I don't know the closing line as I went to the hospital for an emergency for myself late yesterday afternoon.
The line opened at Missisippi State -10.5. I played Maine +10.5 & before I left, I saw the line at -12.
You are 150% correct that these games used to be cupcake games but now they are far from that when these teams meet up against top tier 1AA programs.
The sad part is I agree with you 150% on the scheduling part as these games will be harder to come by because of these victories.
I would like to see a select few programs go up to the 1A level as I think they could nbe national contenders within 5 years. Look at the success story of Boise State for instance & how far they have come in a short time.
I loved Maine against Montana a few weeks ago & thought +14.5 was a gift. I love Montana as much as the next Grizzlies fan as that team has made me a bundle the last few years especially once when they were my CFB GOTY over Idaho but I thought Maine coud give them a game & maybe win outright.
I stayed away from Montana yesterdy as I thought Sam Houston State would give them a tough game & I see they won outright by 12. I think the lead was bigger for Sam Houston State. I am curious to check the boxscore for that game.
SHS has looked real impressive with Texas A&M transfer Dustin (forgot his last name) at QB.