Following a coaching change, it wouldn’t have been surprising if Central Michigan needed a few weeks to get in a rhythm and find an identity.
But CMU didn’t need that at all. Central Michigan went on the road and defeated San Jose State 16-14 in Week 1, giving Matt Drinkall his first win as head coach.
CMU relied on its rushing attack, which produced 236 yards on the ground, to get the win. Nahree Biggins led the team with 102 yards on 18 carries, while Trey Cornist added 99 yards and a touchdown on 13 rushing attempts.
The Chippewas showed they might be able to compete in the MAC this season. But will CMU manage to keep the momentum going against a Power Four team this week?
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Central Michigan vs. Pitt Betting Odds
Pitt is a -22.5 college football betting odds favorite against Central Michigan, with the Over/Under being 50.5.
The moneyline for Central Michigan is +1050, while it’s -2500 for Pitt.
Central Michigan vs. Pitt On TV
The matchup between Central Michigan and Pitt will be televised on ESPNU.
The game will kick off at noon ET on Saturday, Sept. 6. The contest is taking place at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Central Michigan vs. Pitt Prediction
I predict Pitt will win but Central Michigan will cover the 22.5-point spread. I also project the game will go Under 50.5 total points.
I ultimately believe Pitt will find a way to be victorious here. But I think it’ll be much closer than some may expect.
And that’s because of what I saw from Central Michigan in Week 1.
The Chippewas were able to control the game on the ground, averaging 4.6 yards per carry on 51 attempts. But they also won the turnover margin 3-0, forcing San Jose State into mistakes while limiting their own.
I think Pitt is too talented to lose at home. But don’t be surprised if CMU manages to keep this close going into the fourth quarter.
