After a slightly below average 2023 season, App State football fans have reason to be excited as the 2024 season unfolds, featuring a mix of challenging opponents and key matchups. Let’s break down the notable games and rivalries awaiting the Mountaineers this upcoming season.
But first, a recap of the 2023 season for the App State Mountaineers:
- September 2: vs. No. 25 (FCS) Gardner–Webb W 45–24
- September 9: at No. 17 North Carolina L 34–40 (2OT)
- September 16: vs. East Carolina W 43–28
- September 23: at Wyoming L 19–22
- September 30: at Louisiana–Monroe W 41–40
- October 10: vs. Coastal Carolina L 24–27
- October 21: at Old Dominion L 21–28
- October 28: vs. Southern Miss W 48–38
- November 4: vs. Marshall (rivalry) W 31–9
- November 11: at Georgia State W 42–14
- November 18: at James Madison (College GameDay) W 26–23 (OT)
- November 25: vs. Georgia Southern (rivalry) W 55–27
- December 2: at Troy (Sun Belt Championship Game) L 23–49
- December 16: vs. Miami (OH) (Cure Bowl) W 13–9
- Overall Record: 9-5 Sun Belt Conference Record: 6-3
The season opener on August 31st sees App State facing former rival East Tennessee State at Kidd Brewer Stadium. With a historical series advantage, the Mountaineers aim to kick off the season with a solid win.
Following the home opener, App State ventures into hostile territory for consecutive challenges against out of conference opponents. First up is a monumental clash against Clemson on September 7th, marking a rematch from 2015. Is this the year App finally defeats the Tigers? They have the talent and after beating #6 Texas A&M in College Station, it is doable.
Next, App State heads to face East Carolina on September 14th, renewing a rivalry that was re-ignited in 2021. With a fierce determination to uphold their dominance, the Mountaineers set their sights on victory as they clash with the Pirates on their home turf. Last year’s previous meeting in the friendly confines of Kidd Brewer saw App State emerging triumphant with a score of 43-28.
Sun Belt Conference action begins with a Thursday night game against South Alabama on September 19th at home. This early conference matchup sets the tone for the rest of the season.
A non-conference showdown against Liberty on September 28th adds intrigue, especially with former Mountaineer quarterback Ryan Burger returning to Boone.
Transitioning back to conference play, App State faces challenging road games against re-ignited rival Marshall on October 5th and Sun Belt West foe Louisiana on October 12th. These matchups will test the Mountaineers’ resolve as they compete away from home in tough environs.
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Homecoming on October 26th against Georgia State is a highlight, with App State aiming to extend their dominance against the Panthers.
The season intensifies with a Thursday night matchup against Coastal Carolina on November 7th. Coastal Carolina has emerged as a rival in recent years, adding extra significance to this clash.
A final home game against James Madison on November 23rd marks the end of the regular season at Kidd Brewer Stadium. This matchup carries added weight as James Madison becomes a potential rival in the future.
The regular season concludes with a road trip to face Georgia Southern on November 30th. Georgia Southern remains App State’s biggest rival, making this a must-watch finale.
With a mix of tough opponents and budding rivalries, the 2024 season promises excitement and challenges for the Mountaineers. As they aim to build on past successes and solidify their position in the conference, each game presents an opportunity to showcase their talent and determination.
2024 SCHEDULE
Sat., Aug. 31 vs. ETSU
Sat., Sept. 7 at Clemson
Sat., Sept. 14 at East Carolina
Thurs., Sept. 19 vs. South Alabama*
Sat., Sept. 28 vs. Liberty
Sat., Oct. 5 at Marshall*
Sat., Oct. 12 at Louisiana*
Sat., Oct. 26 vs. Georgia State* (Homecoming)
Sat., Nov. 2 vs. Old Dominion*
Thurs., Nov. 7 at Coastal Carolina*
Sat., Nov. 23 vs. James Madison*
Sat., Nov. 30 at Georgia Southern*
Sat., Dec. 7 (Sun Belt Championship Game, Teams TBD)
HOME GAMES IN BOLD
* Denotes Sun Belt Conference game
