Ball State Cardinals (2-7) vs. Northern Illinois Huskies (4-5)
Ball State Cardinals vs. Northern Illinois Huskies 11/7/23 – As the NCAAF regular season heads into the final stretch, the Ball State Cardinals face off against the Northern Illinois Huskies in a Week 11 matchup that could influence NCAAF free predictions. As the Ball State Cardinals endeavor to enhance their 2-7 record, the Northern Illinois Huskies strive to approach a .500 standing, currently holding a 4-5 record. The encounter, slated for the evening of Tuesday, promises to be a formidable contest. Scheduled to take place at Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium and broadcast, this match is anticipated to captivate the audience with its compelling dynamics.
The Ball State Cardinals’ current season record does not fully encapsulate their potential. Quarterback Layne Hatcher, exhibiting a completion rate exceeding 60% and averaging nearly 6 yards per passing attempt, offers a dependable leadership in the quarterback position. Marquez Cooper has emerged as a pivotal running back, amassing 674 rushing yards which exemplify his resilience and consistent ability to advance the ball. In addition, wide receiver Qian Magwood proves to be a significant contributor, consistently offering a dependable option in the passing offense.
Conversely, the Northern Illinois Huskies anticipate leveraging their home-field advantage to full effect. Quarterback Rocky Lombardi has amassed in excess of 1,650 passing yards this season, boasting a passer rating that underscores his competent offensive leadership. Antario Brown’s achievements in the running game are particularly noteworthy; with 843 rushing yards and an impressive average of 6.2 yards per carry, his contribution to the ground game is substantial. Trayvon Rudolph complements the Huskies’ offensive unit with his agility and ability to make pivotal plays as a wide receiver.
.
Ball State Cardinals vs. Northern Illinois Huskies 11/7/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium |
| TV: | CBSSN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Layne Hatcher QB vs. Rocky Lombardi QB
Layne Hatcher of Ball State has shown tenacity throughout the season. Despite the team’s struggles, Hatcher’s 126 passer rating indicates his ability to maintain composure and connect with his receivers effectively. However, with 11 total sacks and a yardage loss due to sacks, Hatcher must improve his pocket awareness against a Huskies defense ready to exploit any sign of weakness.
Rocky Lombardi‘s stats for Northern Illinois paint a picture of a quarterback who can control the pace of the game and make decisive throws. With a completion percentage over 58% and a higher yards per pass attempt than Hatcher, Lombardi’s proficiency in orchestrating the offense will be pivotal. His main challenge will be to minimize mistakes against a Cardinals defense eager to capitalize on turnovers.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Northern Illinois Huskies -340, Total Odds: 43.5
The Huskies enter the game as the favorites with a -8.5 spread, while the Cardinals are looking to cause an upset. Bettors are looking at a total odds line of 43.5, a nod to the defensive capabilities of both teams which might result in a low-scoring affair.
Ball State Cardinals Betting Trends
The Cardinals’ recent trend shows a defense capable of keeping the score low, with the total going UNDER in 12 of their last 16 games. However, their 1-5 SU record in the last 6 games and a disappointing 2-9 ATS against Northern Illinois in their last 11 matchups highlight the challenges they face.
Northern Illinois Huskies Betting Trends
Northern Illinois has a mixed bag of trends. While the total has gone OVER in many of their recent games, suggesting an offensive potential, their 1-10 ATS record at home is a red flag for bettors. Yet, their dominance over Ball State at home, with a 6-1 SU record, can’t be ignored.
Ball State Cardinals vs Northern Illinois Huskies 11/7/23 Betting Picks
The statistics and trends set up a fascinating encounter. The Cardinals have proven they can keep games low-scoring, which might make the UNDER an attractive bet. However, the Huskies’ ability to outscore their opponents, especially at home against Ball State, adds an element of risk to that bet.
Multi-Handicapper Tips suggest that while Northern Illinois seems to be the safer pick due to their superior record and home advantage, the spread might be too generous given their poor ATS performance at home. This game could be closer than the odds suggest, offering value on Ball State to cover.
Prop bets on individual player performances, especially for Antario Brown, who has been a touchdown machine this season, may offer enticing options. Considering the over/under trends, cautious bettors might lean towards the UNDER, given the Cardinals’ consistent performance in that area.
Free Pick and Prediction: Northern Illinois Huskies 21, Ball State Cardinals 17