As we move forward with Week 4 in the NCAAF schedule, the Duke Blue Devils (3-0), who are yet to be defeated, are all set to take the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (1-2), which promises to be intriguing. The tussle is slated for Saturday, 4:00 PM ET, in Johnny (Red) Floyd Stadium and will be aired on ESPU. Those unable to watch it on TV can also watch it live on Sofascore, which shows the streaming. Both teams have had a different approach to the beginning of the season, and as they prepare for war, the fans and the investors need valuable NCAAF free picks today.
Duke Blue Devils vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 9/21/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 21 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Johnny (Red) Floyd Stadium |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Duke Blue Devils (3-0) vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (1-2)
This season, the Duke Blue Devils have impressed and began the season with a match-winning streak. Their offense has been strong, highlighted by Star Thomas’s play on the field as a running back. Thomas has yet to register a touchdown but has earned 203 rushing yards. This performance was important for their last two wins versus Connecticut (26-21) and Northwestern (26-20). The passing game with Eli Pancol on four receiving touchdowns and 161 yards has been important, too.
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders have had some trouble with consistency, as can be noticed in the 1-2 opening. It is worth mentioning that the most favourable part of the last five games for the team has been their home games, having won 4. However, the most recent losses at Western Kentucky (21-49) and Ole Miss (3-52) displayed some weaknesses that must be dealt with. Their defensive line has failed to fend off physical pass offenses.
Maalik Murphy QB vs. Nicholas Vattiato QB
Maalik Murphy, the signal-caller for the Dukies team, has remained the constant for the team, successfully registering 801 yards from 78 completions out of 122 attempts. Although he has three interceptions, with a passer rating of 135.8, he could perform Alex Murphy’s domineering aspects under duress. Murphy had a 55-yard pass and a few short-range less, which means that the Blue Raiders would have to account for this aerial threat dimension as well.
Even with the poor stretch for the team as it took place, Middle Tennessee’s quarterback, Nicholas Vattiato, proved to have a good individual effort. Vattiato, on the other hand, has better stats 65.7% completion against Murphy and 8.8 net yards gained per pass as opposed to Murphy’s 8.0. His most significant throw of the season was 71 yards long, enabling him all season to cut an edge perhaps vital in penetrating the multiple layers of Dukes’ defensive arrogance.
The gameplay will change when these two quarterbacks clash based on their opposing styles and abilities. Vattiato’s use of the vertical attack will strain the Blue Devil’s secondary, whereas Murphy’s systematic approach will test the Raiders’ defensive tweaks.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Duke Blue Devils -15 (-110), Total Odds: 54
The odds favor Duke with a 7-point spread, reflecting their strong early-season form and consistent ability to cover in recent matches. The total set at 54.5 suggests an expectation of a high-scoring game, consistent with Duke’s trend of hitting the OVER in road games.
Duke Blue Devils Betting Trends
Duke’s current form suggests they are likely to cover the spread, especially considering they are favored by 15 points, reflecting their strong performances against both conference and non-conference teams. Their games are high-scoring, particularly on the road, making the Over on the total points a bet worth considering.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Betting Trends
Contrasting sharply, Middle Tennessee has struggled, failing to cover the spread in their last five games and showing vulnerabilities, particularly against strong offensive teams. Their recent poor record against Atlantic Coast Conference teams and the trend towards higher-scoring games could mean challenges in covering such a large spread.
Duke Blue Devils vs. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 9/21/24 Betting Picks
With consideration of the stats and the gambling patterns, it is best if Duke handles the spread. The team’s offensive balance and good defense enable them to deal with Middle Tennessee, which is still looking for a rhythm. As for the prop bets, it is probably best to pay attention to the OVER on the total since Duke has always been a high-scoring team when playing away.
Due to their ability to remain consistent and the high potential for a shootout it is logical to favour them, more so with the current state of Middle Tennessee when up against elite teams. For those who are into handicapping expert selections, it would be logical to put faith in Duke’s chances of covering the spread and to bet the OVER to total points.