Northern Illinois Huskies (5-6) vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (1-10)
Northern Illinois Huskies vs Kent State Golden Flashes 11/25/23 – As Week 13 of the NCAAF season commences, our attention turns to an intriguing matchup between Northern Illinois Huskies and Kent State Golden Flashes at Dix Stadium this Saturday. Set to be an essential contest in terms of standings but also premium spread picks, it promises to be a key moment in both teams’ seasons – Northern Illinois are 5-6 on their season with Kent State trailing with 1-10 record vying for redemption through this contest.
Antario Brown and Trayvon Rudolph have been instrumental to Northern Illinois Huskies success this year, contributing to 1075 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns respectively as dynamic running backs. Rudolph has proven invaluable as an offensive wide receiver as he amassed 461 receiving yards with 2 touchdowns proving reliable targets in passing game action – their contributions will prove crucial in this matchup.
Kent State Golden Flashes have also shown promise through players like Gavin Garcia and Chrishon McCray. Garcia, Kent State’s leading running back, has amassed 460 yards rushing with two touchdowns; McCray stands out with his impressive 610 receiving yards and four touchdown catches as wide receiver. Both could prove game-changers for Kent State.
Northern Illinois Huskies vs Kent State Golden Flashes 11/25/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Dix Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Rocky Lombardi QB vs. Michael Alaimo QB
In his first year at NIU after transferring from Michigan State, Lombardi has given the Huskies stability under center. He’s completed 57.9% of his passes for 1,891 yards and nine touchdowns to five interceptions. While not an elite arm talent, Lombardi protects the football and makes quick decisions to sustain drives. His 72-yard completion leads an intermediate passing game well-suited for high-percentage throws. Lombardi has taken 15 sacks due to his limited mobility.
Alaimo assumed Kent State’s starting duties six games into the year. The sophomore has battled injury issues and ranks near the bottom of the MAC in most passing categories. Alaimo completes just 54.9% of his attempts for only 6.5 yards per pass. He’s tossed two touchdowns compared to four interceptions and taken a conference-high 27 sacks. Alaimo often struggles coping with pressure and lacks accuracy downfield. His limitations hinder the Golden Flashes offense.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Northern Illinois Huskies -1300, Total Odds: 44
The oddsmakers clearly expect Northern Illinois to control this contest. With Kent State surrendering the most points in the MAC, the projected 44-point over/under line also favors the visiting Huskies. NIU covers over 80% of the time in this series, making the 19.5-point spread tempting despite last week’s tight win over Western Michigan. Back Lombardi and Brown to lead Northern Illinois to a seventh straight victory over the Golden Flashes.
Northern Illinois Huskies Betting Trends
NIU rides a 6-1 ATS run as favorite into Saturday’s matchup. The Huskies also own an 11-4 outright record against Kent State since 2012. With the total going under in four of their last five overall, Northern Illinois tends to play lower-scoring, grind-it-out games. However, NIU contests have exceeded 44 points in five of their past six road affairs.
Kent State Golden Flashes Betting Trends
It’s been a nightmare season for Kent State, with the Golden Flashes riding an eight-game straight up losing streak. They’ve also failed to cover the spread in seven straight contests. Kent State has seen the over hit in eight of their last 12 outings, though the under cashed in eight of their past 12 meetings with NIU. Back the under 44 at Dix Stadium this Saturday.
Northern Illinois Huskies vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 11/25/23 Betting Picks
The odds and trends clearly point to Northern Illinois continuing their dominance over Kent State here. With Lombardi poised to exploit the Golden Flashes’ awful pass defense, expect the Huskies to secure bowl eligibility in convincing fashion. The 19.5-point spread seems appropriate given NIU’s historical success in this series. Consider taking the visitors on the spread in addition to moneyline wagers. Additionally, 13 of the last 15 head-to-head matchups have finished under the projected 44 total. This game sets up well for NCAAF free selections on Northern Illinois ATS and the under for bettors.
Free Pick and Prediction: Northern Illinois Huskies 38, Kent State Golden Flashes 13