The Ball State Cardinals will face off against the Kent State Golden Flashes on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 12 p.m. ET in what promises to be an intriguing Mid-American Conference (MAC) showdown. Both teams come into this matchup with something to prove, as they seek to improve their standing in the MAC and build momentum for the remainder of the season.
The MAC has historically been known for producing exciting, high-scoring games, and this matchup between Ball State and Kent State should be no exception. Ball State, under head coach Mike Neu, is looking to bounce back from a rough start to the season and regain the form that saw them as one of the more competitive teams in the conference in recent years. Meanwhile, Kent State, led by head coach Kenni Burns, is also in the process of rebuilding and establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the MAC.
In this comprehensive preview, we’ll cover all the key aspects of this game, from how to watch it live, to team breakdowns, key players to watch, betting odds, and predictions for this critical MAC matchup.
How to Watch Ball State vs Kent State: TV & Streaming Information
TV Broadcast
The Ball State vs Kent State game will be available for fans to watch nationally, thanks to the coverage provided by the various networks that cover college football. Here’s where you can catch the game live on TV:
- ESPN+: As part of the MAC’s media rights agreement with ESPN, many of the conference’s games are streamed on ESPN+. This game is expected to be available on this platform. ESPN+ offers in-depth coverage of smaller conferences like the MAC, making it the go-to source for watching Ball State and Kent State in action.
Streaming Options
For those who prefer to stream the game online, there are multiple platforms that offer live streaming services. Below are some of the best options for streaming the Ball State vs Kent State matchup:
- FuboTV: FuboTV offers access to a wide range of sports channels, including ESPN+, where the game will be available. FuboTV provides a free trial for new users, making it a great option for fans looking to catch the game without committing to a long-term subscription.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s live TV package includes ESPN+, so fans can stream the Ball State vs Kent State game live on their preferred devices. In addition to live sports, Hulu also offers a wide range of on-demand programming, giving fans the flexibility to watch other content before or after the game.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers ESPN+ as part of its streaming package, making it an affordable way to watch the game. Fans can tune in to the game live and enjoy other sports and entertainment programming included in the Sling TV package.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV includes ESPN+ in its channel lineup, allowing fans to stream the game live. With unlimited DVR storage, YouTube TV also gives fans the option to record the game and watch it later if they can’t catch it live.
Mobile Streaming
For fans who want to watch the game on the go, mobile streaming options are available:
- ESPN App: The ESPN App allows fans to stream the game live on their mobile devices. Simply log in with your ESPN+ credentials, and you can catch the game from anywhere.
- FuboTV App: The FuboTV App is a great option for mobile streaming, offering live coverage of the game and other sports events on your smartphone or tablet.
- Hulu + Live TV App: Hulu’s mobile app provides live streaming access to ESPN+ and other channels, making it easy to watch the Ball State vs Kent State game on your mobile device.
Ball State Cardinals Team Preview
Overview
The Ball State Cardinals enter this matchup looking to turn their season around after a challenging start. Head coach Mike Neu has been at the helm since 2016 and has worked to build a competitive program in the MAC. In recent years, Ball State has had some success, including a MAC Championship in 2020, but the team has struggled to maintain that level of play consistently.
This season, the Cardinals have faced difficulties on both sides of the ball, particularly on offense, where they have struggled to generate big plays and sustain drives. However, they have shown flashes of potential and will look to put it all together against Kent State.
Defensively, Ball State has had trouble stopping the run, which could be a problem against a Kent State team that likes to establish the ground game. For Ball State to come away with a win, they will need to play a complete game and find a way to control the tempo.
Offense
The Ball State offense is led by quarterback Kiael Kelly, who took over as the starter this season. Kelly has a dual-threat skill set, which allows him to make plays both through the air and on the ground. While his passing numbers have been inconsistent, Kelly’s ability to create plays with his legs makes him a dangerous player, especially if the Kent State defense has trouble containing him.
The Cardinals’ rushing attack is spearheaded by Marquez Cooper, a transfer from Kent State who has been one of the team’s most consistent offensive players. Cooper is a tough, physical runner who excels at picking up yards after contact. He’ll likely be motivated to have a big game against his former team.
In the receiving corps, Jaylon McGowan has emerged as Kelly’s top target. McGowan has shown the ability to make big plays in the passing game and will need to have a strong performance for Ball State to move the ball effectively. Tanner Koziol provides another reliable option for Kelly in the passing game, particularly in the red zone.
The offensive line has had its struggles this season, particularly in pass protection. If Ball State wants to have success against Kent State, they will need to give Kelly time to throw and open up running lanes for Cooper.
Defense
On defense, Ball State has struggled to stop the run, which could be a major issue against a Kent State team that relies heavily on their rushing attack. The Cardinals’ front seven will need to step up to limit Kent State’s ground game and force them into passing situations.
The defense is led by linebacker Clayton Coll, who has been a bright spot for the team. Coll is a tackling machine and the heart and soul of the defense. His ability to diagnose plays and make stops will be critical in preventing Kent State from controlling the tempo of the game with their run game. Alongside Coll, Sidney Houston Jr. anchors the defensive line. He has shown potential as a disruptive pass rusher, but he will need to be stout against the run in this matchup.
In the secondary, Nic Jones and AJ Johnson will be tasked with keeping Kent State’s passing attack in check. While the Ball State defense has struggled at times this season, Jones and Johnson have made some key plays in pass defense, and their ability to lock down Kent State’s receivers will be essential. If the front seven can contain the run, the secondary must be prepared to limit any big plays through the air.
