Western Michigan vs Ball State Picks and Prediction – 10/5/2024

Western Michigan Broncos (1-3) face the Ball State Cardinals (1-3) on October 5th in a Mid-American Conference clash. Both teams are coming off tough losses, with the Broncos falling 27-20 to Marshall and the Cardinals suffering a 63-7 blowout against James Madison. Each squad looks to rebound and pick up its second win of the season. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Western Michigan’s offense has seen mixed success, averaging 28.3 points per game. Quarterback Hayden Wolff leads the way with 643 passing yards, 4 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. Running back Jalen Nixon has been a reliable weapon, rushing for 360 yards and 3 touchdowns. Wide receiver Anthony Sambucci tops the receiving corps with 212 yards and a score. The Broncos' offense will be looking to bounce back against a weak Ball State defense.

Defensively, the Broncos have struggled, allowing 35.5 points per game. Linebacker Davon Willis leads the team with 34 total tackles, and the defense has managed 8 sacks, but the secondary has underperformed, failing to force a single interception. They’ll need a much stronger performance to contain Ball State’s air attack and reduce the big plays that have been hurting them.

Ball State enters the game with similar struggles on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Kiael Semonza has thrown for 826 yards and 8 touchdowns, but he’s also been intercepted 5 times. Running back Marquez Sloan has contributed 282 rushing yards, while tight end Tanner Koziol has 289 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. The Cardinals’ offense must cut down on turnovers and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Ball State has allowed a staggering 44 points per game and is coming off a performance where they gave up over 500 yards. Linebacker Kahari Newson leads the defense with 18 tackles, but the Cardinals have recorded just 5 sacks and 1 interception all season. The defense must step up to limit the Broncos' run game and avoid giving up big plays.

Western Michigan's more balanced offense gives them the edge in this matchup. The Broncos should capitalize on Ball State's defensive issues, particularly with a strong rushing attack. Final Score Prediction: Western Michigan Broncos win 31-21.