VMI vs. William & Mary Odds & Betting Predictions - August 29, 2024

Follow On X: https://x.com/PicksOffice VMI's 2023 season was a mixed bag, where they managed to scrape together a 5-6 record, including a notable upset against Western Carolina. However, much of their success was against weaker teams, and this year, they face significant challenges. The Keydets lost key players, including quarterback Collin Ironside and their top three receivers, leaving their offense in a precarious position. The offensive line, which allowed 35 sacks last year, remains a major concern, especially with an inexperienced quarterback stepping in. This weakness in pass protection is likely to be exploited by a William & Mary defense eager to improve upon a disappointing 2023 campaign. While VMI's defense retains some stability with seven returning starters, particularly in the front seven, their secondary remains a glaring weakness. This lack of depth and experience in the defensive backfield could be catastrophic against a William & Mary offense that, when healthy, has proven to be explosive. The Tribe's struggles last season were largely due to injuries, particularly to key offensive players like running back Bronson Yoder and their quarterbacks. With those players now healthy, the Tribe is poised to return to their 2022 form, where they averaged an impressive 35 points and 489 yards per game. William & Mary’s defense, although it returns only four starters, still possesses enough talent to handle a VMI offense in transition. With the Keydets facing significant turnover in key positions, they will likely struggle to find their footing early in the season. William & Mary, motivated to rebound after missing the playoffs last year, should capitalize on VMI's vulnerabilities, particularly their inexperienced quarterback and shaky offensive line.