Akron Zips (2-7) vs. Miami (OH) RedHawks (7-2)
Akron Zips vs. Miami (OH) RedHawks 11/8/23 – In the heart of November, the collegiate football landscape is ripe with tension and excitement as teams battle for post-season positioning. A Mid-American Conference showdown looms as the struggling Akron Zips face off against the robust Miami (OH) RedHawks. The game is not just a routine Week 11 encounter but also a highlight in the NCAAF game choices for bettors and fans alike. While the Zips seek to upset the rhythm of a seemingly superior opponent, the RedHawks will be looking to bolster their impressive record and solidify their presence in the conference.
The Zips’ season has been a challenging one, with a 2-7 standing that does little to inspire confidence. However, football is a game of any given Wednesday, and the Akron Zips come into Fred C. Yager Stadium with the hope of turning the tide. Key players like quarterback Jeff Undercuffler Jr. and running back Lorenzo Lingard will be central to any potential success. Undercuffler Jr., despite his underwhelming touchdown-to-interception ratio, has shown sparks of effective quarterback play, and Lingard’s near 5 yards per rush is a testament to his ability to break through tough defenses.
Conversely, the Miami (OH) RedHawks have painted a very different picture this season. With a solid 7-2 record, they appear as the quintessential example of what consistent team play should look like. Brett Gabbert at quarterback has been a revelation, amassing a passer rating that reflects efficiency and an enviable touchdown-to-interception ratio. Running back Rashad Amos provides balance to the offense, and wide receiver Gage Larvadain’s ability to turn short gains into big plays can’t be overstated.
Akron Zips vs. Miami (OH) RedHawks 11/8/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Fred C. Yager Stadium |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jeff Undercuffler Jr. QB vs. Brett Gabbert QB
Jeff Undercuffler Jr.’s season, marked by a completion percentage north of 60, suggests a quarterback who can connect with his receivers, albeit one who has faced challenges in converting those completions into scores. His negative sack yard total underscores the need for better protection and quicker release times to avoid defensive pressure that has too often led to turnovers.
Brett Gabbert, contrastingly, has been the more prolific of the two, boasting a completion percentage that, while not spectacular, is more than sufficient given his high yards per attempt and the total touchdowns scored. Gabbert’s resilience, even after absorbing 15 sacks, and his ability to maintain a high passer rating points to a quarterback comfortable with making crucial plays under duress.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Miami (OH) RedHawks -687, Total Odds: 40.5
The odds have the RedHawks as the distinct favorites, with a spread suggesting a belief among oddsmakers that Miami (OH) will not just win, but do so by more than two touchdowns. The under on a relatively low total points line of 40.5 indicates expectations of a game controlled by defense or hampered by offensive struggles.
Akron Zips Betting Trends
The Zips’ betting trends do not paint a pretty picture. Despite an overall poor performance against the spread, they surprisingly have been strong against the number when on the road in Miami (OH), with a 5-0 ATS in their last 5 visits. Their struggles to secure outright wins, particularly within the conference and on the road, are glaring and are trends bettors will have closely in mind.
Miami (OH) RedHawks Betting Trends
The RedHawks have been near impeccable against the spread this season, with a 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games. Their record at home is formidable, and while they have failed to cover in recent home stands against Akron specifically, their overall dominance suggests this could be the time to buck that trend.
Akron Zips vs. Miami (OH) RedHawks 11/8/23 Betting Picks
Given the statistics and trends, the RedHawks seem poised to continue their winning ways. They have both the offensive firepower and the defensive acumen to keep the Zips at bay. However, the game of football is unpredictable, and Akron’s history of covering the spread in Miami (OH) provides a compelling narrative for a closer game than the odds suggest.
From the game analysis by experts, the smart money might be on Miami (OH) to win but for Akron to cover the spread, given the substantial 15-point cushion. Prop bets that could be interesting include the over on Rashad Amos’s rushing yards and Brett Gabbert’s touchdown passes, considering their impressive seasonal performances.
Free Pick and Prediction: Miami (OH) RedHawks 31, Akron Zips 20