Buffalo Bulls vs. Northern Illinois Huskies 9/21/24 – As preparations come to a close for yet another thrilling week in college football, the Buffalo Bulls (2-1) are ready to face the still-winning Northern Illinois Huskies (2-0) in what looks to be an interesting Week 4 clash. The current game features a Bulls team that has endured to this stage of the season, facing an unbeaten but very well nervous Huskies team. As part of our NCAAF best free prediction, let’s take a look at this game and what it means for the further development of betting.
Buffalo Bulls vs. Northern Illinois Huskies 9/21/24
| When: | Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 3:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulls | +15 (-110) | 45 over (-110) | +520 |  |
| Huskies | -15 (-110) | 45 under (-110) | -750 | |
| ||||
https://twitter.com/UBFootball/status/1836150541258461521
The betting odds reveal a significant leaning towards the Huskies, reflected in their heavy favoritism on the Moneyline and a robust 15-point advantage on the spread. This suggests that the Bulls are facing an uphill battle, one that the oddsmakers feel could be a challenging feat. The over/under at 45 points aligns with historical trends, suggesting a moderately scoring game is anticipated.
C.J. Ogbonna QB vs. Ethan Hampton QB
C.J. Ogbonna, the quarterback of the Buffalo Bulls, is resilient and capable having 435 passing yards and a completion percentage of 51.5%. C.J. Ogbonna has not been without his struggles through the challenges with sacks five and an interception but has still achieved a good passer rating of 118.8. He will have to cope with a strong Huskies defense and this will require him to make plays under duress.
The other side of things is where Ethan Hampton of the Northern Illinois Huskies is more than different. Hampton, who has a near perfect passer rating of 235.9 has gone for 526 yards, completed 71.8 percent of his passes with no touchdowns, and has registered six touchdowns with no sacks and interceptions. Not only has he been efficient in his performance but also has been defining the game.
When Ogbonna and Hampton go head to head on the pitch, it is going to be a battle between Ogbonna’s toughness and Hampton’s accuracy. There are threats to the Bulls’ defense from the high efficiency and explosive play of Hampton that the defense is going to have to contain. And Ogbonna, for that matter, has to do everything to score as much as possible and make the Bulls’ offense work to make the team stay competitive.
Buffalo Bulls Ground and Air Attack
Jacqez Barksdale, the leading rusher for the Bulls, has racked up 184 yards on 35 carries, highlighting his ability to break through defenses with an average of 5.3 yards per carry. The Bulls will need him to be at his best to control the clock and keep the ball away from the Huskies’ potent offense. Victor Snow, the top receiver, though without a touchdown, has managed to secure 107 yards over 10 receptions. His role will be pivotal in converting crucial third downs and extending drives.
Huskies’ Offensive Coordination
Antario Brown and Grayson Barnes have been central figures in the Huskies’ offense. Brown, with 168 rushing yards, offers a consistent ground threat, while Barnes, a tight end with 108 receiving yards and a notable 60-yard reception, provides a reliable target for Hampton. Their combined efforts have helped balance the Huskies’ offensive playbook, making it challenging for opponents to predict and counter their plays effectively.
Trends
Buffalo Bulls Betting Trends
Buffalo are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Buffalo’s last 10 games.
Buffalo are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games.
Buffalo are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games against Northern Illinois.
Bulls are 1-12 SU in their last 13 games against Northern Illinois.
Northern Illinois Huskies Betting Trends
Northern Illinois are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Northern Illinois’ last 9 games.
Northern Illinois are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Northern Illinois’ last 6 games against Buffalo.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Northern Illinois’ last 7 games at home.
Buffalo Bulls vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Betting Prediction
Considering all the gathered information and focus on the analytics, our last comments are supporting a victory for the Northern Illinois Huskies. The performance that Hampton exhibited at quarterback and all of his teammates, in general, indicates that the Huskies could beat the line adequately. Nevertheless, the total numbers may be around the given figure because both teams play a disciplined defensive game. It is also possible to consider wagering on the under since it may also be sensible.
With prop bets for those who fancy them, it would be worth considering Hampton for an anytime touchdown depending on his form. When it comes to picking sides, one would however believe that the best online betting sites have tipped their fans towards the Huskies to win the encounter, but the Bulls can cause an upset if the game is within reach.
Score Prediction: Northern Illinois 30, Buffalo 13.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: September 17, 2024
Last updated: April 1, 2025