COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Eastern Michigan comes in with a higher scoring average at 21.3 points per game, but that has been offset by a defense that has allowed 25.7 points and 376.7 yards per game. Central Michigan has not been explosive, yet its run game at 169.3 rushing yards per game gives it a path to control tempo, and its defense has allowed slightly fewer points at 25.9 per game. Eastern Michigan’s passing game is the stronger part of the matchup, with 213.0 passing yards per game, but Central Michigan’s pass defense has been a bit more manageable than Eastern Michigan’s, which has allowed 241.6 passing yards per game. That combination points to a close game with a small edge to the Chippewas.
Central Michigan should be the slight favorite in a game that stays tight for most of the night, but the Chippewas’ more balanced offense and slightly steadier defensive profile give them the edge. Eastern Michigan’s passing attack can keep the game competitive, yet its defensive numbers point to enough stop-and-start possessions for the road side to edge ahead late. Final score projection: Central Michigan Chippewas 24, Eastern Michigan Eagles 21.