The Ohio Bobcats and Bowling Green Falcons are set to clash for their 76th encounter, marking a new chapter as it will be their first meeting since the Mid-American Conference (MAC) removed divisional play. Both teams are entering this game with differing outcomes from their previous matchups. The Falcons faced a tough 40-17 loss to Louisville, whereas the Bobcats ended their non-conference games on a high note with a 52-35 victory against Gardner-Webb.
Reflecting on their past meeting, Ohio spoiled Bowling Green’s homecoming with a decisive win powered by Kurtis Rourke’s three-touchdown performance and two fumble recovery touchdowns. The Falcons struggled offensively in that game, managing only a single fourth-quarter score.
As the teams prepare to face off at Peden Stadium in Athens, Ohio, the Bobcats are favorites with a -10.5 line, and an over/under set at 51.5. Fans can catch the action on CBS Sports Network, where Jordan Kent and Adam Breneman will offer commentary. Bowling Green supporters can tune into Eagle FM 99 for radio coverage, while Ohio fans have WXTQ-FM 105.5 and the Varsity Network as listening options.
Bowling Green, currently at a 2-2 standing, has displayed challenges in establishing a consistent offensive rhythm, scoring only seven touchdowns in four games. Drew Pyne, the promising new recruit, has yet to find his footing, posting his only 250+ yard game in a loss against Cincinnati. Despite this, there are positive signs, as receivers Jyrin Johnson, RJ Garcia II, and Finn Hogan have each surpassed 100 receiving yards. The running game, led by Kaderris Roberts and averaging 150.8 yards per game, offers a functional albeit non-explosive option.
Defensively, the Falcons will feel the absence of standout linebacker Dorian Pringle due to an ACL injury. Nevertheless, they maintain strong defensive statistics, ranking third in the MAC for points and sacks. They will need to minimize penalties, as they currently average seven penalties and 53 yards lost per game.
On the other side, Ohio has had a commendable start with a 2-2 record, demonstrating their prowess with wins against West Virginia and Gardner-Webb. Quarterback Parker Navarro poses a dual threat, averaging 217.5 passing yards and 64 rushing yards per game. His main target, Chase Hendricks, has been impressive with 456 yards and three touchdowns. The running game is bolstered by Sieh Bangura, who aims to recapture his 2022 form.
Ohio’s defense presents opportunities for the Falcons, as they rank seventh in the MAC for yards allowed, showing vulnerability in their passing defense. This may give Bowling Green a chance to exploit Ohio’s weaknesses if Drew Pyne can break his current cycle of inconsistency.
Both teams are aiming to refine their strategies and leverage their respective strengths. The matchup promises to be a compelling display of college football as each team strives for success in the new MAC landscape.