Buffalo vs. Eastern Michigan: Midweek MACtion Showdown in College Football Week 13

The Buffalo Bulls and the Eastern Michigan Eagles are set to clash in a midweek MACtion matchup on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Rynearson Stadium in Ypsilanti, Michigan. This game pits two Mid-American Conference teams trending in opposite directions against each other. Buffalo, with a 6-4 overall record and 4-2 in the MAC, is coming off a thrilling 51-48 overtime win over Ball State on November 12. In contrast, Eastern Michigan, with a 5-5 record and 2-4 in the MAC, suffered a 35-10 loss to Ohio last Wednesday.

The Bulls are led by senior quarterback C.J. Ogbonna, a dual-threat player who has completed 149 of 267 passes for 1,791 yards and 13 touchdowns, along with 221 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Ogbonna’s performance has been crucial in Buffalo’s recent successes, including the overtime victory over Ball State where he threw for 264 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 55 yards and two touchdowns.

Eastern Michigan, on the other hand, is driven by senior quarterback Cole Snyder, who previously played for Buffalo. Snyder has completed 209 of 347 passes for 2,242 yards and 12 touchdowns, with 297 rushing yards and four touchdowns. The Eagles also rely on senior running back Delbert Mimms III, who has carried 154 times for 629 yards and seven touchdowns this season.

The game has significant implications for both teams. Buffalo retains an outside chance at reaching the MAC Football Championship Game, while Eastern Michigan is just one win away from achieving bowl eligibility. The betting odds are closely matched, with Buffalo favored by 1 point, and the over/under set at 52.5 points.

The weather conditions, with predicted rain and winds, could impact the game significantly, particularly on special teams and passing plays. However, both teams are expected to engage in a high-scoring affair given their defensive struggles. Buffalo’s defense has been particularly vulnerable, allowing 30.9 points per game, while Eastern Michigan’s defense has also faltered, especially in recent weeks.

Predictions from various models and analysts suggest that the game will be a shootout, with the over being a favorable bet. The College Football Network predicts a Buffalo win with a score of 30-25, emphasizing the Bulls’ offensive advantages and the potential for big plays in a sloppy, weather-affected game.