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Ball State vs. Miami College Football Week 3 Picks: Is the Total Too High?
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Eduardo Solano
- September 14, 2024
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College Football Pick: Over 54 (-110) at Bookmaker (visit our Bookmaker Review)
The Miami Hurricanes look to improve to 3-0 when they host the Ball State Cardinals on Saturday. Let’s analyze the current college football odds available at the top sportsbooks and go over all you need to know about this game.
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Ball State Cardinals vs. Miami Hurricanes
Saturday, September 14, 2024 – 05:55 PM ET at Hard Rock Stadium
Both Teams Have Plenty of Playmakers
Miami dominated Florida A&M on Saturday, securing a 56-9 victory. Cam Ward led the charge, throwing for 304 yards and three touchdowns without any interceptions, completing 20 of 26 passes. He also contributed on the ground, rushing four times for 13 yards and one touchdown.
Damien Martinez was effective in the run game, carrying the ball 11 times for 91 yards (8.3 yards per carry) and one touchdown, along with a 15-yard reception. Xavier Restrepo made an impact in the air, catching four passes for 104 yards and one touchdown.
On the other side, Ball State earned a 42-34 win over Missouri State on Saturday, with Kadin Semonza completing 28 of 38 passes for 262 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception.
Semonza also ran six times for 16 yards and a score. Braedon Sloan was key in the ground attack, rushing for 103 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries, while also catching six passes for 46 yards and another touchdown. Cam Pickett contributed with seven receptions for 69 yards.
The Pick
Miami is aiming for their third consecutive win to start the season, with Ward proving to be one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. Given Ball State’s struggles in defending against Missouri State, especially in the passing game, Miami’s potent offense should exploit those weaknesses.
The Ball State defense is in for a tougher challenge against Miami. However, the Ball State offense has shown potential and could pose a threat to the Miami defense. I expect Ball State to put together some successful drives, which could push the game total higher.
The Hurricanes have been relentless on offense, racking up 56 points against an FCS team last week and 97 total points in their first two games. There’s little indication that their momentum will slow down this weekend. Their upcoming road game against South Florida doesn’t appear to be a look-ahead spot, especially considering Ball State’s recent defensive struggles, having allowed 34 points to an FCS team in Week 2.
Since 2021, the Cardinals have surrendered at least 44 points to every power conference team they’ve faced, with those games averaging nearly 58 total points.
Given Miami’s explosive offense so far, they could potentially hit that mark by themselves. Still, Ball State is likely to contribute to the scoring as well. With four returning offensive linemen who each logged over 400 snaps and have experience playing at tough venues like Kentucky and Georgia, the Cardinals should be prepared for the moment.
Additionally, with their sizable receivers, Semonza has targets downfield if the line can hold off Miami’s pass rush.
College Football Pick: Over 54 (-110) at Bookmaker
*The line and/or odds on picks in this article might have moved since the content was commissioned. For updated line movements, visit BMR’s free betting odds product.
