AT NORTH TEXAS (SEPT. 20)
North Texas is the only FBS opponent for Nicholls that finished with a winning record (9-4) and won a bowl game last season. The Mean Green defeated UNLV, 36-14, in the Heart of Dallas Bowl.
North Texas hasn't had back-to-back winning seasons since the 2003-04 seasons. The Mean Green will try to accomplish that feat with just four starters returning on offense and having lost six starters from the defensive front seven. However, the four returning offensive starters are along the Mean Green's offensive line which can help overcome inexperience within the skill players.
With games against Texas, SMU and Louisiana Tech to start the season, North Texas is looking at Nicholls as its sacrificial lamb after three competitive games.
After three weeks into the season, neither Nicholls nor North Texas will have anything to hide and both could be dealing with injuries after three anticipated physical games which could make for an interesting matchup.
My odds on Nicholls beating North Texas: 25-1.
Read more: http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20140618/OPINION01/140619543/1178/sports?p=3&tc=pg