CFB Pick: Eastern Michigan vs. UMASS
The 2024 college football season kicks off with an intriguing matchup between the Eastern Michigan Eagles and the UMASS Minutemen on Saturday, August 31st, at 3:30 PM EST. The game, held at UMASS’s home turf, is currently listed as a pick’em at MyBookie with a total of 49.5 points, although some sportsbooks favor Eastern Michigan by as much as 2 points.
Recent History and Trends
These two teams have become familiar foes, facing each other in the last three seasons with Eastern Michigan emerging victorious in all three contests. However, the margin of victory has narrowed each year, culminating in a nail-biting 19-17 win for Eastern Michigan in 2023.
UMASS: A Glimmer of Hope?
Last season, UMASS finished with a 3-9 record, marking their best performance since 2018. While the record might not seem impressive, it signifies a positive step for a program that won only three games combined between 2019 and 2022. Aside from lopsided losses against powerhouses like Auburn and Penn State, UMASS demonstrated competitiveness throughout the season. Notable victories over Army and New Mexico State, along with their near-upset of Eastern Michigan, suggest a potential upward trajectory.
Eastern Michigan: A Step Back in 2023
Eastern Michigan concluded the 2023 season with a 6-7 record, securing a bowl game berth against South Alabama, which ended in a 59-10 rout. Despite the bowl appearance, the season could be considered a disappointment for the Eagles, who had achieved nine and seven wins in the previous two seasons, respectively.
Key Returns and Data-Driven Prediction
Both teams return five starters on offense and six on defense, ensuring continuity and experience on both sides of the ball. Based on data analysis of the last seven games of the 2023 season, our model predicts a surprising 32-19 victory for UMASS. This prediction is bolstered by the narrowing margin of victory in recent matchups and UMASS’s home-field advantage.
The Pick: UMASS +2
UMASS enters the 2024 season with renewed confidence, having nearly defeated Eastern Michigan on the road last year. The Minutemen’s familiarity with their opponent, coupled with the home-field advantage, makes them an attractive pick, especially with the current line at +2 at some sportsbooks.
Conclusion
This may not be a matchup between college football powerhouses howver the Eastern Michigan vs. UMASS game promises to be a competitive season opener. While Eastern Michigan holds the historical advantage, UMASS’s recent improvements and home-field advantage make them a compelling underdog. This game could be a potential turning point for the Minutemen as they seek to establish themselves as a competitive program.