USMNT vs. Jamaica: Three things to watch, including a predicted starting lineup for Gregg Berhalter's squad

Here's what to know about Thursday's showdown

The United States men's national team has a huge opportunity on Thursday when they host Jamaica in World Cup qualifying. The Americans are looking for their first home win during this final stage of qualification and to string together back-to-back victories that could give them some serious separation ahead of their next game on Sunday in Panama. With kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET from Austin, Texas, here are three things to watch, predicting the starting lineup and more:

This USMNT still has plenty of holes, but its most glaring has been at the striker position. It's far from solved, but Ricardo Pepi did deliver big time in Honduras with his one goal, two-assist performance. One would think that he has earned the right to start this game thanks to that impact he made, and which he continues to make for FC Dallas. Combined with Josh Sargent's poor form and not being in the team, it seems clear as day that Pepi should be the one getting those minutes. Please don't yell at me if it ends up being Gyasi Zardes ...