Northern Illinois (7-5-0) at Fresno State (6-6-0)
- When: Dec 23 2024, 2:30 PM
- Where: Albertsons Stadium, Boise, ID
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Northern Illinois @ Fresno State
Moneyline
Northern Illinois -175
Fresno State +150
Northern Illinois @ Fresno State
Point Spread
Northern Illinois -3.5 (-115)
Fresno State 3.5 (-105)
Northern Illinois @ Fresno State
Total
Over 39.5 (-110)
Under 39.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Starting QB:
Northern Illinois: Josh Holst
Fresno State: Joshua Wood & Jayden Mandal
Team Stats
| Northern Illinois | Fresno State | |
| 7-5 | Record | 6-6 |
| 3-3 | Away | 2-4 |
| 4-6-2 | ATS | 6-5-1 |
| 5-5-2 | O/U | 4-7-1 |
Last Matchup:
Northern Illinois 40-17, December 18th, 2010
Game Preview
For a few hours on Monday afternoon, the ever-spinning carousel of college football will take a pause as Northern Illinois (7-5) and Fresno State (6-6) face off in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl in Boise, Idaho. While neither team enters at full strength, the game still offers a glimpse of tradition and a chance for seniors to leave their mark.
Quarterback Carousel and Transfer Portal Impact
Both programs will take the field without their starting quarterbacks and several other key players due to the transfer portal. NIU’s Ethan Hampton, who spearheaded the Huskies’ stunning 16-14 win over then-No. 5 Notre Dame, has transferred to Illinois after a brief commitment to Wake Forest. In his absence, redshirt freshman Josh Holst will make just his second start. Holst showed flashes of potential in his debut against Toledo, completing 22 of 46 passes for 210 yards and adding 48 rushing yards.
Fresno State is also dealing with a quarterback shuffle. Mikey Keene, who led the Mountain West with 2,892 passing yards this season, entered the transfer portal and won’t suit up. The Bulldogs have listed Joshua Wood and Jayden Mandal as co-starters. Wood’s mobility—five rushing touchdowns this season—could give him the edge.
Programs in Transition
This bowl game arrives during a transitional phase for both programs. Fresno State is set to join the Pac-12 by July 2026, while NIU is rumored to be considering a move to the Mountain West. Adding to Fresno State’s uncertainty, interim head coach Tim Skipper will lead the team one final time before handing the reins to Matt Entz, recently hired from USC.
Despite the upheaval, the Huskies bring a school-record 30 seniors to Boise, aiming to cap their careers with a victory on the iconic blue turf.
What to Expect on Game Day
Northern Illinois head coach Thomas Hammock remains optimistic about his team’s resilience and preparation. Holst’s dual-threat ability adds a dynamic element to NIU’s offense, which Hammock believes can exploit Fresno State’s uncertainty under center.
Fresno State’s interim coach Skipper acknowledges the adversity his team has faced but embraces the opportunity to compete in the postseason. The Bulldogs’ depth chart raises questions for NIU, with both Wood and Mandal bringing unique skill sets that could challenge the Huskies’ defense.
Betting Angle
With both teams navigating significant player losses, expect a game filled with unpredictability. NIU has relied on a balanced attack and solid preparation, but Fresno State’s Wildcat potential with Joshua Wood could provide the edge. Look for a low-scoring affair as both teams adjust on the fly.
Whether you’re tuning in for the drama or placing a wager, this year’s Famous Idaho Potato Bowl promises intrigue as tradition meets transition on Boise’s blue turf.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Northern Illinois 20-16
The Pick: Northern Illinois -3½ (-115) & Under 39½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357
- Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
