Bobcats look to extend MAC lead vs. Falcons

The Ohio Bobcats may have the lead in the MAC East standings with just 2 games left on their schedule, but they will have their work cut out for them to finish on top. Despite being 2-4 in conference and having a 4-6 overall record, the Bowling Green Falcons have the potential to be a legitimate threat to any and all conference opponents they face. They proved that against the Temple Owls, and with a passing attack that ranks 30th in division 1 football have the ability to beat up on an Ohio defense that has limited most of their opponents to well below their season averages offensively.

College football handicappers have listed the Bobcats as solid 6.5 point road favorites for Wednesday’s match-up. The point spread shouldn’t be too surprising as the Falcons offense is ranked 80th and Ohio’s defense is one of the best in the MAC. However, a 4 win team that needs to win their final 2 games to become “bowl eligible” is always a dangerous opponent. Matt Schilz is having a tremendous sophomore season at quarterback. His numbers are up across the board compared to his freshman year, and he has had moment of brilliance along the way. A pair of 400+ yard passing performances are signs that Schilz can shred defenses when needed to. The Bobcats defense may be considered one of the best in the league, but they have given up a ton of points over the last few weeks. Fortunately their offense has been able to bail them out as they have scored a total of 115 points in their last 3 games. They may need to do the same against Bowling Green.

In terms of statistics, Ohio has the most well rounded team in the MAC by far. They rank no lower than 36th out of 120 teams in passing yards, rushing yards, points for and points against. However, much like many teams in the wild and crazy MAC conference, the Bobcats have fallen victim to teams that they were expected to handle with ease. Losing to Buffalo as 8.5 point favs and Ball St as 14.5 point favorites sent this team back from where NCAA football experts thought they’d finish this season. Three consecutive wins including a 4 point win over the Temple Owls has put Ohio right back in the mix, and have them in the driver’s seat to win their division.

Bobcats quarterback Tyler Tettleton is no slouch himself at throwing the ball, but he’s fortunate enough to have a great running back tandem to help him move this offense with consistency. Dante Harden and Ryan Boykin have combined for over 1100 yards, and over 200 yards per game. This has the potential to be an offensive showdown, but the Bobcats will do their best to avoid that scenario. Tune in Wednesday night as the Bobcats and Falcons do battle in this MAC conference showdown.

 

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2. Huskies take on the Falcons in MAC Conference Battle
3. Temple and Ohio in MAC Conference Grudge Match
4. MAC East Leaders Collide: Temple vs. Ohio
5. Owls host Redhawks in MAC Conference Battle

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