Sun Belt coaches tabbed Troy as one of the favorites to win the league, and the Trojans get a chance to test that label early in the conference slate.
The Trojans open conference play at home Friday and Sunday with Georgia Southern and Georgia State, respectively, in an opportunity to jump ahead of other league heavyweights. The Trojans (6-7) were picked third in the league but finished just a point behind Georgia State in voting and a point ahead of Georgia Southern.
In an even tougher twist, the Trojans face conference favorite Texas-Arlington on the road next Thursday once this weekend’s homestand is complete.