shortly before halftime, though he returned in the second half. Last week against Louisiana-Lafayette, he injured his right ankle in the third quarter and did not return.
Tight end Wes Saxton, who sprained his left ankle against Troy and played only briefly against the Cajuns, is questionable and also a game-time decision. Center Joseph Scelfo reinjured his right ankle against Louisiana-Lafayette but finished the game; he has not practiced this week but is listed as probable.
Offensive lineman Clay Machen is expected to play after missing time with a lower back injury. Left guard Drew Dearman, who sustained a concussion against the Cajuns, has not been cleared under the concussion protocol and is listed as doubtful.
Defensive Absences
Linebacker Maleki Harris, the team’s second-leading tackler, will miss the game with a knee injury. Harris has 50 tackles, five tackles for loss, five pass breakups, three forced fumbles, an interception and a fumble recovery this season.
Cornerback Qudarius Ford is a game-time decision with a right knee injury. He has not practiced this week and missed a game earlier this season with a concussion. Ford has 27 tackles and five pass breakups.
Scouting Arkansas State
Arkansas State receiver J.D. McKissic is questionable. McKissic leads the Red Wolves with 43 catches for 512 yards, averaging 64 receiving yards per game. Tres Houston and Dijon Paschal are among the receivers who would see more work if he cannot play.
Junior running back Michael Gordon leads Arkansas State with 680 rushing yards on 79 carries. Gordon tied the Sun Belt record for rushing touchdowns in a game with five against Idaho. Quarterback Fredi Knighten is second on the team with 467 rushing yards on 138 attempts.
Freshman defensive end Ja’Von Rolland-Jones was named Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Week after recording five tackles for loss and four sacks against Idaho. He and Chris Stone start at defensive end for the Red Wolves.
Arkansas State forced eight turnovers against Idaho last week but struggled to put the Vandals away.
Line
Arkansas State is a 3.5-point favorite at home.
