Miami (OH) RedHawks (11-2) vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers (8-5)
Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers December 16, 2023 – The Miami (OH) RedHawks face the Appalachian State Mountaineers in the Avocados From Mexico Cure Bowl on Saturday. According to NCAAF bowl games expert picks, this could be one of the more competitive bowl games this year between two teams trending in opposite directions. This game promises to be a showcase of college football at its finest.
Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers December 16, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET |
| Where: | FBC Mortgage Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Brett Gabbert QB vs. Joey Aguilar QB
RedHawks quarterback Brett Gabbert has put together an efficient season, completing 59.4% of his passes for 1,634 yards, 14 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. He excels at spreading the ball around and making quick decisions, though he can struggle when under heavy pressure. His accuracy and lack of turnovers make him a steadying force for the Miami offense.
Mountaineers quarterback Joey Aguilar has been extremely productive, racking up 3,546 passing yards, 33 touchdowns and 9 picks while completing 64.3% of his throws. A gunslinger who isn’t afraid to take chances downfield, Aguilar can carry Appalachian State’s offense but is also prone to making mistakes if he tries to do too much. His ability to connect on big plays will be key in this matchup.
RedHawks Bring Stingy Defense and Efficient Offense
Led by workhorse running back Rashad Amos and big-play wideout Gage Larvadain, Miami has one of the MAC’s top offenses. Amos is a tackle-breaking machine, plowing through contact for 895 yards and 12 scores. Meanwhile, Larvadain is a home run threat who’s averaging almost 17 yards per catch. This unit doesn’t make many mistakes, as evidenced by Gabbert’s sterling passer rating. The RedHawks defense has also delivered, holding opponents to just 16.8 points per game. Linebackers Ryan McWood and Zed Key are playmakers who can create turnovers.
Mountaineers Ride Aguilar’s Arm and Noel’s Legs
Aguilar has carried Appalachian State’s offense, offsetting a shaky defense surrendering 27.8 points per contest. He has a premium target in Kaedin Robinson, who’s already over 750 receiving yards and has reeled in 10 touchdown passes. On the ground, Nate Noel brings explosiveness, collecting 834 rushing yards at nearly 5 yards per carry. Noel is elusive and boasts impressive breakaway speed for a back. The Mountaineers will likely need Aguilar and Noel to deliver signature performances to outgun Miami’s balanced squad.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Appalachian State Mountaineers -200, Over/Under: 51.5
The betting odds favor the Appalachian State Mountaineers, indicating a stronger perceived likelihood of their victory. The over/under set at 51.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game.
Miami (OH) RedHawks Betting Trends
Miami-OH are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami-OH’s last 6 games.
Miami-OH are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Miami-OH’s last 9 games played in December.
Miami-OH are 10-1 SU in their last 11 games played on a Saturday.
Miami-OH are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games when playing as the underdog.
Appalachian State Mountaineers Betting Trends
Appalachian State are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
Mountaineers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games.
Appalachian State are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games against an opponent in the Mid-American conference.
Appalachian State are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games played in December.
Mountaineers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games played on a Saturday.
Appalachian State are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games when playing as the favourite.
Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers Betting Picks
Considering the data and trends, this matchup presents a nuanced picture. The RedHawks’ strong ATS record and defensive prowess, especially in December games, make them an attractive pick. On the other hand, the Mountaineers’ overall SU performance and offensive firepower, led by Aguilar, make them a formidable opponent.
In terms of betting, the RedHawks as underdogs present value, especially given their recent ATS record. The total going UNDER in recent Miami-OH games suggests a potential lean towards the under, given their defensive strengths. However, the Mountaineers’ ability to score cannot be underestimated, making the over/under a more challenging pick.
For those looking at online sportsbook in USA options, this game presents an intriguing mix of offensive firepower and defensive acumen. The smart money might lean towards taking the RedHawks with the points, but a straight-up bet on the Mountaineers should not be dismissed outright.
Receiving Yards Prop: Miami (OH) 24, Appalachian State 28.
