Eastern Michigan vs Ball State Picks and Prediction – 2/24/2024

[affiliate geotargeted toplist=”Sports” brand=”BetMGM”]

In a Mid-American Conference clash, the Eastern Michigan Eagles take on the Ball State Cardinals in what promises to be a compelling matchup. With the Eagles looking to improve on a 10-16 record and the Cardinals aiming to build on a 13-13 standing, both teams have much at stake. As they face off at 1:00 PM on ESPN+, each side will be eager to assert dominance and climb the conference rankings. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

The Eastern Michigan Eagles have endured a challenging season, with a 10-16 overall record and a 3-10 mark in conference play. Despite the struggles, the Eagles have shown flashes of competitiveness, notably in a recent win against Bowling Green. Tyson Acuff leads the team with an impressive 22.0 points and 2.8 assists per game, while Julius Ellerbe dominates the boards with 4.8 rebounds per game. 

However, the Eagles' offensive and defensive woes are evident, ranking 317th in points per game (67.7) and 275th in points allowed (75.1). Shooting percentages from the field (43.7%) and beyond the arc (31.1%) reflect a team in desperate need of consistency.

On the other side, the Ball State Cardinals hold a balanced 13-13 overall record and a 5-8 tally in conference games. Led by Basheer Jihad's remarkable 19.1 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, the Cardinals boast a more potent offense, averaging 74.0 points per game. Shooting accuracy, particularly from three-point range where they rank 17th with a 37.7% success rate, could pose a significant threat to the Eagles.

Ball State's defense, allowing 70.9 points per game, will need to tighten up against Eastern Michigan's key players. The loss of Zane Doughty and Ethan Brittain-Watts to season-ending injuries is a blow to the Cardinals, yet they have shown