Key Players to Watch for Ball State
- Kiael Kelly (QB): Kelly’s dual-threat ability makes him a player to watch. If he can find rhythm in the passing game while using his legs to extend plays, he could be the difference-maker for Ball State.
- Marquez Cooper (RB): The former Kent State running back will be motivated to prove himself against his former team. Expect Cooper to carry a significant workload.
- Jaylon McGowan (WR): McGowan has the ability to stretch the field and create big plays. His performance will be key in helping Ball State’s offense keep pace.
- Clayton Coll (LB): Coll’s leadership on defense and his ability to make tackles in key situations will be vital in stopping Kent State’s run-heavy offense.
- Nic Jones (CB): Jones will need to step up in the secondary to prevent Kent State from exploiting big plays through the air.
Kent State Golden Flashes Team Preview
Overview
The Kent State Golden Flashes, under first-year head coach Kenni Burns, are in the middle of a rebuilding phase. Burns, who comes from a successful stint as the running backs coach at Minnesota, is working to instill a new culture and identity in the program. The Golden Flashes have had some success in recent seasons, including a MAC East division title in 2021, but this year has been about laying the foundation for the future.
Kent State has struggled in 2024, particularly on offense, as they work to replace several key players from previous seasons. However, they remain a dangerous team, especially when they can establish the run. The defense, while inconsistent, has shown signs of improvement and will need to step up if Kent State is to come away with a win against Ball State.
Offense
Kent State’s offense is built around the running game, and much of their success hinges on the performance of their talented backfield. Running back Xavier Williams has been the workhorse for the Golden Flashes, leading the team in rushing yards and providing a steady presence in the backfield. Williams is a physical runner with good vision, and he has the ability to wear down defenses as the game goes on.
The quarterback position has been a bit of a question mark for Kent State this season. Michael Alaimo, a transfer from Purdue, has taken over as the starter and has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with consistency. Alaimo has a strong arm and the ability to make plays downfield, but he will need to cut down on turnovers and make better decisions if Kent State’s offense is going to be effective against Ball State.
In the passing game, wide receiver Devontez Walker is Kent State’s top target. Walker has the size and speed to create mismatches against opposing defenses, and he’ll be looking to exploit Ball State’s secondary. Tight end Jared Hunter has also emerged as a reliable option in the passing game, particularly on short-yardage and red zone plays.
Kent State’s offensive line has been a weak point this season, particularly in pass protection. If they can open up running lanes for Williams and give Alaimo time to throw, the Golden Flashes could have success moving the ball against Ball State.
Defense
Kent State’s defense has been a work in progress this season, but they’ve shown improvement in recent weeks. The Golden Flashes have struggled to stop the run, which could be problematic against Ball State’s rushing attack led by Marquez Cooper. However, the defense has done a decent job of forcing turnovers, which could be a key factor in this game.
The defensive line is led by C.J. West, who has been a force in the trenches. West has the ability to disrupt opposing offenses and will need to have a big game to slow down Ball State’s ground attack. At linebacker, Khalib Johns is the leader of the defense. Johns is a versatile player who can make plays all over the field, whether it’s stuffing the run or dropping into coverage.
In the secondary, Montre Miller is Kent State’s top cornerback. Miller has good ball skills and has been effective in limiting opposing receivers. He’ll be tasked with covering Jaylon McGowan, Ball State’s top wide receiver, in what should be a key matchup. If the Golden Flashes can limit big plays through the air and force Ball State into passing situations, they could find success on defense.
Key Players to Watch for Kent State
- Xavier Williams (RB): Williams is the heart of Kent State’s offense, and his ability to run the ball effectively will be crucial in keeping the Golden Flashes in the game.
- Michael Alaimo (QB): Alaimo’s play at quarterback will be critical. If he can limit turnovers and make smart decisions, he could help Kent State’s offense find success.
- Devontez Walker (WR): Walker is Kent State’s top receiving threat and will need to have a big game to give the Golden Flashes a chance to move the ball through the air.
- C.J. West (DL): West’s ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage will be key in slowing down Ball State’s running game.
- Montre Miller (CB): Miller will be tasked with covering Ball State’s top receiver, and his play in the secondary could be a deciding factor in the game.
Odds and Predictions
As of now, the oddsmakers have made Ball State the slight favorite in this matchup, largely due to their advantage in experience and talent on both sides of the ball. Kent State has struggled this season, but they have shown the ability to compete in close games. The betting line for this game is:
- Spread: Ball State -4.5
- Over/Under: 54 points
Prediction
This game will likely come down to which team can control the tempo and win the battle in the trenches. Ball State has the edge in the running game with Marquez Cooper, and if they can establish the ground game early, they should be able to control the clock and keep Kent State’s offense off the field. However, Kent State’s ability to create turnovers and make big plays could keep them in the game.
Ultimately, Ball State’s experience and more balanced attack should be enough to get the win in what could be a closely contested matchup.
Final Score Prediction: Ball State 31, Kent State 24
The Ball State vs Kent State matchup on Saturday, October 12 promises to be a pivotal game for both teams as they look to improve their standing in the Mid-American Conference. With both teams battling for momentum and trying to find consistency, this game could be an exciting, hard-fought contest.
Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ or stream the game via FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and other platforms. Whether you’re rooting for Ball State’s balanced attack or Kent State’s dynamic run game, this MAC showdown is sure to provide plenty of excitement.
