Game Day Wolf's Claw: Arkansas State at Appalachian State

True confession. Last year, after Appalachian State was bested by Liberty, I didn't think much of the Mountaineers. They were recently elevated to FBS and a new entrant into the Sun Belt. I predicted the usual growing pains, similar to Georgia State. When A-State built an early 20-7 lead on the programs' first meeting, I felt that my assessment had been confirmed.

Nope.

Appalachian State exploited A-State's damaged rush defense and ran to what was then an upset win. Not only was I wrong, but the Mountaineers have yet to lose in the Sun Belt.

This year, more than just the venue has changed. The Mountaineers face a stouter defense, a wiser Fredi Knighten, and stability behind second year head coach Blake Anderson. Will it be enough?

Fredi Will Be Tested Again

This season, A-State plays some of the nation's stingiest defenses: Missouri (3rd), App State (8th), and Toledo (12th). For the Red Wolves to escape with a win in Boone, Fredi Knighten will have to make plays and protect the ball.

Red, White, and Black & Blue

A-State fans hope to see the Red Wolves manhandle Appalachian State wearing the color combo many fans prefer most.

THURSDAY NIGHT ESPNU UNI-SWAG... #BuildingAMonster #BeatApp #Nov5th pic.twitter.com/uVMYPzvOEP

— Blake Anderson (@CHbanderson) November 4, 2015

November Road Trip

Win or lose, A-State doesn't return to cheery Centennial Bank Stadium until December 5th, when the Red Wolves finish the regular season against Texas State.

Tres Houston continues to astound the masses

Georgia State may have given Arkansas State a good half, but Tres Houston illustrated why the Panthers are still short on the elite skills necessary to close out games.

Tonight's clash of ASUs begins at 6:30 CST on ESNU. For a full preview, click here.