Kennesaw State vs Western Michigan (8:00am)

Why Western Michigan Will Dominate Kennesaw State in the Myrtle Beach Bowl

Western Michigan's Elite Defense Will Stifle Kennesaw State's Offense

Western Michigan's standout season has been propelled by one of the Mid-American Conference's top defenses, surrendering a stingy 18.2 points per game (14th nationally) while restricting opponents to efficient plays across the board. The Broncos' front seven has been dominant, amassing a high volume of sacks and consistently bottling up both rushing and passing attacks. They kept numerous conference opponents well in check, underscoring their reliability against MAC competition. Leading the charge is All-American defensive end Nadame Tucker, the nation's top sack artist with 14.5 on the year, earning him MAC Defensive Player of the Year honors and fueling an aggressive pass rush.

In contrast, Kennesaw State leans on a potent air attack led by quarterback Amari Odom, who has passed for 2,385 yards and 18 touchdowns while contributing 376 yards on the ground. Wideouts Gabriel Benyard (898 yards) and Christian Moss (677 yards) provide explosive playmaking threats downfield. Yet the Owls' offensive line has shown vulnerability, allowing a notable number of sacks that Western Michigan's relentless edge pressure. Nationally strong in limiting yards per pass attempt and big-play passes, the Broncos are well-equipped to disrupt Kennesaw State's rhythm.

The Broncos Ground-and-Pound Offense Will Control the Clock

Western Michigan's offense is built around a punishing rushing attack that ranked second in the MAC with 196.6 yards per game. Running back Jalen Buckley (829 yards) and quarterback Broc Lowry (940 yards) combined for over 1,769 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, supported by a deep backfield including Devin Miles (357 yards) and Ofa Mataele (228 yards). This run-heavy approach accounts for 66% of their snaps. This allows the Broncos to dictate tempo, wear down defenses, and dominate time of possession.

Kennesaw State's run defense, while leading Conference USA with 87 tackles for loss, ranked ninth in the conference by allowing 175.5 rushing yards per game. This is a glaring weakness against a team like Western Michigan. The Broncos' methodical ground game will exploit this, extending drives and keeping Kennesaw State's offense off the field. In a bowl game where possession matters, Western Michigan's ability to control the trenches gives them a significant edge.

Momentum and Experience Favor the Broncos

Both teams turned their seasons around after slow starts! Western Michigan began 0-3 but won nine of their next 10, including a 23-13 MAC Championship victory over Miami (Ohio). They closed the year on a five-game winning streak, showcasing resilience and peaking at the right time. Kennesaw State, in their second year at the FBS level, started 0-2 but rattled off 10 wins in 11 games, capped by a 19-15 Conference USA title win over Jacksonville State.

However, Western Michigan's experience in a more established conference like the MAC, combined with their defensive prowess and balanced attack, positions them better for success. The Broncos have faced tougher competition overall, and their elite third-down and red-zone defense (allowing touchdowns on just 38% of red-zone trips) will frustrate an Owls team that struggles with methodical drives.

(2x-Rated Members Only) Pick: Western Michigan -3 (-120)

🍀Best of luck!

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