Arkansas State (7-5-0) at Bowling Green (7-5-0)
- When: Dec 26 2024, 9:00 PM
- Where: Hancock Whitney Stadium, Mobile, AL
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Arkansas State @ Bowling Green
Moneyline
Arkansas State +270
Bowling Green -340
Arkansas State @ Bowling Green
Point Spread
Arkansas State 9.0 (-110)
Bowling Green -9.0 (-110)
Arkansas State @ Bowling Green
Total
Over 53.5 (-110)
Under 53.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Starting QB:
Arkansas State: Jaylen Raynor 2562 Yds
Bowling Green: Connor Bazelak 2654 Yds
Team Stats
| Arkansas State | Bowling Green | |
| 7-5 | Record | 7-5 |
| 2-4 | Away | 4-2 |
| 5–0 | ATS | 6-6-0 |
| 6-6-0 | O/U | 4-8-0 |
Game Preview
The Bowling Green Falcons and Arkansas State Red Wolves face off in the 68 Ventures Bowl on Thursday in Mobile, Alabama. With Bowling Green favored by 9 points and the total set at 53, the game offers intriguing betting angles for those looking to wager.
Bowling Green: Seniors Seek a Storybook Ending
The Falcons (7-5) are riding high after breaking a streak of seven consecutive losing seasons that plagued the program from 2016-2022. Head coach Scot Loeffler is thrilled for his senior class, a group that endured what he calls Bowling Green’s “dark era.” The team now aims to cap its turnaround with its first bowl win since 2014.
One of the game’s biggest storylines is tight end Harold Fannin Jr., a record-setting star who is rewriting the FBS history books. Fannin, who already has 100 receptions for 1,342 yards and nine touchdowns this season, is on the verge of breaking two major records for tight ends: single-season receiving yards (11 yards needed) and receptions (12 catches needed).
“He’s phenomenal, not just as a player but as a teammate,” said linebacker Brock Horne. “We’re excited to see him suit up one last time.”
On defense, the Falcons have been rock solid, allowing just 20.3 points per game. This defensive prowess, paired with quarterback Connor Bazelak’s 2,654 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, has made Bowling Green a formidable opponent.
Betting Angle: With a defense this consistent and an offense led by a record-setting star, Bowling Green looks capable of covering the 9-point spread, especially against a struggling Arkansas State defense.
Arkansas State: Resilient but Vulnerable
The Red Wolves (7-5) surged late in the season, winning four of their final six games to secure bowl eligibility. Head coach Butch Jones, a veteran of bowl victories with Cincinnati and Tennessee, has guided Arkansas State to its best season since 2019.
However, the Red Wolves’ defense has been their Achilles’ heel, giving up 32.3 points and 460.7 yards per game—ranking near the bottom of FBS. Injuries on the defensive line have further weakened their ability to stop opponents, though Jones insists the team is as healthy as it has been all year.
On offense, quarterback Jaylen Raynor leads the charge with 2,562 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Running back Zak Wallace adds balance with 622 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. While the offense has shown flashes of brilliance, it will need to be at its best to keep pace with Bowling Green’s efficient attack.
Betting Angle: Arkansas State’s porous defense makes it difficult to trust them to cover the spread, especially against a disciplined Bowling Green team.
Key Matchups to Watch
– Harold Fannin Jr. vs. Arkansas State Defense
Fannin has been nearly unstoppable this season, and with the Red Wolves’ defensive struggles, he could have a record-breaking game.
– Connor Bazelak vs. Red Wolves’ Secondary
Bazelak’s ability to spread the ball around could exploit Arkansas State’s 460.7 yards allowed per game, giving Bowling Green a significant edge.
– Arkansas State’s Ground Game vs. Bowling Green’s Defense
The Red Wolves will need big performances from Raynor and Wallace to crack Bowling Green’s tough run defense.
Predictions and Best Bets
– Spread: Bowling Green -9.0
With a superior defense and an offense led by Fannin, the Falcons should control this game and cover the spread.
– Total: Over 53
While Bowling Green’s defense is strong, Arkansas State’s offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities suggest this game could exceed the total.
– Player Prop to Watch: Harold Fannin Jr. Over 99.5 Receiving Yards
Fannin is primed for a record-setting performance and should easily clear this mark against a weak Red Wolves defense.
Conclusion
Bowling Green’s balance on both sides of the ball, paired with Arkansas State’s defensive struggles, makes the Falcons the safer bet. Expect Bowling Green to dominate and cover the spread, with the game likely hitting the over due to Arkansas State’s offensive contributions.
68 Ventures Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Bowling Green 34-20
The Pick: Bowling Green -10 & Over 53½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- 68 Ventures Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
