Northwestern vs Central Michigan GameAbove Sports Bowl Betting Preview

Northwestern and Central Michigan meet in a bowl matchup that mirrors itself in style. Both teams defend well, lean on the run, and play with discipline. David Braun said Central Michigan felt familiar on film, and the numbers back it up. Both teams sit near each other in scoring defense and rushing output. The GameAbove Sports Bowl closes the year for two veteran quarterbacks who want to finish with a win. You can monitor the market on the live NCAA odds page.

Northwestern finished 6-6 after exceeding expectations in Braun’s second season. Preston Stone stabilized the offense after transferring from SMU, while Caleb Komolafe powered a balanced run game. The Wildcats’ defense carried them through marquee moments, including wins over Penn State and Purdue.

Central Michigan enters at 7-5 and surged late, winning four of six to secure a winning record. First-year coach Matt Drinkall relied on toughness and flexibility, including a two-quarterback system that may resurface with Angel Flores cleared to play alongside Joe Labas.

Line Movement and Odds

Northwestern opened as a solid favorite, settling near -10.5 after early action. Public money has leaned toward the Wildcats, while sharper interest has shown on the under given both teams’ defensive profiles.

Current board:
• Spread: Northwestern -10.5
• Moneyline: Northwestern -428, Central Michigan +327
• Total: 43.5

The dome setting removes weather variance, keeping the focus on pace and efficiency.

Matchup Breakdown

Northwestern wins if its defense controls the middle of the field. The Wildcats rank top 10 nationally in interceptions and top 10 in fumbles recovered. They disguise coverages well and limit explosive plays. If Komolafe is active and effective, Northwestern can manage game flow and shorten possessions.

Central Michigan’s chance rests on pressure and quarterback usage. The Chippewas rank top 15 in sacks and can stress protection with four man fronts. Labas has protected the ball well, and Flores adds a change-of-pace element if his workload expands. If Central Michigan forces turnovers and avoids long yardage, it can hang inside the number.

This game likely stays tight into the second half. Neither team pushes tempo, and both prefer to win physically.

Injuries and Conditions

Central Michigan injury notes
• Angel Flores, questionable
• Kade Kostus, questionable
• Matthew Nehf, out
• Rory Callahan, out
• McKeegan Ferguson, out
• Tysen Campbell, questionable
• Jadyn Glasser, out
• John Iannuzzi, out
• Triston Pierre, out

Full updates available on the Central Michigan injury report.

Northwestern injury notes
• Richie Hagarty, out
• Cam Porter, out
• Alex Lines, questionable
• Yannis Karlaftis, out
• Aidan Hubbard, questionable
• Chris Petrucci, out
• Jason Reynolds II, questionable
• Evan Smith, out
• Dylan Roberts, out
• Damon Walters, questionable
• Caleb Komolafe, questionable

Check the full Northwestern injury report for late updates.

Weather
Dome stadium. No weather impact.

Best Bets and Prediction

Northwestern is reliable as a favorite, but Central Michigan’s defense and recent ATS form point toward a competitive game. Both teams lean under, and possessions should be limited.

Projected Score: Northwestern 24, Central Michigan 17
Best Bet: Central Michigan +10.5
Secondary Lean: Under 43.5

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