previewed five of these opening contests earlier this summer. So, my blog this week will focus on brief predictions of the full-slate of GSC games for this opening weekend of play.

Thursday, September 1st

Kentucky Wesleyan @ Delta StateMy pick: Statesmen by 14
#8 North Alabama @ #3 [FCS] Jacksonville StateMy pick: Gamecocks by 10
West Alabama @ North Greenville (7 PM EST)

NGU starts to incrementally play Gulf South teams this season as part of their transition as an affiliate member and start by hosting UWA. The Tigers filled several holes in the off-season, including an upperclassmen transfer in at quarterback, but will face a Crusaders squad that returns 19 starters. Personally, I feel this is one the toss-up games of the week. With several newcomers in key positions for UWA, I think NGU will have the advantage with a veteran squad and get the early-season victory on their home field.

My pick: Crusaders by 7
Shorter @ #6 [FCS] Chattanoogard Quarter to give reps to other players.

My pick: Mocs by 21

Saturday, September 3rd

West Florida @ Ave MariaMy pick: Argonauts by 7
Catawba @ #2 West Georgia My pick: Wolves by 14
Point @ Mississippi College (2 PM CST)

The Choctaws open the season by hosting Point University (GA) from the NAIA. The Skyhawks played a game last week and got throttled by a ranked NAIA foe, Reinhardt University (GA), 55-2. MC should be able to use this game as a fall scrimmage and play almost all of their players to get them some in-game experience. A victory to start the year is just what the doctor ordered in Clinton.

My pick: Choctaws by 28
Florida Tech @ NewberryMy pick: Panthers by 13

Albany State @ #23 Valdosta StateMy pick: Blazers by 10