Kent State-Ball State: Odds, Computer Model Picks

MUNCIE, IN – The Ball State Cardinals are set to face off against the struggling Kent State Golden Flashes in a Mid-American Conference showdown this Wednesday, November 8th. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. Eastern Time at Scheumann Stadium in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State’s home turf. The game will be a key mid-week MACtion matchup, typically broadcast on ESPN networks or CBS Sports Network (check local listings for specific channel information).

Betting lines for the contest reflect the current form of both teams. Ball State is favored by 1 point, with the over/under for total points set at 42.5. On the money line, Ball State stands at -120, while Kent State is listed at +100.

SportsLine’s highly regarded computer model, which has demonstrated a strong track record this season with a 26-10 (69% success rate) on its top-rated college football picks, has analyzed the matchup. Their prediction leans heavily toward **Ball State covering the 1-point spread** and forecasts the game to go **Under 42.5 total points**.

For Head Coach Kenni Burns and the Kent State Golden Flashes, the 2023 season has proven to be an uphill battle. The team currently holds a dismal 1-8 overall record and remains winless in conference play at 0-5. Kent State enters Wednesday’s game having dropped eight straight contests, plagued by an offense that has struggled significantly, failing to score more than 17 points in six of their last seven outings.

In contrast, Head Coach Mike Neu’s Ball State Cardinals have shown signs of a late-season turnaround. After an 0-4 start to their season, the Cardinals have rallied to win three of their last five games, bringing their overall record to 3-6 and their MAC standing to 2-3. This resurgence has been bolstered by a solid defensive performance and the impactful play of key players like running back Marquez Cooper.

Statistical trends further support the model’s projections for a low-scoring affair. The “Under” has hit in seven of Ball State’s nine games this season, and in five of Kent State’s nine games as well, highlighting a pattern of defensive strength or offensive struggles for both squads.

While Kent State managed to secure a 27-24 victory over Ball State last season, the current momentum and team performances paint a different picture for this Wednesday night’s encounter. Ball State’s recent defensive form combined with Kent State’s persistent offensive challenges suggest the Cardinals are well-positioned for a crucial conference win at home.