Western Michigan Broncos (1-2) vs. Toledo Rockets (2-1)
The Toledo Rockets are set to host the Western Michigan Broncos in a pivotal Mid-American Conference showdown at the Glass Bowl on September 23, 2023. Kickoff is at 1:30 PM ET, and the game will be aired live on ESP+. Both teams are eyeing a crucial win as their records currently stand at 2-1 and 1-2, respectively.
On the Western Michigan side, key players to keep an eye on are running back Jalen Buckley and wideout Kenneth Womack. Buckley has carried the ball 52 times, racking up 311 yards and a pair of touchdowns, while Womack has caught 10 passes for a total of 132 yards, although he has yet to find the end zone.
For the Toledo Rockets, the offensive spotlight is on running back Peny Boone and wide receiver Jerjuan Newton. Boone boasts an impressive 6.8 yards per carry, accumulating 191 yards and three touchdowns so far. Newton has hauled in 12 catches for 137 yards and has found the end zone three times this season.
Western Michigan Broncos vs. Toledo Rockets Game Info
| When: | Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 1:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Glass Bowl |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jack Salopek QB vs. Dequan Finn QB
One of the most intriguing aspects of this showdown between the Toledo Rockets and Western Michigan Broncos is the quarterback matchup. For Toledo, Dequan Finn has been a standout performer, impressing both critics and fans alike with his exceptional skill set. Over the course of the season, Finn has completed 49 of 76 passes, accumulating a total of 560 yards. His completion rate stands at 64.5%, a stat that speaks volumes about his accuracy and decision-making. Even more impressive are his six touchdown passes, balanced by only two interceptions. Finn has displayed remarkable poise under pressure, having been sacked only twice this season. His decision-making is laudable, as is his ability to extend plays when things break down, attributes that give Toledo an edge in this vital component of the game.
On the flip side, Western Michigan’s Jack Salopek has had a more turbulent season. Although he boasts a high completion rate of 70%, this number hasn’t necessarily translated into prolific scoring drives. Salopek has managed to throw for 278 yards on 35 completions out of 50 attempts, a yardage total that may not inspire confidence. With just a single touchdown pass under his belt and two interceptions, his risk-reward balance tilts more towards the riskier side. Furthermore, Salopek has been sacked four times, resulting in a loss of 35 yards from scrimmage. These sacks reveal his vulnerability when facing defensive pressure, which has had a domino effect on his decision-making, leading to turnovers. This susceptibility could be a significant factor, possibly a weak link, when he faces off against Toledo’s defense.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Toledo Rockets -1200, Total Odds: 54
The odds are clearly leaning towards the Toledo Rockets, with a point spread of -21 and a moneyline of -1200. The game’s over/under is set at 54 points, which suggests that Toledo is the overwhelming favorite.
Western Michigan Broncos Betting Trends
Western Michigan has been having a tough time recently. Their total points have gone UNDER in 8 out of their last 9 matchups, signaling a lackluster offensive output. They are 2-4 against the spread in their recent six meetings with Toledo and have a disappointing 1-5 record in their last six road games against the Rockets. Moreover, the UNDER has occurred in their last six clashes against Mid-American Conference teams, hinting at a potentially low-scoring affair.
Toledo Rockets Betting Trends
Despite a 3-7 record against the spread in their last 10 games, Toledo has been in fine form with a 4-1 straight-up record in their last five matchups. The Rockets are particularly tough to beat at the Glass Bowl, with an 8-1 straight-up record in their last nine home games. Also, the UNDER has occurred in 4 of their last 6 meetings against Western Michigan.
Western Michigan Broncos vs. Toledo Rockets 09/23/23 Betting Picks
Taking into account the trends and analysis, Toledo appears to have the advantage, especially with stronger quarterback play and home-field advantage. Western Michigan has some strong points, particularly in their ground game, but the odds overwhelmingly favor Toledo.
If you’re thinking of placing a wager, Toledo’s strong home performance and Western Michigan’s struggles on the road make backing Toledo to cover the spread a solid bet. Regarding the over/under, both team trends suggest an UNDER, which seems like another good betting option on your sportsbook.
Free Pick and Prediction: Toledo 38, Western Michigan 17
