Middle Tennessee was deemed as a dark horse by many to be a contender in Conference USA in 2025. But so far, the Blue Raiders aren’t living up to that.
They’re 1-4 overall and 0-1 in CUSA play, including a season-opening loss against FCS Austin Peay. Their one league loss was at Kennesaw State, which is in its second year in the FBS.
Missouri State, meanwhile, has been a bit more exciting – granted with lower expectations.
The Bears are 2-3 overall and 0-1 in CUSA standings in their first year since leaving the FCS. But they’ve been decently competitive, most recently falling against Western Kentucky, one of the front runners in the conference, 27-22.
Will Missouri State continue to play with momentum or will MTSU finally turn things around?
Missouri State vs. Middle Tennessee Spread & Betting Odds
Middle Tennessee is a +2.5 college football betting odds underdog against Missouri State, with the Over/Under being 49.5 as of this writing.
The moneyline for Missouri State is -135, while it’s +110 for Middle Tennessee.
Missouri State vs. Middle Tennessee On TV
The matchup between Missouri State and Middle Tennessee will be televised on ESPN2.
The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The contest is taking place at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Missouri State vs. Middle Tennessee Prediction
I predict Middle Tennessee will win and therefore cover the 2.5-point spread. I also project the game will go Over 49.5 total points.
I might’ve picked Missouri State to win if I knew everyone was going to be healthy. But Bears quarterback Jacob Clark, who’s thrown for 1,195 yards, eight touchdowns, and six interceptions while rushing for two TDs, has been dealing with an injury. Even if he plays, he may not be 100%.
And I think MTSU, playing at home after a bye, will be highly motivated to get back on track after that disappointing loss to Kennesaw State.
Blue Raiders quarterback Nicholas Vattiato hasn’t always been perfect – he’s thrown for 1,125 yards, six touchdowns, and four interceptions on a 59% completion rate while rushing for two TDs. However, I think he’s capable of playing at a high level in this matchup.
Jekail Middlebrook is also coming off a solid game against KSU. The MTSU running back has rushed for 340 yards and two touchdowns and has caught 18 passes for 146 yards. I think he can give the Blue Raiders some balance on offense.
Led by Nahzae Cox, who has caught 24 passes for 341 yards and four touchdowns, I also expect MTSU’s skill position players to collectively step up. The Bears have been decent on defense, but I anticipate MTSU will put up some points in this midweek matchup en route to a win.
