2021 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Preview

The Cajuns are seeking the program’s fifth all-time win in the New Orleans Bowl. Entering the match-up, Louisiana is 4-1 in the bowl game. As for Marshall, this is the program’s first appearance in the bowl game. The Herd is coming off back-to-back bowl losses in 2019 and 2020.

Potential Offensive Showdown

This year’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl should be a good one from an offensive standpoint. Louisiana averages just over 30 points and 400 yards per game. The Ragin’ Cajuns offense was prolific in Sun Belt play this season and could put up big numbers in Saturday’s game. One aspect of the offense to keep an eye on is quarterback Levi Lewis. The Senior signal-caller is a solid pocket passer that can air it out and make accurate throws all over the field. Marshall’s defense will have to be on its toes though as Lewis can utilize his legs to scramble outside of the pocket to pick up crucial yards.

For Marshall, the offense is the key to earning the program’s eighth win this season. The Thundering Herd averaged 34 points per game and rank 10th nationally in total offense. Freshman running back Rasheen Ali scored 20 touchdowns on the ground in the regular season. If Marshall is going to be effective on offense, Ali is the key. He is a pivotal runner that can cut upfield in a flash. The Thundering Herd’s front line has to open holes for Ali in the ground game.

Aside from the rushing attack, the passing attack will be crucial to exposing the Lousiana defense. This game could be a shootout from an offensive standpoint. In order for Marshall to keep pace, chunk plays in crucial situations will be a key factor.

How Each Defense Can Contribute to a Win

Entering the game, both defenses have to play at a high level. The Ragin Cajuns must contain Ali’s rushing game early on. Holding him to under four yards per carry could force Marshall to become one-dimensional. On the flip side, the Thundering Herd has to contain Lewis in the pocket and force him to make unwanted throws on the field. Making the Cajuns a one-dimensional offense could create opportunities for the Herd on defense to come away with big-time stops.

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New Orleans Bowl Prediction

Louisiana enters Saturday’s game as a five-point favorite. Given that the Sun Belt champions are 12-1, Marshall is looking to end the season with a big upset. If the Herd can keep up on offense, this could be one of the best bowl games of the year. However, the Cajuns can score quickly and force turnovers on defense. Though Marshall will try for the upset, Louisiana will prevail as the 2021 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl champions with a 34-20 victory.