Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/30/2024 7:30 PM EST
We have your Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Kennesaw State Owls hit the road to face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.
Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: Kennesaw State Owls +1200 (bet365) / Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -2400 (bet365)
Best Spread Odds: -24.5 - Kennesaw State Owls -110 (BetMGM) / -24.0 - Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -105 (ESPN BET)
Best Total Odds: 49.5 - Under -110 (FanDuel) / 49.0 - Over -110 (DraftKings)
Game Info
Date: 10/30/2024
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium (Bowling Green, KY)
TV: ESPN2
Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Preview
The Kennesaw State Owls, fresh off a monumental upset against Liberty, are set to face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in a Conference USA clash. The Owls, who have struggled throughout their inaugural FBS season, finally found their footing with a stunning 27-24 victory over Liberty, a team that had been undefeated. This win not only marked Kennesaw State's first victory of the season but also their first as an FBS program, providing a much-needed confidence boost for the team.
Under the guidance of head coach Brian Bohannon, the Owls have shown resilience despite a challenging start. Quarterback Davis Bryson, who was benched earlier in the season, made a triumphant return against Liberty, completing 16 of 20 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown. His performance was instrumental in the Owls' offensive resurgence, which saw them amass a season-high 323 yards without committing a turnover. Running back Michael Benefield also played a crucial role, leading the ground attack with 54 yards and a touchdown.
On the other side, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers have been a formidable force in the conference, boasting a 5-2 record. Led by sophomore quarterback Caden Veltkamp, the Hilltoppers have excelled in the passing game, ranking first in the conference with 279.1 passing yards per game. Veltkamp's ability to distribute the ball effectively has been a key factor in Western Kentucky's offensive success, which averages 28.7 points per game.
Defensively, the Hilltoppers have been solid, allowing 387.7 yards per game, and they will look to capitalize on Kennesaw State's previous offensive inconsistencies. However, the Owls' recent performance against Liberty suggests they may have turned a corner, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup.
As the Owls aim to build on their newfound momentum, the Hilltoppers will be eager to maintain their strong form and continue their push for conference supremacy. With both teams having much to prove, this game promises to be a captivating encounter under the lights at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium.
Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Pick: Total Points Over
As we look ahead to the matchup between the Kennesaw State Owls and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, the potential for a high-scoring affair is evident. The Hilltoppers have been a powerhouse on offense this season, ranking first in the conference in passing offense with 279.1 yards per game and third in scoring offense, averaging 28.7 points per game. Sophomore quarterback Caden Veltkamp has been instrumental in this success, showcasing his ability to effectively distribute the ball to a talented group of playmakers. This offensive prowess suggests that Western Kentucky is more than capable of putting up significant points against a Kennesaw State defense that has struggled at times, allowing an average of 31.1 points per game.
On the other side, Kennesaw State's recent offensive resurgence cannot be overlooked. The Owls are coming off a season-high 323 yards of offense in their stunning upset over Liberty, a game in which they did not commit a single turnover. Quarterback Davis Bryson's return to form, completing 16 of 20 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown, was a key factor in this turnaround. Additionally, the Owls' running game, led by Michael Benefield, has shown the ability to contribute effectively, adding another dimension to their attack.
Given these factors, the over on the total points line of 49.0 appears to be a strong play. Western Kentucky's high-powered offense is likely to continue its impressive form, while Kennesaw State's newfound confidence and offensive momentum suggest they can contribute to a higher-scoring game than their season averages might indicate. With both teams having much to prove and the potential for explosive plays on both sides, this matchup is poised to exceed the projected total, making the over a compelling pick.
Kennesaw State Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Top Player Prop Picks
Caden Veltkamp Over 2.5 Passing TDs +135 (bet365)
Caden Veltkamp has been a standout performer for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers this season, leading the conference in passing offense with an impressive 279.1 yards per game. His ability to find the end zone has been a key factor in the Hilltoppers' offensive success, as evidenced by his 14 touchdown passes this season. With the Kennesaw State Owls allowing an average of 31.1 points per game, Veltkamp is poised to exploit their defensive vulnerabilities. Given his track record and the Hilltoppers' high-powered offense, betting on Veltkamp to exceed 2.5 passing touchdowns at +135 odds presents a compelling opportunity.
Michael Benefield Over 36.5 Rushing Yards -114 (FanDuel)
Michael Benefield has been a consistent contributor to the Kennesaw State Owls' ground game, rushing for 45-plus yards in three consecutive games, including a pivotal 54-yard performance in their upset victory over Liberty. As the Owls look to build on their newfound momentum, Benefield's role in the offense is likely to be significant. With the Hilltoppers allowing 387.7 yards per game, Benefield has a favorable matchup to surpass the 36.5 rushing yards line. His recent form and the Owls' reliance on the run game make this prop a strong play.
Davis Bryson Over 125.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)
After being benched earlier in the season, Davis Bryson made a triumphant return against Liberty, completing 16 of 20 passes for 189 yards. This performance marked a turning point for the Owls' offense, which had struggled to find consistency. With Bryson back under center and the Owls riding the wave of their first FBS victory, he is well-positioned to continue his upward trajectory. The Hilltoppers' defense, while solid, has shown vulnerabilities, and Bryson's recent form suggests he can exceed the modest line of 125.5 passing yards. This prop offers value given Bryson's potential to lead the Owls' aerial attack.