here's CFN's prediction which would be 2-0 for me, barely... i think Ball st throws up more than 38 though
How are the picks so far? SU: 67-16 ... ATS: 37-33
MAC Game of the Week
Ball State (9-0) at Miami University (2-7), 8 EST ESPN2
Why to watch: This was supposed to be the battle for the MAC title, or at least a preview of the Championship, but instead Ball State is looking to stay unbeaten and in the hunt for the BCS with the showdowns against Central Michigan and Western Michigan to follow. Meanwhile, Miami has been one of the nation's biggest disappointments going just 2-7 with the lone win over an FBS team coming with a 27-20 win over Bowling Green several weeks ago. This is MU's bowl game and its chance to show that it really was a good enough team to have been considered the preseason favorite to win the MAC East.
Why Ball State might win: Miami isn't showing nearly enough offense to prove it can keep up a decent pace, while the run defense has been abysmal. The MU linebacking corps that was supposed to be so great has been beaten up thanks to a line that's done absolutely nothing all year. There's no pass rush, so Ball State star QB Nate Davis should have all the time in the world to operate. Miami hasn't scored more than 27 points yet this year against an FBS team, while Ball State has scored fewer than 31 points just once.
Why Miami University might win: There really is a little bit of talent and athleticism on the RedHawks, even if they haven't shown it off. Ball State hasn't been pushed yet, and while that goes to show just how good it's been, it also hasn't had to deal with any adversity. With all the talk surrounding next week's game against CMU, Ball State is certainly going to have one foot out the door and on the way to Mount Pleasant. If MU can get the ground game going against a decent, but not elite BSU defensive front, there might be a chance to keep this close.
Who to watch: Miami QB Clay Belton is out after getting beaten up by Buffalo last week. He took a big shot to the chest and is being held out, meaning Daniel Raudabaugh, the starter over the first half of the season, will have to shine. Raudabaugh doesn't have Belton's arm or skills, but he's a decent decision-maker who threw just two picks in five games after a rough opening day against Vanderbilt. He'll have to get bombing to match up with the red-hot Davis, who's finally starting to get national attention after his 300-yard, four touchdown day in the win over NIU. The NFL scouts certainly know who he is.
What will happen: Miami will play inspired football for about a half, and then the big play ability of the Cardinals will shine through with a big scoring run midway through the second half.
CFN Prediction: Ball State 38 ... Miami University 17 ... Line: Ball State -18.5
Must See Rating: (5 Quantum Of Solace ? 1 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa) ?
