Bowling Green Falcons (5-4) vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (1-8)
Bowling Green Falcons vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 11/8/23 – As the NCAAF season pushes into its penultimate stages, the Bowling Green Falcons, boasting a fighting 5-4 record, are set to go head-to-head against the Kent State Golden Flashes, who are struggling to find form at 1-8. The contest promises to be a significant Week 11 matchup with implications for postseason bowl game eligibility and pride in the Mid-American Conference. The Falcons look to solidify their standing and inch closer to a winning season, while the Golden Flashes aim to salvage some late-season respectability. This Wednesday night encounter will be under the microscope of NCAAF expert picks, as analysts comb through every facet to forecast the outcomes.
Bowling Green comes into this match with momentum, having won four of their last five outings. This upswing is largely thanks to key players such as quarterback Connor Bazelak and running back Terion Stewart. Bazelak has proven to be an essential leader on the field, notching up 1023 passing yards with a 57.8 completion percentage. Stewart, on the other hand, has been the workhorse for the ground game, hammering defenses for 762 rushing yards and finding the end zone 8 times.
Conversely, the Golden Flashes’ season has been marred by setbacks, leaving them with a lonely win to their name. Despite the overall team struggles, individuals like quarterback Michael Alaimo and receiver Chrishon McCray have shone brightly. Alaimo has shown glimpses of potential with 932 passing yards, while McCray has been a consistent receiving threat, tallying 610 yards and crossing the plane four times.
Bowling Green Falcons vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 11/8/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Dix Stadium |
| TV: | CBSSN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Connor Bazelak QB vs. Michael Alaimo QB
The Falcons’ Bazelak, despite his recent sack troubles and an adverse sack yard total, maintains a decent passer rating of 118. His resilience and ability to manage games have provided Bowling Green with a steady hand at the helm. His decision-making will be critical, especially in red zone situations where the Falcons need to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
For Kent State, Alaimo’s season tells a story of growth amid adversity. Enduring a whopping 27 sacks and struggling with interceptions, his passer rating reflects the challenges he’s faced. Yet, Alaimo’s perseverance and the learning curve could turn into an asset as he seeks to exploit a Falcons defense that will be on high alert.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Bowling Green Falcons -287, Total Odds: 38.5
The odds and a relatively low over/under total of 38.5 reflect the defensive nature of these teams, with Bowling Green favored by -6.5 points. The spread indicates the belief that the Falcons can handle the Golden Flashes by at least a touchdown, aligning with the Falcons’ more consistent performances this season.
Bowling Green Falcons Betting Trends
The Falcons’ recent form, with a 4-1 straight-up record in their last 5 games, speaks volumes about their current trajectory. However, their 1-4 against the spread (ATS) record against Kent State in the last five meetings hints at close contests between these rivals. Additionally, a trend favoring the under in road games suggests a tendency to engage in low-scoring battles away from home.
Kent State Golden Flashes Betting Trends
Kent State’s betting trends paint a grim picture: a 0-5-1 ATS record in their last 6 games. The inability to cover spreads indicates that they often underperform relative to expectations. However, an over trend in 5 of their last 7 games suggests that while their defense might be leaky, their offense tends to keep pace, a trend that could see them challenge the Falcons if their attack ignites.
Bowling Green Falcons vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 11/8/23 Betting Picks
Considering the comprehensive data and the outlined betting trends, the Falcons come into this contest with a definitive edge. They appear poised to extend their winning record against a Kent State team that has struggled to stay competitive. Nevertheless, history tells us that matches between these two sides have been closer than the records suggest, which could see the Golden Flashes outperform the spread.
For the winning picks premium, the Falcons might be the safer bet for a straight-up win, but the Golden Flashes could be the savvy choice with the points, especially at home. Prop bets could be interesting, particularly focusing on Stewart’s rushing yards, given his strong season form.
Free Pick and Prediction: Bowling Green Falcons 27, Kent State Golden Flashes 17