Charlotte football vs. JMU first look: Betting odds, key matchup, player to watch

The Charlotte 49ers open head coach Biff Poggi’s second season under the lights Saturday.

New quarterback Max Brown, the redshirt sophomore who started in an SEC rivalry game, leads a revamped offense for the green and gold that includes a strong running back room and receiving corps. The defense, which players said has “got some dawgs,” has new faces alongside returnees like Dontae Balfour.

“I’ve been doing this a long time, and these are as fine of human beings as I’ve ever been around,” Poggi recently said at Charlotte’s media day. “Coaches say, ‘Oh, I love my team’ sometimes, but I love these kids. I love being around these kids. And I’m not so sure I loved being around everybody last year.

“But I love being around these guys. They bring energy to this building.”

The Jerry Richardson Stadium faithful are expected to be dressed in a “Gold Rush” theme for the opener against James Madison on Saturday at 8 p.m. Charlotte football will be wearing alternate gold jerseys and helmets, and athletic director Mike Hill hinted at a brand-new team introduction in a recent interview with The Observer.

Key matchup: Charlotte’s receivers vs. the JMU defense

Redshirt junior Jairus Mack leads the Niners’ strong wide receiver room this season.

Brown has been throwing a good ball throughout training camp — and also uses his legs well, as do his top backs — and will have more weapons. Mack is joined by North Meck graduate Justin Olson, who previously played at UNC and Middle Tennessee, along with returners like Duane Thomas Jr. and Jack Reynolds.

Poggi likes to run the ball, and that’s still the game plan this year, but Charlotte’s new passing game will be something to watch.

Especially against a James Madison defensive front that mostly turned over from last year — defensive back Jacob Thomas is the Dukes’ only returning safety. New head coach Bob Chesney’s squad does have a strong group of returning linebackers, and they could have a good early test against a hungry Charlotte offense.

Player to watch: QB Max Brown

All eyes will be on Brown in his Charlotte 49ers’ debut at Jerry Richardson Stadium on Saturday.

A lifelong baseball player from Oklahoma who started at quarterback for the Florida Gators, Brown has potential to be the best Niners’ signal caller in years. In addition to his agility and deft footwork, the energy, leadership and passion from Brown as a redshirt sophomore are setting the tone in the locker room.

The new-look defense at JMU, which is coming off an 11-2 campaign, provides a good test. While Charlotte’s offense is expected to mostly run the ball, Brown could prove himself as both a rusher and passer on a big stage early.

Vegas betting odds

Most sportsbooks list James Madison as a 6.5-point favorite as of Monday, according to Vegas Insider.

How to watch the Charlotte 49ers’ opener vs. James Madison

Matchup: James Madison Dukes (0-0) at Charlotte 49ers (0-0)

TV: ESPNU

Streaming: ESPN.com

Radio: ESPN 730

Date: Saturday, Aug. 31

Time: 8 p.m.

Place: Jerry Richardson Stadium, UNC Charlotte