Colorado State Rams (0-2) vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (1-2)
Colorado State Rams vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 9/23/23 – The Colorado State Rams and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders will face off this Saturday, September 23rd, in what promises to be an exciting Week 4 clash. With the Rams at 0-2 and the Blue Raiders holding a slightly better 1-2 record, both teams are desperate for a win to turn their seasons around. The game is set for 7:00 PM ET at Johnny (Red) Floyd Stadium, and it will be televised on ESP+.
The offensive unit for the Colorado State Rams has largely been orchestrated by their emerging talents: running back Avery Morrow and wideout Tory Horton. While Morrow has found it challenging to make his mark, managing a meager average of 2.7 yards per rush over 30 carries, he’ll be aiming to recalibrate against the defense of the Blue Raiders. Similarly, Horton has emerged as a favored target in the Rams’ passing game, accumulating 25 catches for 214 yards. However, his true impact will be felt only when he starts converting those numbers into touchdowns more frequently.
In contrast, the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders boast a more diversified offensive strategy. Jaiden Credle, their running back, has been remarkable, racking up an impressive average of 7.5 yards per carry. This has instilled a formidable ground game for the Blue Raiders. Additionally, wide receiver Jeremy Tate Jr. has been a consistent performer, clocking an average of 14.3 yards per reception. He serves as a reliable deep threat for the team’s aerial attack. Both these players will be under the spotlight as they aim to electrify the home audience with their performances. For free week 4 NCAAF picks, continue reading our analysis.
Colorado State Rams vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Game Info
| When: | Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Johnny (Red) Floyd Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi QB vs. Nicholas Vattiato QB
Despite the Rams’ rocky 0-2 start to the season, quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi has emerged as a bright spot for the team. He’s connected on 47 out of his 67 pass attempts, accumulating 577 yards through the air along with 5 touchdowns. While his four interceptions highlight areas for improvement in decision-making, his overall passer rating of 155.2 shows his potential. One of his strong suits is certainly his accuracy, as demonstrated by a notable 70.1% completion percentage. Furthermore, Fowler-Nicolosi has displayed solid pocket awareness, having been sacked a minimal three times, which speaks to his ability to release the ball promptly when under duress.
Nicholas Vattiato, the Blue Raiders’ quarterback, has put up similar numbers with 637 passing yards, a 69.6% completion rate, and 5 touchdowns to 2 interceptions. His 134.3 passer rating is respectable, but he has struggled with sack issues, having been brought down seven times already this season. His pocket presence and handling of defensive pressure will be crucial aspects to watch during this game.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Middle Tennessee -145, Total Odds: 51
Based on the betting odds, the Blue Raiders are slight favorites with a Moneyline of -145 and a spread of -3. The total over/under for the game is set at 51. Considering both teams’ recent performance and struggles, it would not be surprising to see a close, low-scoring contest.
Colorado State Rams Betting Trends
The Rams have been decent against the spread recently, going 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games. However, their on-the-field performance leaves much to be desired with a 1-6 SU record in their last 7 games. The trend to watch is the total going UNDER in 11 of Colorado State’s last 14 games, which makes the under a tempting bet here.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Betting Trends
The Blue Raiders have a mixed bag of trends. They are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games and have done exceptionally well at home, going 8-3 SU. On the flip side, they are 5-12 SU in their last 17 games played in September. Most notably, the total has gone OVER in 4 of their last 5 games in Week 4, which contradicts the Rams’ UNDER trend.
Colorado State Rams vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 9/23/23 Betting Picks
Both teams have shown enough to suggest this will be a closely contested match. Based on home advantage and the overall steadier form, the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders look to be the safer bet here, particularly at -3. On the point total, given the conflicting trends and the desperation both teams will have for a win, taking the OVER seems the smarter choice. If you’re seeking more guidance on prop bets and other betting options, don’t forget to check out free picks online.
Free Pick and Prediction: Middle Tennessee 27, Colorado State 21.