Article by: Robbie Kan, Contributing Writer, Photo obtained from ESPN
After defeating Arkansas State 56-49 in the highest-scoring FBS game so far in the 2026 football season, many people expected the matchup against Marshall to be a shootout as well. Coming into the game, Marshall allowed the 131st most yards per game out of the 138 teams in the FBS, placing them among the worst defenses in the country. Surprisingly, the Jaguars found themselves in a defensive battle, with neither team able to find offensive rhythm for most of the game. The Jaguars’ offense struggled for most of the night, managing only 326 total offensive yards, which was the lowest total of the season.
Jared Hollins also struggled, completing only 12 of 33 passes for 148 yards for one interception and zero touchdowns. While a fair number of passes were dropped, Hollins played very poorly with multiple balls thrown into the ground and miscommunications. Even though the Jags did gain178 yards on the ground, 78 of them came on the second-to-last drive, making the overall rushing production less indicative of its performance for most of the night.
Despite the offensive struggles, the defense was able to keep the Jaguars in the game. Although the Jaguars ranked 126th in the FBS for yards allowed, the Jaguars were able to force Marshall to punt multiple times and settle for field goals. While the defense played well for most of the game, South had no answer for dual-threat quarterback Khalil Wilkins, who entered the game after the starter for the night, Zion Turner, was injured. With the game tied 13-13, Wilkins drove Marshall down the field, using his legs to exploit the Jags’ defense, which helped Marshall quickly find the end zone to give Marshall a 20-13 lead with 1:49 remaining. Unfortunately, the Jaguars were not able to respond, which was a recurring theme of the night. The Jags were able to get about 20 yards down the field before the drive stalled, and ultimately Hollins threw a pass into the dirt on fourth-and-five, which was reminiscent of the struggles South suffered for most of the game.
