There isn’t anything easy about the first month of Bowling Green’s schedule. So much so that an 0-5 start isn’t out of the question.
The Falcons face a solid FCS program, two Power Four opponents, and arguably their toughest MAC game all before the leaves start to change colors. The good news is that I think they have a good chance of winning at least half of their conference games.
College football betting odds have BGSU’s win total at Over/Under 4.5 wins, with the Over at -160 and the Under at +140.
Here are game-by-game predictions for the Falcons in Eddie George’s second season as head coach coach:
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Sept. 5 vs. Tarleton State
Prediction: Win
The Texans bring in a haul of 63 new players this season, but I anticipate coach Todd Whitten will have his team prepared like he usually does. This isn’t an easy first game of the season for BGSU, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the Falcons lose, but I think their defense carries them here.
Sept. 12 at Nebraska
Prediction: Loss
This will be Nebraska’s second MAC opponent early on, as the Huskers host Ohio to start the season. Last year, they defeated Akron 68-0. I don’t think this will be that big of a rout, but I don’t expect the Falcons to pull off the upset.
Sept. 19 at Iowa State
Prediction: Loss
Though the Cyclones aren’t expected to win a ton of games this year or be a serious competitor in the Big Ten, I think they’ll still be too much for BGSU.
Sept. 26 vs. South Florida
Prediction: Loss
USF has the highest projected win total in the American at 8.5. High aspirations for a first-year coach and a revamped roster, but its strength of schedule (or lack thereof) is a big reason why. I think this will be a tough trip for the Bulls, but they’ll find a way to leave Ohio with a win.
Oct. 3 at Miami (Ohio)
Prediction: Loss
MAC play doesn’t get off to an easy start when the Falcons travel to Oxford. I think this game will shape out exactly how Miami wants it to – a low-scoring defensive battle. The RedHawks typically prevail in those outings.
Oct. 10 vs. Sacramento State
Prediction: Win
The Hornets will be coming off a bye, but I anticipate the Falcons will be on a losing skid here and will desperately need a victory.
Oct. 17 vs. Ball State
Prediction: Win
Even under head coach Mike Uremovich, Ball State struggled to string together wins last season. This year could be the same with the amount of turnover on the roster and a lack of offensive firepower. I expect the Cardinals will have problems scoring on BGSU’s defense.
Oct. 24 at Buffalo
Prediction: Win
Buffalo won only one home game last season (Saint Francis), and I think the Bulls will defeat UMass at home the week prior. But I believe BGSU will be coming into this one with a ton of confidence after a pair of victories.
Oct. 31 at Western Michigan
Prediction: Loss
The Broncos’ second double-digit win season in program history came last year by controlling the trenches. Can they do that again this year? As of now, I like their chances, and I think WMU running back Jalen Buckley will run through the MAC this year.
Nov. 10 vs. Kent State
Prediction: Win
I think Kent State will be competitive again this year after a pair of lowly seasons. I also think they’ll be entering this game on a two-game winning streak, but it’ll end here during Tuesday night MACtion.
Nov. 20 at Toledo
Prediction: Loss
A new era in Toledo begins with Mike Jacobs, but it doesn’t matter who the coach is – the Rockets always seem to still be successful. I don’t know if a league title is on the horizon for them this year, but they have a ton of studs from the FCS who I’m sure will have no problems adjusting to the FBS and the MAC.
Nov. 28 vs. UMass
Prediction: Win
With five wins at this point, there could be a more difficult bowl-clinching scenario. I do think UMass’ offense will be surprisingly decent and could put up some points, but I think head coach Eddie George’s squad ends the regular season on a high note.
Bowling Green Football Season Prediction
I predict BGSU will flirt with six wins and win at least five games.
The Falcons’ non-conference schedule is tough, but it should prepare them for their less difficult conference slate. I expect BGSU’s defense to keep them in most MAC games this year and for the Falcons to take some strides in George’s second season.
