Kickoff 2024: ETSU Set To Host Cougars

Preview: Cougars Open 2024 Football Season Against ETSU

Cougars Prepare for Home Opener vs. Buccaneers on August 31st

Football season is back, and this year, the Cougars are kicking off their 2024 campaign with a home opener against ETSU on August 31st. The Buccaneers are coming off a successful 2023 season, and will provide a tough test for the Cougars in their first game of the year.

The Cougars are led by head coach Clay Helton, who is entering his second season at the helm. Helton has a proven track record of success, having won a national championship at USC in 2016. He will look to lead the Cougars to their first bowl game since 2019.

The Cougars return a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback Cameron Ward and running back Logan Bonner. Ward threw for over 4,000 yards and 41 touchdowns last season, while Bonner rushed for over 1,200 yards and 17 touchdowns. The Cougars also have a number of talented newcomers, including wide receiver Jaleel Skinner and defensive end Jeremiah Alexander.

The Buccaneers are led by head coach George Quarles, who is entering his third season at the helm. Quarles has led the Buccaneers to two straight winning seasons, and will look to continue that success in 2024. The Buccaneers return a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback Tyler Riddell and running back Jacob Saylors. Riddell threw for over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, while Saylors rushed for over 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns.

The Cougars and Buccaneers have met twice before, with the Cougars winning both games. The most recent meeting was in 2021, when the Cougars won 38-24. The Cougars will be looking to continue their winning streak against the Buccaneers in 2024.

The Cougars' home opener against ETSU is scheduled for August 31st at TDECU Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6:00 PM CT and tickets are available now.