Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/19/2024 7:00 PM EST

We have your Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Ball State Cardinals hit the road to face the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Ball State Cardinals +1300 (BetMGM) / Vanderbilt Commodores -3000 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: -26.5 - Ball State Cardinals -110 (bet365) / Vanderbilt Commodores -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 58.5 - Under -110 (bet365) / Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: FirstBank Stadium (Nashville, TN)
TV: ESPN+

Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores Preview

The Vanderbilt Commodores are set to host the Ball State Cardinals at FirstBank Stadium in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Commodores, riding high on a two-game winning streak, have shown remarkable resilience and improvement this season. With a 4-2 record, Vanderbilt has already made headlines by upsetting powerhouse Alabama and securing a gritty victory over Kentucky. Quarterback Diego Pavia has been instrumental in these successes, demonstrating efficiency and poise under pressure. His recent performances, including a 143-yard, two-touchdown game against Kentucky, have been pivotal in Vanderbilt's resurgence.

On the other side, the Ball State Cardinals enter the contest with a 2-4 record, having narrowly edged out Kent State in their last outing. Quarterback Kadin Semonza has shown flashes of potential, throwing for 215 yards and a touchdown against the Golden Flashes. However, the Cardinals have struggled to find consistency, particularly against stronger opponents. Running back Braedon Sloan has been a bright spot, contributing both on the ground and through the air, but the team will need a more cohesive effort to challenge the Commodores.

Vanderbilt's defense, bolstered by increased depth and standout performances from players like Miles Capers, who recently returned to the sideline after a neck injury scare, will look to stifle Ball State's offensive efforts. The Commodores have been effective in controlling the clock and minimizing penalties, key factors in their recent victories. With the home crowd behind them and momentum on their side, Vanderbilt is poised to continue their winning ways.

As the game approaches, all eyes will be on how the Commodores manage their newfound success and whether the Cardinals can rise to the occasion against a formidable SEC opponent. The matchup promises to be a test of endurance and strategy, with Vanderbilt aiming to solidify their position as a rising force in college football.

Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores Pick: Total Points Under

As the Vanderbilt Commodores prepare to face the Ball State Cardinals, the betting line for total points is set at 58.5. Given the recent performances and trends, the under appears to be a compelling choice. Vanderbilt's recent games have been characterized by strong defensive showings and controlled offensive play. In their last two victories against Alabama and Kentucky, the Commodores have relied heavily on their defense, which has shown increased depth and resilience. Notably, Vanderbilt held Kentucky to just 13 points, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses.

Quarterback Diego Pavia has been efficient, but the Commodores' offensive strategy has not been about high-scoring affairs. Instead, they have focused on time of possession and minimizing mistakes, as evidenced by their improved discipline in penalties. This approach has allowed them to control the pace of the game, keeping scores relatively low. Against Kentucky, Vanderbilt managed to secure a win with only 20 points on the board, further emphasizing their defensive prowess and strategic play-calling.

On the other hand, Ball State has struggled to find consistency, particularly against stronger opponents. While they managed a narrow victory over Kent State, their offensive output has not been overwhelming. Quarterback Kadin Semonza has shown potential, but the Cardinals have yet to demonstrate the ability to consistently score against formidable defenses like Vanderbilt's. With Vanderbilt's defense likely to dominate the game and their offense focused on efficiency rather than explosiveness, the total points are expected to stay under the set line of 58.5.

Ball State Cardinals at Vanderbilt Commodores Top Player Prop Picks

Diego Pavia Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns -110 (BetMGM)

Diego Pavia has been a revelation for the Vanderbilt Commodores, leading them to significant victories over Alabama and Kentucky. His efficiency and poise under pressure have been instrumental in Vanderbilt's resurgence. In the recent game against Kentucky, Pavia threw for two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to find the end zone even against formidable defenses. With Ball State's defense struggling to find consistency, Pavia is poised to exploit their vulnerabilities. Given his recent form and the Commodores' offensive strategy, betting on Pavia to throw over 1.5 touchdowns seems a solid choice.

Kadin Semonza Under 215.5 Passing Yards -110 (bet365)

Kadin Semonza has shown potential for Ball State, but his performances have been inconsistent, particularly against stronger opponents. In their last outing, Semonza managed 215 passing yards against Kent State, a team with a less formidable defense than Vanderbilt. The Commodores have demonstrated increased depth and resilience on defense, effectively stifling offenses like Kentucky's. With Vanderbilt's defense likely to dominate and control the game, Semonza may struggle to reach his passing yardage line, making the under a compelling pick.

Braedon Sloan Over 0.5 Rushing Touchdowns +150 (BetMGM)

Braedon Sloan has been a bright spot for Ball State, contributing significantly both on the ground and through the air. He scored two rushing touchdowns in their recent win over Kent State, highlighting his ability to find the end zone. While Vanderbilt's defense is formidable, Sloan's versatility and knack for scoring make him a threat in the red zone. With Ball State likely to rely on Sloan to break through Vanderbilt's defensive line, betting on him to score at least one rushing touchdown offers value, especially at favorable odds.