As the action of the third week in the NCAAF 2023 season continues, the Marshall Thundering Herd (1-1) are heading into Week 4 to take. We take on the undefeated Ohio State Buckeyes (2-0). As of today, this does not seem to be a greatly anticipated encounter. Yes, and the Ohio State Wolverine team is gunning for a win for the full house in the Ohio Stadium for the second straight game. Let’s diverge in some of our Top NCAAF free picks and understand the most sign pending matchups.
Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 9/21/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Ohio Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Marshall Thundering Herd (1-1) vs. Ohio State Buckeyes (2-0)
Marshall’s rushing and receiving game has been nothing less than uncertain. It is running back A.J. Turner with 222 rushing yards obtained from 14 attempts who manages to emerge as the ground leader. There were flashes of his brilliance during the team’s first week when he had an 80 yard run against Stony Brook, however, the next week brought a huge disappointment for Marshall, as they could only score 14 points in the 31-14 defeat to Virginia Tech. Christian Fitzpatrick managed to be a light for the team’s receiving corps thrown to him 8 times for 170 yards and 2 touchdowns, however, in general, the situation remained bleak as Marshall was unable to produce against robust defenses
That’s not the case with Ohio State, as they seem to be on fire. Their running back Quinshon Judkins emerged as a beast in their two games so far this season, amassing a total of 163 rushing yards and making 3 touchdowns. For the Buckeyes in their 56-0 over Western Michigan, Judkins contributed with 3 rushing crosses. Jeremiah Smith, a wide receiver has been an elite weapon in Ohio State’s offense with 211 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. Smith was able to show how much of a big-play threat he can be in their season opener, where he had a 70-yard reception.
Stone Earle QB vs. Will Howard QB
Stone Earle, who plays quarterback for Marshall’s squad, carries the weight of the Herd’s aspirations this season. Out of 52 attempts, Earle has completed just 23 passes which result in a completion rate of only 44.2% and has a passer rating of 96.3. His passing totals of 228 yards along with 3 touchdowns are impressive but the lone interception and the resulting sacks leave a lot to be desired regarding better protection and better decision making. With a blocking scheme that has demonstrated the ability of Earle to find soft spots and deliver pressure, the success of Marshall’s offense could depend to an extent on the effectiveness of its attack against an aggressive defense of Ohio State.
In comparison, Will Howard from Ohio State has had a good season in all aspects. He has completed 520 yards of passing with a 64.8% completion rate, and no-undermines-sky, along with completing four touchdowns and no interceptions, Howard takes the lead. A passer rating of 170.2 goes to show the efficiency and decision-making under pressure presented by Howard. Howard’s combination of throwing the ball and running Ohio State’s offensive system is a nightmare this season.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Ohio State Buckeyes -39.5 (-110), Total Odds: 51.5
The current betting odds decisively favor Ohio State, with a significant spread of -39.5 reflecting their formidable reputation and performance. For bettors, Ohio State’s consistent home domination offers a convincing case, yet the considerable spread might suggest caution. The total points line is set at 51.5, indicating the potential for a high-scoring affair, especially with Ohio State’s potent offense.
Marshall Thundering Herd Betting Trends
Marshall has struggled against the spread (ATS), going just 4-8 in their last 12 games. Additionally, they’ve been dreadful on the road, losing their last 6 road games straight up. Despite their struggles, Marshall’s games have tended to hit the over when facing Big Ten opponents, with the total going over in their last 6 such matchups. This could be a crucial factor for bettors looking to wager on the total for this game.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
Dominance is a hallmark for Ohio State, who are 13-2 SU in their previous 15 games. Their strong form at home, with an 8-0 streak supports confidence in their ability to cover spreads. Notably, they are 4-0-1 ATS in their last five Week 4 matchups, demonstrating readiness and strategic acumen as the season progresses.
Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 9/21/24 Betting Picks
Considering Ohio State’s vast strengths and the poor form of many Marshall players, it is quite reasonable to back the Buckeyes, even with a large spread. Such victories are not mere trifles for Ohio State; they intend to win every game by the widest possible margin. This is only further reinforcement of this perspective as it has been pointed out that Marshall struggles particularly away from home and against the same caliber of teams.
As for the sports betting enthusiasts with further perspectives in sight, premium insights appropriate for the betting could be available through prop bets oriented toward Ohio State’s players as well as over/under line. On the one hand, Ohio State’s inspired defenders would favor the under. On the other hand, Marshall has shown the potential to score when they least expect it and this may lead to a more unpredictable ending.