Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State A Season of Resilience and Struggles

Northern Illinois Huskies vs. Fresno State Bulldogs: 2024 Potato Bowl Betting Preview

The 2024 Potato Bowl is set to feature an exciting matchup between the Northern Illinois Huskies (7-5) and the Fresno State Bulldogs (6-6), both of whom come into the game with mixed expectations. Kickoff is set for Monday afternoon in Boise, Idaho, where two teams with contrasting stories will look to cap off their seasons with a win.

Northern Illinois Huskies: A Season of Struggles and Resilience

The Northern Illinois Huskies finished the season with a respectable 7-5 record, despite a rollercoaster journey in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). After a middling 4-4 record in conference play, Northern Illinois looked to their defense and strong running game to turn things around in the second half of the season, securing three wins in their final four regular-season games. Their lone loss in that stretch came against Miami (OH), who would go on to play in the MAC Championship Game.

While Northern Illinois’ passing game has been inconsistent, their ground attack has been the backbone of their offensive success. Senior running back Gavin Williams has been a standout, rushing for 741 yards and over 60 yards in five games, including a career-high 125 yards against UMass. However, Northern Illinois will be without another key running back, Antario Brown, who is sidelined due to injury.

Adding to the team’s offensive woes, standout wide receiver Trayvon Rudolph, who led the team with 397 receiving yards, has opted out of the game. This leaves Cam Thompson, with 391 receiving yards, as the most reliable target for Holst in the air attack.

The Huskies’ defense, though, is a force to be reckoned with. They held NC State to just 24 points earlier in the season and have given up 25 points or fewer in all but one game. They rank 8th in pass defense and 18th in rush defense, making them one of the most efficient defensive units in the country.

Fresno State Bulldogs: Ups and Downs Heading Into the Bowl Game

Fresno State finished their regular season at 6-6, but their path to bowl eligibility wasn’t without its challenges. After a 4-2 start, the Bulldogs suffered through a rough patch, losing three of their final four games. A 28-22 victory over Colorado State in Week 13 secured their postseason spot, though, giving them a chance to redeem themselves on the national stage.

The Bulldogs have had their fair share of struggles, but they possess enough talent to be a dangerous team in a bowl game. Mikey Keene, the quarterback who threw for 2,892 yards and 18 touchdowns, entered the transfer portal and will not play in the Potato Bowl. The team will turn to either Joshua Wood or Jayden Mandel at quarterback—both of whom have minimal experience, with Wood attempting just five passes on the season.

On the offensive side, Elijah Gilliam, Fresno State’s primary running back, has contributed solidly with 466 rushing yards, though the running game has never been a standout feature for the Bulldogs. The team’s passing attack will be spearheaded by senior Mac Dalena, who has posted 947 yards this season, including three games over 80 yards in his last five contests. Jalen Moss, another key wide receiver with 563 yards, has opted out, weakening the passing attack.

Defensively, Fresno State has generally kept their opponents in check, conceding 25 or fewer points in eight games this season. Their rush defense ranks 50th, while their pass defense sits in the middle of the pack at 65th. They have shown the ability to shut down weaker offenses but will need a strong performance to handle the Huskies’ balanced attack.

Conclusion

The 2024 Potato Bowl will provide an intriguing matchup between two teams looking to finish their seasons on a high note. While the Huskies have the edge defensively, Fresno State will have to rely on their depth at receiver and hope for solid quarterback play from either Wood or Mandel. The outcome will likely hinge on which team can execute their game plan most effectively.

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