Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/28/2024 1:30 PM EST

We have your Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Ball State Cardinals hit the road to face the James Madison Dukes.

Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Ball State Cardinals +800 (DraftKings) / James Madison Dukes -1250 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -19.5 - Ball State Cardinals -105 (BetMGM) / -19.0 - James Madison Dukes -110 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 57.5 - Under -115 (BetMGM) / 56.5 - Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 9/28/2024
Time: 1:30 PM EST
Location: Bridgeforth Stadium (Harrisonburg, VA)
TV: ESPN+

Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes Preview

The James Madison Dukes are riding high after a historic victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels, where they shattered records with a 70-50 win. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III was the star of the show, throwing for 388 yards and five touchdowns while also rushing for 99 yards and two additional scores. His performance was complemented by standout plays from receivers Omarion Dollison and Cam Ross, who combined for over 230 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The Dukes' aggressive play-calling, including a successful onside kick and a blocked punt returned for a touchdown, showcased their fearless approach and ability to capitalize on key moments.

On the other side, the Ball State Cardinals are looking to bounce back from a narrow 37-34 loss to Central Michigan. Quarterback Kadin Semonza had a solid outing, completing 30 of 40 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Braedon Sloan contributed with 94 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Tanner Koziol was a reliable target with nine receptions for 112 yards and a score. Despite their offensive efforts, the Cardinals' defense will need to tighten up to contain the high-powered Dukes offense.

As the Dukes prepare to host the Cardinals at Bridgeforth Stadium, they are favored by a significant margin, reflecting their recent form and home advantage. James Madison's explosive offense and strategic ingenuity make them a formidable opponent, and they will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record. Meanwhile, Ball State will aim to exploit any defensive lapses and leverage their own offensive weapons to challenge the Dukes. This matchup promises to be an intriguing contest of contrasting styles, with James Madison's aggressive tactics set against Ball State's resilience and determination.

Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes Pick: James Madison Dukes Against the Spread

The James Madison Dukes are entering this matchup with significant momentum following their record-breaking 70-50 victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels. This performance was not only a testament to their offensive prowess but also highlighted their strategic ingenuity, as evidenced by their successful onside kick and a blocked punt returned for a touchdown. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III was instrumental in this triumph, amassing 388 passing yards and five touchdowns, alongside 99 rushing yards and two additional scores. His ability to orchestrate such a dynamic offense, supported by standout receivers Omarion Dollison and Cam Ross, who combined for over 230 receiving yards and two touchdowns, makes the Dukes a formidable force.

On the other hand, the Ball State Cardinals are coming off a narrow 37-34 loss to Central Michigan. While their offense showed promise, with quarterback Kadin Semonza throwing for 285 yards and three touchdowns, and Braedon Sloan contributing 94 rushing yards and a touchdown, their defense struggled to contain the opposition. This defensive vulnerability could be a significant disadvantage against a high-powered James Madison offense that has demonstrated an ability to exploit defensive lapses effectively.

Given the Dukes' recent form and their home advantage at Bridgeforth Stadium, they are rightly favored by a significant margin. Their aggressive tactics and ability to capitalize on key moments make them a strong pick against the spread. The Cardinals will need to tighten their defense considerably to stand a chance, but the Dukes' explosive offense and strategic depth suggest they are well-positioned to cover the spread in this matchup.

Ball State Cardinals at James Madison Dukes Top Player Prop Picks

Alonza Barnett III Over 388.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (Caesars)

Alonza Barnett III has been a revelation for the James Madison Dukes, showcasing his ability to dominate through the air with a staggering 388 passing yards against North Carolina. His performance was not a one-off, as he has consistently demonstrated his prowess in orchestrating a high-octane offense. With receivers like Omarion Dollison and Cam Ross, who combined for over 230 receiving yards in their last outing, Barnett has the weapons to exceed this passing yardage line once again. The Ball State defense, which struggled to contain Central Michigan, allowing 285 passing yards, will face a formidable challenge in trying to limit Barnett's aerial assault.

Omarion Dollison Over 125.5 Receiving Yards Receiving Yards -110 (DraftKings)

Omarion Dollison has emerged as a key target for Barnett, evidenced by his impressive 125 receiving yards against North Carolina. His ability to stretch the field and make big plays is a crucial component of the Dukes' offensive strategy. Given Ball State's defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the secondary, Dollison is well-positioned to replicate or even surpass his previous performance. The Cardinals' defense allowed 112 receiving yards to a single player in their last game, indicating potential struggles against a dynamic receiver like Dollison.

Kadin Semonza Over 285.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

Kadin Semonza has shown his capability to lead the Ball State offense effectively, as demonstrated by his 285 passing yards and three touchdowns against Central Michigan. Despite the loss, Semonza's performance was a bright spot, and he will be looking to build on that against a James Madison defense that, while aggressive, has shown susceptibility to high yardage games. With reliable targets like Tanner Koziol, who recorded 112 receiving yards in the previous game, Semonza has the tools to exceed this passing yardage line, especially if the game turns into a shootout.