Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan will renew their long-standing rivalry on Wednesday night with both teams seeking a win to move closer to bowl eligibility. The Eagles enter at 4-5 on a two-game losing streak, while the Chippewas are 3-5 and have dropped three consecutive games. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Betting Odds
Eastern Michigan is a 1.5-point favorite according to DraftKings Sportsbook. The money line lists Eastern Michigan at -125 and Central Michigan at +105. The over/under for total points is 44.5, with the over at -112 and the under at -108.
Team Previews
Eastern Michigan has lost three straight games earlier in the season and now two in a row after a three-game winning streak. The Eagles were blown out by Toledo before falling 24-20 to Ohio last week. Senior quarterback Brogan McCaughey threw for 197 yards and a touchdown in that loss, helping Eastern Michigan cover as an 11.5-point underdog. The Eagles have scored at least 20 points in four of their last five games, reaching 25 points three times, but have allowed at least 23 points in three straight contests and are giving up 25.7 points per game overall.
Central Michigan has lost three straight, starting with a 31-14 loss at Ohio. The Chippewas were more competitive in their last two outings, losing to Western Michigan by one touchdown and to Miami (OH) by a single point last week. Junior quarterback Jadyn Glasser passed for 221 yards and a touchdown in the loss to the RedHawks. Central Michigan has held only one of its last five opponents under 20 points and allows 25.9 points per game.
Series History
The rivalry dates back to 1902, with Central Michigan holding a 65-32-6 advantage in the all-time series. The Chippewas won last season's meeting 24-13.
Prediction
SportsLine's computer model projects the teams to combine for 50 points, with the over hitting in 65% of simulations. Given both defenses' struggles, the over 44.5 appears to be the strongest play.
