Ball State Cardinals (2-6) vs. Bowling Green Falcons (4-4)
The mid-season NCAAF picks today lead us to the showdown between the Ball State Cardinals with a 2-6 standing and the Bowling Green Falcons, who’ve managed a balanced record at 4-4. Taking place at the Doyt L. Perry Stadium on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, this game is gearing up to be a compelling mid-week matchup.
For the Cardinals, integral contributors such as RB Marquez Cooper and WR Qian Magwood have demonstrated potential, notwithstanding the team’s less than satisfactory performance this season. Cooper has amassed 584 rushing yards from 121 attempts, punctuated by two touchdowns, indicating his consistent form. Concurrently, Magwood, accruing 309 receiving yards and a touchdown, has become a pivotal asset in the Cardinals’ passing offense.
Shifting focus to the Falcons, RB Terion Stewart and WR Odieu Hilaire emerge as noteworthy performers. Stewart, with a remarkable 670 rushing yards from 110 attempts and a substantial tally of 7 touchdowns, solidifies his position as a central figure in the team’s ground offense. In the passing realm, Hilaire, securing 226 receiving yards over 21 receptions, has proven to be a dependable receiver for the Falcons’ aerial strategy.
Ball State Cardinals vs. Bowling Green Falcons Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Doyt L. Perry Stadium |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Layne Hatcher QB vs. Connor Bazelak QB
Layne Hatcher, the esteemed quarterback for Ball State, has distinguished himself as an instrumental force on the field throughout this season. Amassing 565 passing yards from an impressive 61 completions out of 95 attempts, he maintains a significant completion rate of 64.2%. His passer rating of 126 is indicative of his proficient execution and aptitude to spearhead the offensive endeavor. Among Hatcher’s primary attributes are his rapid release mechanics and astute ability to decipher defensive strategies, positioning him as a formidable adversary. Nonetheless, the notable count of 11 sacks he has encountered this season underscores areas of potential vulnerability, particularly concerning his presence within the pocket and the defensive support he receives. As he prepares to confront the Falcons, Hatcher’s tenacity and adaptability in high-pressure scenarios will be of utmost significance.
On the other side, Connor Bazelak, steering the Bowling Green offense, has showcased promising stats with 895 passing yards harvested from 80 completions out of 140 attempts, reflecting a completion rate of 57.1%. With a passer rating of 114.1, Bazelak’s aptitude lies in his deep throws, game vision, and pocket mobility. His ability to connect on critical plays is a testament to his growing reputation. However, his six interceptions this season indicate some lapses in decision-making, which could be exploited by the Cardinals’ secondary. For the Falcons to succeed, Bazelak’s consistency and mental sharpness will be crucial elements in the upcoming game.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Bowling Green Falcons -234, Total Odds: 39.5
Looking at the betting odds, the Bowling Green Falcons emerge as favorites with a Moneyline of -234, and the game’s total is set at 39.5.
Ball State Cardinals Betting Trends
The Cardinals’ betting trends highlight some concerns. The total has gone UNDER in 12 of their last 15 games, indicating a struggle in high-scoring matches. Their record of 2-9 SU in their last 11 games, and 0-6 SU in their recent road games, also paints a challenging picture. The team’s performance against opponents in the Mid-American conference, with the UNDER in 9 of the last 10 games, suggests a recurring pattern.
Bowling Green Falcons Betting Trends
For the Falcons, they come into this matchup with a decent 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games. However, the trend of the total going UNDER in 4 of their last 6 games and 4 of their last 5 against Mid-American conference teams indicates defensive matchups. Their historical 3-11 ATS in November may be a point of concern, but their strong 13-4 SU in week 10 games offers optimism.
Ball State Cardinals vs. Bowling Green Falcons 11/1/23 Betting Picks
Considering the stats, trends, and key players, the Falcons seem to be the stronger team. Their overall performance and the home advantage should play to their benefit.
However, for those diving into online betting, consider the total UNDER given both teams’ recent UNDER trends. Prop bets on Terion Stewart might be lucrative given his impressive rushing stats.
Free Pick and Prediction: Bowling Green Falcons 24, Ball State Cardinals 17
