Central Michigan vs Northern Illinois Picks and Prediction – 11/30/2024

The Central Michigan Chippewas will face the Northern Illinois Huskies on November 30, 2024, at Huskie Stadium in DeKalb, Illinois. Both teams will close their regular seasons in this MAC West division matchup, with Northern Illinois (6-5) aiming to secure bowl eligibility and Central Michigan (4-7) looking to end a difficult season on a high note. Kickoff is set for 2:30 PM CT, with coverage on CBS Sports Network​. Get in on all the football action with our free NCAAF picks.

Northern Illinois has leaned on quarterback Ethan Hampton, who has thrown for 1,431 yards and 12 touchdowns, supported by a solid ground game led by Gavin Williams with 676 rushing yards. Defensively, the Huskies have been reliable, holding opponents to 18.6 points per game, thanks to strong performances from players like Devonte O'Malley, who has recorded eight sacks​.

Central Michigan has struggled with consistency, losing five of their last six games. Quarterback Joe Labas leads the offense with 1,114 passing yards, while Marion Lukes has provided 710 rushing yards. The Chippewas have been competitive on the ground, averaging 174.1 rushing yards per game, but their defense has allowed 30.2 points per game, putting them at a disadvantage against the Huskies’ balanced attack.

Northern Illinois has an incredible rushing attack for the conference, and that alone will be enough to take down CMU. The Huskies were able to beat Notre Dame earlier this season behind their ability to run the ball and control the time of possession. NIU will do the same here. Prediction: NIU wins 28-10.