Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/14/2024 7:00 PM EST

We have your Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers hit the road to face the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -300 (BetMGM) / Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders +240 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: 7.5 - Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -110 (BetMGM) / Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 54.5 - Under -110 (BetRivers) / Over -110 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 9/14/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium (Murfreesboro, TN)
TV: ESPN+

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Preview

The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are set to face off against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders in a Conference USA showdown that promises to be a compelling matchup. Both teams enter the game with identical 1-1 records, but their paths to this point have been markedly different. The Hilltoppers are coming off a dominant 31-0 victory over the Eastern Kentucky Colonels, showcasing a balanced offensive attack led by quarterback TJ Finley. Finley was impressive, throwing for 351 yards and a touchdown, completing 69.2% of his passes. His connection with wide receiver Kisean Johnson, who hauled in six receptions for 119 yards, will be crucial as they look to exploit the Blue Raiders' defense.

On the other side, the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders are looking to rebound from a tough 52-3 loss to the Ole Miss Rebels. Quarterback Nicholas Vattiato struggled against a formidable Ole Miss defense, managing 209 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. The Blue Raiders will need to find a way to ignite their offense, particularly in the running game, where Terry Wilkins was limited to just 19 yards on seven carries against the Rebels. The Blue Raiders' defense will also need to tighten up after allowing significant yardage in their previous outing.

As the Hilltoppers travel to Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium, they are favored by 7.5 points, according to BetMGM. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, and fans can expect a competitive clash as both teams aim to gain momentum in the early stages of the season. With Western Kentucky's potent passing game and Middle Tennessee's need for a defensive resurgence, this matchup will be pivotal in setting the tone for their respective campaigns.

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Pick: Total Points Under

As we analyze the upcoming matchup between the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, the case for the total points going under 54.5 becomes compelling. The Hilltoppers showcased a dominant defensive performance in their recent 31-0 victory over Eastern Kentucky, indicating their ability to stifle opposing offenses. This defensive prowess, combined with their balanced offensive attack led by quarterback TJ Finley, suggests that Western Kentucky can control the pace of the game, potentially limiting scoring opportunities for both teams.

On the other hand, the Blue Raiders are coming off a challenging 52-3 loss to Ole Miss, where their offense struggled significantly. Quarterback Nicholas Vattiato was unable to find the end zone, and the running game was virtually non-existent, with Terry Wilkins managing only 19 yards on seven carries. This lack of offensive production against a strong defense like Ole Miss raises concerns about Middle Tennessee's ability to contribute significantly to the total score.

Given these factors, the Hilltoppers' ability to maintain defensive pressure and the Blue Raiders' recent offensive struggles, the likelihood of a high-scoring affair seems diminished. The under 54.5 points is a prudent pick, as both teams may find it challenging to surpass this total, especially with Western Kentucky's defense poised to replicate its recent success and Middle Tennessee seeking to find its footing offensively.