Last year's matchup between Appalachian State and Georgia Southern did not go as planned for the Mountaineers. The Mountaineers made the trip to Statesboro, only to get waxed by their rival, in a 34-14 defeat.

It might be fair to say that this year is different; the tables might have turned. The star-studded roster that Georgia Southern fielded last season was loaded with veteran leadership. Appalachian State was young and was struggling to find an identity in the new world of bowl division football. This year, Appalachian State is older, more experienced, and Georgia Southern will be on the road. Let's look at the three biggest impacts that Appalachian State will have in this nationally televised showdown in Boone.

1. Defense.
It's no secret that the Mountaineers defense has been key to the success of the team this season. Per NCAA.com, the Mountaineers boast the ninth best defense in all of college football, yes you read that correctly, the ninth best amongst every team nationwide. Appalachian State boasts the 16th best rushing defense, and the fifth highest scoring defense in the nation. Creating turnovers and generating points on defense adds an element to your game that doesn't exist with most teams. It makes your offense have to work less, and can kill motivation in opposing offenses. The defense is the workhorse for this team, and this group will make things difficult for Georgia Southern, and any other Sun Belt opponents going forward.

2. Offense.
Could you see this one coming? I know it would seem a tad obvious to state that defense and offense for a team would be the key to a game, but this offense is nearly as stout as the defense. Appalachian State ranks 17th in total offense this season. Behind the legs of Marcus Cox and Terrence Upshaw, Appalachian State has launched themselves into the rushing elite in college football. Appalachian State's rushing offense comes in at number nine in the nation with over 1,700 yards this season. The rushing attack has helped Appalachian State become the 15th highest scoring offense in all of college football, making it difficult to keep up with the Mountaineers. Although, the offense isn't without flaw. The Mountaineers will need to display a solid air attack and better red zone efficiency in order to keep the opposing defense on its toes.

3. The 12th Man.
Let's be honest, the crowd at Kidd Brewer Stadium has been tame in comparison to the championship years. It's fair to say that playing in Kidd Brewer hasn't been very intimidating for opponents during the past three seasons. I truly expect this to change on Thursday evening. This is a Thursday night game that is being aired on national television. The exposure that this game is receiving should allow for a boost in energy on campus, and bring most students to the stadium Thursday night. Georgia Southern should be prepared to expect constant crowd noise, and difficult third downs. Fans will show up and show out for this matchup.

Thursday evening is Appalachian State's chance to show the sports world what it's made of. Fans should show up early, get loud, and make life very difficult for Georgia Southern.