Game Preview: Ball State @ #15 Northern Illinois (-6.5, O/U 72) 8 ET ESPN2

Our first top 25 action of Week 12 in College Football begins tonight when the 15^th ranked Northern Illinois Huskies (9-0, 5-0) host the Ball State Cardinals (9-1, 6-0). Behind star senior quarterback Jordan Lynch, Northern Illinois has quietly put together another undefeated run in hopes to once again bust the BCS bubble. However, tonight will arguably be Lynch and the Huskies toughest test yet as Ball State also possesses an undefeated conference record with its sights set on its first league title since 2008.

This game boasts two high-powered offenses, in what should be a very entertaining offensive matchup. Lynch leads an offense ranked in the Top 10 in the country in points (44.2), rushing yards (312.7), and total yards per game (545.4). Lynch is the centerpiece of this offense in all facets, leading all quarterbacks with 1,150 rushing yards per contest. However, Ball State powered by senior quarterback Keith Wenning (4^th in FBS in passing yards), possesses an explosive offense of its own averaging 39.9 points per game and ranked 8^th in passing yards at 323.0 per game. Wenning’s main target is receiver Willie Snead who ranks 3^rd in the FBS with 1,175 receiving yards on the year.

Both teams have suspect defenses. Northern Illinois struggles defending the pass and Ball State has issues stopping the run; which are coincidentally the strengths of the opposing teams tonight. This contest could come down to costly turnovers and timely defensive stops.

My Pick

Northern Illinois has won 24 consecutive home games and 22 straight overall against conference opponents. However, the last two times these teams have met at Northern Illinois the games have been decided by only nine points. Both teams have been very good against the spread this year, but I like Northern Illinois giving 6.5 and the Under 72 in this game. There are supposed to be frigid temperatures with high winds tonight which could stunt Ball State’s passing game. In the end I think Northern Illinois at home and heavy doses of Jordan Lynch will be too much for the Cardinals. I like Lynch and the Huskies to put the ball on the ground and win this game. 37-27 No. Illinois