Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/19/2024 7:30 PM EST

We have your Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Western Michigan Broncos hit the road to face the Central Michigan Chippewas.

Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Western Michigan Broncos -220 (FanDuel) / Central Michigan Chippewas +200 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: 6.5 - Western Michigan Broncos -110 (bet365) / Central Michigan Chippewas -110 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 56.5 - Under -108 (DraftKings) / Over -108 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 11/19/2024
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Kelly/Shorts Stadium (Mount Pleasant, MI)
TV: ESPN2

Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas Preview

The Western Michigan Broncos and Central Michigan Chippewas are set to clash in a pivotal Mid-American Conference matchup, with both teams eager to reverse their recent fortunes. The Broncos, sitting at 5-5 overall and 4-2 in the MAC, are on the cusp of bowl eligibility and will be motivated to secure a victory on the road. Despite their recent setbacks, including a 31-13 loss to Bowling Green, Western Michigan has shown offensive prowess, particularly through the arm of senior quarterback Hayden Wolff. Wolff has been a consistent force, completing 67.8% of his passes for 1,962 yards and 16 touchdowns this season. Complementing Wolff's aerial attack is junior running back Jaden Nixon, who has been a revelation on the ground, amassing 869 yards and 12 touchdowns with an impressive 7.1 yards per carry.

On the other side, the Central Michigan Chippewas have endured a challenging season, currently holding a 3-7 record with a 1-5 mark in conference play. The Chippewas have struggled offensively, particularly after losing their starting quarterback, which has contributed to their five-game losing streak. Senior running back Marion Lukes has been a bright spot, rushing for 617 yards and five touchdowns, but the team has found it difficult to maintain offensive consistency. Junior wide receiver Chris Parker leads the receiving corps with 308 yards and three touchdowns, yet the passing game has been hampered by instability at the quarterback position.

Defensively, both teams have their vulnerabilities. Western Michigan's defense has been porous, allowing numerous explosive plays, which could provide an opportunity for Central Michigan to exploit, especially on the ground. However, the Chippewas' defense has also been susceptible, particularly against the run, which plays into the strengths of the Broncos' dynamic rushing attack. With the Victory Cannon Trophy on the line, both teams will be eager to assert their dominance in this storied rivalry, but the Broncos' balanced offensive attack and the Chippewas' recent struggles suggest a challenging evening for the home team.

Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas Pick: Central Michigan Chippewas Against the Spread

In this heated rivalry matchup, the Central Michigan Chippewas are poised to cover the spread against the Western Michigan Broncos. Despite their struggles this season, the Chippewas have shown resilience at home, boasting a 3-2 record at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. The Broncos, on the other hand, have been inconsistent on the road, with a 2-4 away record, which could play into Central Michigan's favor.

Central Michigan's defense, while vulnerable, has a solid secondary that could challenge Western Michigan's passing game. The Chippewas have allowed only two interceptions this season, but their ability to limit explosive plays through the air could be crucial against a Broncos team that relies heavily on quarterback Hayden Wolff's arm. Additionally, the Chippewas' rushing attack, led by Marion Lukes, has the potential to exploit Western Michigan's porous run defense, which ranks outside the top 120 in Rush Success Rate allowed. This could help Central Michigan control the clock and keep the game within reach.

Moreover, the weather conditions in Mount Pleasant, with light rain and wind, could further hinder Western Michigan's passing efficiency, forcing them to rely more on their ground game. This plays into the Chippewas' hands, as they have shown the ability to create running lanes and generate explosive plays on the ground, ranking 24th in Rushing EPA. With the Victory Cannon Trophy on the line, expect Central Michigan to put forth a spirited effort to keep the game competitive and cover the spread against their in-state rivals.

Western Michigan Broncos at Central Michigan Chippewas Top Player Prop Picks

Hayden Wolff Over 1.5 Passing TDs +105 (bet365)

Hayden Wolff has been a consistent performer for the Western Michigan Broncos, throwing for 16 touchdowns this season. Despite a recent dip in form, Wolff's ability to find the end zone remains a key component of the Broncos' offensive strategy. The Central Michigan defense, while having a solid secondary, has struggled against explosive plays, particularly through the air. With Wolff's track record and the Chippewas' vulnerabilities, the over on 1.5 passing touchdowns presents a favorable opportunity, especially with the odds at +105.

Jaden Nixon Over 74.5 Rushing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Jaden Nixon has been a standout in the Broncos' backfield, averaging an impressive 7.1 yards per carry and closing in on a 1,000-yard season. The Central Michigan defense has been particularly susceptible to the run, ranking outside the top 120 in Rush Success Rate allowed. This matchup is tailor-made for Nixon to exploit, as the Chippewas have allowed numerous explosive plays on the ground. Given Nixon's form and the defensive weaknesses of Central Michigan, the over on 74.5 rushing yards is a strong play.

Marion Lukes Over 18.5 Longest Rush -115 (bet365)

Marion Lukes has been a bright spot for the Chippewas, showcasing his ability to break off significant runs. With a solid offensive line creating opportunities, Lukes has the potential to exploit a Western Michigan defense that ranks poorly in allowing explosive plays. The Broncos' defense has struggled to contain dynamic rushers, making Lukes' over on a longest rush of 18.5 yards a compelling proposition. Given the Broncos' defensive vulnerabilities and Lukes' capability to generate big plays, this prop bet offers value.