Schedule Breakdown And Predictions: Central Michigan
Prediction
Obviously, both teams come into the season with a few question marks, including a shared uncertainty at running back. Unfortunately for the Chippewas, they are in a much worse position. A new coach, a drop-off in talent, and an offense that will be looking to implement a new system against a very good Oklahoma State defense won’t bode well against a Cowboys team looking to prove themselves and set a tone for a resurgent 2015. The Chippewas have the home-field advantage, and will no doubt have a fired up Kelly/Shorts stadium behind them, but that’s where any advantages stop.
No, this won’t be on the level of say, a Savannah State, but the Cowboys will win, and win comfortably. Mason Rudolph will show the benefits of being the number one guy for a full offseason, Chris Carson will fulfill the hype, the defense will pick up where they left off last season, and at least six receivers will record catches.
Central Michigan is not a bad team, and will likely be heading to another bowl at the end of the season, but this is a tough game to start a new regime under.
Most Las Vegas sportsbooks have the Cowboys as a 21-point favorite, with the over/under set at 54. That sounds about right to me. The Cowboys have their way on both sides of the ball, and settle for a field goal a handful of times.