Marshall Thundering Herd (4-4) vs Appalachian State Mountaineers (4-4)
Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers 11/4/23 – The midseason clash in NCAAF Week 10 presents a balanced ledger as the Marshall Thundering Herd (4-4) lock horns with the Appalachian State Mountaineers (4-4) on Saturday, November 4, 2023. Both teams stand at a crossroads, with even records that suggest a tightly contested matchup is ahead. Bettors and fans alike are eager for the handicapper’s favorite picks as the teams vie to tip their season scales toward success.
Marshall’s journey to .500 has been a rocky one, marked by their recent failure to cover the spread in the last five outings. However, in the heart of their lineup stands running back Rasheen Ali, a force with 693 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns to his name, highlighting a prowess on the ground that could prove vital in Marshall’s offensive scheme. On the flanks, wide receiver Caleb Coombs has provided a reliable option, though his modest 260 receiving yards signal a need for more explosive plays if Marshall is to upset the odds.
In contrast, the Mountaineers mirror their opponents’ record but boast a stronger foothold at home with a 7-1 SU in their last 8 games in Kidd Brewer Stadium. Quarterback Joey Aguilar’s arm has carved out 2173 passing yards this season, and with a passer rating of 153.9, his impact can’t be overstated. Accompanying him is Nate Noel, who, like his counterpart Ali, will be crucial in establishing the ground game with 660 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. Kaedin Robinson brings a dynamic edge to the receiving corps, averaging 13.8 yards per catch and presenting a significant threat to Marshall’s secondary.
Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers 11/4/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Kidd Brewer Stadium |
| TV: | NFLN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Cam Fancher QB vs. Joey Aguilar QB
Cam Fancher has been a mixed bag for Marshall this season. Despite a completion rate touching 65.9%, his 8 interceptions against 7 touchdowns raise concerns. The 126.7 passer rating is respectable, but the 21 sacks suggest a vulnerability under pressure, something that Appalachian State’s defense will be keen to exploit. Fancher’s ability to maintain composure and connect with key playmakers like Ali and Coombs could pivot the game’s direction.
Joey Aguilar, on the other hand, has steered the Mountaineers with a confident hand. His 20 touchdowns to 6 interceptions ratio and an impressive 153.9 passer rating provide a glimpse into his effectiveness in orchestrating the offense. Aguilar’s knack for finding receivers like Robinson in stride and his ability to shake off pressure with only 8 sacks recorded against him will be critical as he aims to dissect Marshall’s defensive front.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Appalachian State Mountaineers -170, Total Odds: 56
The Mountaineers enter as favorites with a -170 moneyline and a -3.5 point spread, whereas the over/under total is pegged at 56. These odds reflect the home-field advantage and the balanced nature of this encounter. Appalachian State’s stronger performance metrics as favorites, combined with Marshall’s ATS struggles, are factors that bettors must weigh carefully.
Marshall Thundering Herd Betting Trends
Marshall’s betting trends don’t inspire much confidence, especially with a glaring 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games. On the road, however, they have a more respectable 12-6 ATS record over their last 18 games. These mixed signals mean bettors must consider the broader context of Marshall’s performances, particularly their ability to cover when traveling, which could play into their hands against a familiar foe.
Appalachian State Mountaineers Betting Trends
The Mountaineers have similarly been a letdown against the spread, with a 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. Despite this, their 7-1 SU record at home cannot be ignored. This dichotomy presents a challenge in predicting Appalachian State’s cover potential, but their outright winning potential at home is apparent, a trend they’ll hope continues against the Herd.
Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers 11/4/23 Betting Picks
Considering the trends and stats, the final thoughts lean toward a tightly contested game, with the Mountaineers having a slight edge due to their formidable home record and the efficient play of Aguilar. However, the Thundering Herd’s ground game, powered by Ali, has the potential to keep them within striking distance.
In weighing the better pick, Appalachian State’s -3.5 spread seems surmountable given their quarterback’s form and home advantage. Yet, Marshall’s past success against the Mountaineers and their ability to bounce back on the road might appeal to those looking for NCAAF underdogs tips. The over/under is a toss-up, hinging on both teams’ offensive delivery on the day.
Free Pick and Prediction: Appalachian State Mountaineers 31, Marshall Thundering Herd 27