Northern Illinois Huskies vs
NC State WolfpackPredictions & Preview

Wolfpack faces tough challenge against NIU in crucial 2024 matchup: NC State favored by touchdown but struggles to cover the spread

In an upcoming college football matchup, the MAC's 2-1 Northern Illinois Huskies will face off against the ACC's 2-2 North Carolina State Wolfpack. Both teams are coming off tough losses and will be looking to bounce back this week. NC State is favored by touchdown, but has failed to cover the spread in their first four games, while NIU has a strong 2-1 record against the spread. In terms of the total points scored, NC State has trended towards the over with a 3-1 record, while NIU is at an even 1-1-1. The game will take place at Wayne Day Family Field with an early kickoff at noon EST on Saturday, September 28. Despite opening at -11.5, the current betting line favors NC State at -6.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Huskies +215 | Wolfpack -255
• Spread: Huskies +6.5 (-110) | Wolfpack -6.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 46.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that NC State will win straight-up is 72%.

Northern Illinois vs NC State Stats

Northern Illinois Huskies

Head coach Thomas Hammock has led the Northern Illinois Huskies to their second winning season in a row, culminating in a victory at the Camellia Bowl. Despite a strong start to this season including an upset win over Notre Dame, they suffered a disappointing loss to Buffalo in overtime. Coach Hammock cited turnovers as a key factor in the defeat. The Huskies have an impressive offense, ranking 8th in total yards and averaging 30 points per game. Junior QB Ethan Hampton has been efficient, with 6 touchdowns and 1 interception. The defense has also been solid, allowing just 17 points per game and ranking second in third down conversion percentage allowed. However, kicker Kanon Woodill has struggled, making only 5 of 8 field goals. With a power ranking of 27 and solid rankings in both offense and defense, Northern Illinois looks to bounce back from their loss and continue their success this season.

NC State Wolfpack Analysis

The NC State Wolfpack is currently 2-2 on the season, with their two losses coming at the hands of ranked teams Tennessee and Clemson. Last week, they suffered their 10th straight loss at Clemson, with freshman QB CJ Bailey filling in for the injured Grayson McCall. The defense has been a major issue in both losses, as they are ranked 109th in points allowed per game. McCall's status for week 5 against Northern Illinois is questionable. The offense is averaging 26 points per game, while the defense is giving up 30.67 points per game. Overall, the Wolfpack have a power ranking of 75 and are looking to improve their performance moving forward.

Wolfpack faces tough challenge against NIU in crucial 2024 matchup

The upcoming match between the Wolfpack and NIU in 2024 is of significant importance, with the former needing a victory to maintain their position against tough ACC opponents throughout the season. The game will be played at NC State's home ground, where they have a strong track record of success. Despite the Wolfpack's offensive capability, their defense may struggle against their opponent, as Northern Illinois has demonstrated a resilient defense in crucial moments. The Huskies have also performed well against strong opponents in the past, making them a formidable adversary. NC State's previous performance against the spread has not been favorable, suggesting that NIU may pose a challenge. In conclusion, while the Wolfpack may not suffer a significant setback, it may be wise to consider betting on Northern Illinois to cover the 7-point spread in this match.

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