Bowling Green vs Western Michigan Picks and Prediction – 1/8/2025

The Bowling Green Falcons (5-8, 0-1 MAC) face off against the Western Michigan Broncos (3-10, 0-1 MAC) in a Mid-American Conference matchup. Bowling Green enters following a 71-68 loss to Akron, while Western Michigan is looking to rebound from a 76-70 defeat to Toledo. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Bowling Green’s offense averages 80.0 points per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Forward Marcus Johnson leads the team, scoring 16.5 points per game, shooting 48.0% from the floor, and 86.7% at the free-throw line. Guard Javontae Campbell distributes the ball well with 3.2 assists per game, while forward Jamai Felt contributes 5.1 rebounds. The Falcons excel at creating turnovers, averaging 7.7 steals per game, though shot-blocking remains a weak point at 2.5 blocks per contest.

Defensively, Bowling Green allows 75.7 points per game, relying on quick hands and defensive pressure to disrupt opponents. Campbell leads the team with 3.2 steals per game, while Felt anchors the paint with 0.8 blocks. Despite struggles in containing high-scoring offenses, the ability to force turnovers often compensates for defensive lapses. They need to shore up the perimeter defense to limit Western Michigan’s three-point opportunities.

Western Michigan has struggled offensively, averaging just 70.4 points per game and shooting 42.1% from the field. Guard Markhi Strickland leads the Broncos with 11.6 points per game, while forward Owen Lobsinger dominates the boards with 7.4 rebounds. Despite the scoring struggles, the Broncos average 12.7 assists per game, showcasing solid ball movement. However, free-throw shooting is an issue, with Strickland hitting only 50.0% from the line.

Defensively, the Broncos surrender 74.2 points per game and have issues protecting the rim, averaging just 2.4 blocks. Guard JaVaughn Hannah leads the team with 1.4 steals, but the Broncos lack consistency in forcing turnovers. The rebounding strength, led by Lobsinger, provides second-chance opportunities, but the defense must improve to contain Bowling Green’s potent attack.

Bowling Green’s higher scoring average and better shooting give them the edge in this matchup. Western Michigan’s defensive struggles and inconsistent scoring make it difficult for them to keep pace. Expect Bowling Green’s Marcus Johnson to lead the offense and take control late in the game. Final Score Prediction: Bowling Green Falcons win 78-70.