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The Miami (OH) Redhawks come into this one limping, losing three of their last four, facing a Northern Illinois Huskies team fresh off a 24-1 come-from-behind victory over Western Michigan. Even after their recent ways, the Redhawks still have a shot at reaching bowl eligibility. Miami (OH) has more to play for in this one, but how do they match up against Northern Illinois?
Northern Illinois possesses a tough rushing offense that keeps the opposition guessing. The Huskies have a solid 1-2 punch in the backfield, with Harrison Waylee and Antario Brown taking turns slashing through would-be defenders. Waylee leads the team in rushing with 863 yards on the ground, while Brown leads the team in rushing TDs with six.
The Huskies have been playing QB carousel with four QBs taking snaps under center. Justin Lynch was the QB of note last week, and Lynch can be as effective as a runner as a passer.
The Redhawks have alternated QBs in their own right, with three QBs taking snaps this year. Brett Gabbert appears to be the stabilizing force under center for the Redhawks. Expect Gabbert to lean on his top pass-catcher WR Mac Hippenhammer.
The betting odds and predictions are below:
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Miami (OH) Redhawks vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Details
Fixture: Miami (OH) Redhawks @ Northern Illinois Huskies
Date and Time: Wednesday, November 16, 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Huskie Stadium, DeKalb, Illinois
Miami (OH) Redhawks vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Best Pick
I mentioned the Northern Illinois rushing attack earlier, and I believe that will be the biggest takeaway in this one. The Huskies try to run through or around a defense. The QB is always a threat to run as well. The Huskies' offensive line can grind down a defensive front seven with the best of them.
With a middling passing game from Miami (OH), look for Northern Illinois to take control of this game early. If you can find a reasonable prop bet for the Huskies team rushing total, I would lean into the narrative and take the Over.
Northern Illinois, Team Rushing Yards: Over
Miami (OH) Redhawks vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Final Prediction
At first glance, the Miami (OH) Redhawks have more motivation than Northern Illinois, as the Redhawks still have a shot at reaching a Bowl game.
Motivation only matters so much in this one, as I believe the Huskies are a tough match-up for Miami (OH). The Huskies ground-and-pound the Redhawks into submission. Take Northern Illinois at home to cover.
Northern Illinois Huskies -1.5 (-110)
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