Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/7/2024 3:30 PM EST

We have your Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Northern Illinois Huskies hit the road to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Northern Illinois Huskies +3500 (Caesars) / Notre Dame Fighting Irish -9000 (bet365)
Best Spread Odds: -28.5 - Northern Illinois Huskies -110 (BetMGM) / Notre Dame Fighting Irish -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 45.0 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -108 (DraftKings)

Game Info

Date: 9/7/2024
Time: 3:30 PM EST
Location: Notre Dame Stadium
TV: NBC

Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Preview

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are riding high after a commanding 23-13 victory over Texas A&M, a win that has catapulted them to the No. 3 spot in Pro Football Focus' rankings. As they prepare to host the Northern Illinois Huskies, the Irish are keen to maintain their momentum and avoid any potential pitfalls against a team known for its giant-slaying history. Head coach Marcus Freeman has emphasized the need for focus, acknowledging Northern Illinois' competitive spirit and their knack for challenging top-tier teams. The Huskies, who have won seven of their last nine games, return with 18 starters and a history of upsetting Power Five teams, including a memorable near-upset against Ohio State in 2015.

Notre Dame's defense, which stifled Texas A&M's top quarterback prospect Conner Weigman, will be crucial in this matchup. The Irish will look to replicate their defensive prowess against a Northern Illinois team that, while a 30-point underdog, has the potential to disrupt with their unique defensive schemes. The Huskies' defense, particularly their front line, poses a challenge that Notre Dame's offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock will need to navigate carefully.

Weather conditions in South Bend could add another layer of complexity, with cooler temperatures and potential rain expected. This might affect the dynamics of the game, but the Irish are determined to capitalize on their home advantage and the energy of their fans, who are eager to see their team continue its strong start to the season. As Notre Dame aims to solidify its top-five ranking, the focus will be on maintaining discipline and executing their game plan effectively against a Northern Illinois team that has historically thrived in the role of the underdog.

Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pick: Notre Dame Fighting Irish Moneyline

As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare to host the Northern Illinois Huskies, the odds heavily favor the home team, and for good reason. Notre Dame is coming off a significant victory over Texas A&M, a win that not only boosted their confidence but also elevated them to the No. 3 spot in Pro Football Focus' rankings. This momentum is crucial as they face a Northern Illinois team that, while historically known for its ability to challenge top-tier teams, is a substantial underdog in this matchup.

Notre Dame's defense was instrumental in their win against Texas A&M, particularly in stifling Conner Weigman, a top quarterback prospect. This defensive prowess will be key against Northern Illinois, whose unique defensive schemes could pose a challenge. However, with 18 returning starters, the Huskies have shown resilience, winning seven of their last nine games. Despite this, the Fighting Irish's superior talent and depth, combined with the strategic acumen of head coach Marcus Freeman, position them well to handle any surprises the Huskies might present.

Moreover, the game being played at Notre Dame Stadium provides a significant home-field advantage. The energy from the fans, eager to see their team continue its strong start, will undoubtedly fuel the Irish. While weather conditions might introduce some variables, with cooler temperatures and potential rain, Notre Dame's focus on maintaining discipline and executing their game plan should see them through. Given these factors, the pick for the moneyline is confidently in favor of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, as they aim to solidify their top-five ranking and continue their winning streak.

Northern Illinois Huskies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Top Player Prop Picks

Conner Weigman Under 200.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (DraftKings)

Conner Weigman, despite being a top quarterback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, struggled significantly against Notre Dame's formidable defense in their previous matchup. The Irish defense held him to a career-low 28.0 PFF passing grade, showcasing their ability to stifle even the most promising quarterbacks. With Notre Dame's defense being a key factor in their rise to the No. 3 spot in Pro Football Focus' rankings, it's reasonable to expect a similar performance against Northern Illinois. The Huskies' defense, while competitive, does not possess the same level of threat as Notre Dame's, making it likely that Weigman will once again find it challenging to surpass the 200.5 passing yards mark.

Mitchell Evans Over 4.5 Receptions Receptions -115 (FanDuel)

Mitchell Evans, Notre Dame's All-American tight end, is expected to play a pivotal role in the Irish's offensive strategy against Northern Illinois. With the Huskies' defense posing unique challenges, particularly up front, Evans' ability to find openings and provide a reliable target for the quarterback will be crucial. Given Notre Dame's focus on maintaining their offensive momentum and Evans' proven track record, betting on him to exceed 4.5 receptions seems a solid choice. His involvement will be key in navigating the Huskies' defensive schemes and ensuring the Irish's continued success.

Notre Dame Defense Over 2.5 Sacks Total Sacks -120 (BetMGM)

Notre Dame's defense has already demonstrated its prowess by effectively neutralizing Texas A&M's offensive threats, including limiting Conner Weigman's impact. As they face Northern Illinois, a team known for its resilience but also its vulnerability against top-tier defenses, the Irish are well-positioned to capitalize on their defensive strengths. With the Huskies returning 18 starters, their offensive line will be tested against Notre Dame's aggressive defensive front. The Irish's ability to apply pressure and disrupt the Huskies' offensive rhythm makes the over 2.5 sacks prop a compelling pick, as they aim to replicate their dominant defensive performance from the previous week.