The Central Michigan Chippewas (6–4, 4–2 MAC) head to Kent State to take on the Golden Flashes (4–6, 3–3 MAC) in an important Wednesday night MAC game. Central Michigan has already secured bowl eligibility, but this road game is a must-win for their hopes of making the MAC championship game. Kent State will be motivated at home as they look to keep their bowl hopes alive going into the final week of their season. Before kickoff, you can find my Central Michigan vs Kent State prediction below.
Our Central Michigan vs Kent State Pick
Pick: Kent State +9.5
Confidence: ★★★★☆
Game Snapshot
- Matchup: Central Michigan Chippewas vs Kent State Golden Flashes
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 7:00 PM ET
- Venue: Dix Stadium, Kent, Ohio
- Broadcast: ESPNU
Key Storylines
This is more than a routine conference game for both sides. Central Michigan, under first‑year coach Matt Drinkall, has already reached bowl eligibility and is eyeing a strong finish in the MAC. A win here would bolster its chances for a championship-game berth, especially if other results go its way. A victory would also mark their third straight win over Kent State on the road. Kent State is still fighting to stay relevant. Mark Carney’s team has struggled for consistency, but they do have four wins and have looked a lot better this year than they did last season.
Central Michigan has won three of its last four games coming into this contest. Another win here would move them to 5-2 in the MAC this season and keep them in a tie for second place in the conference standings. Kent State needs to win out to see bowl season, but just being in a position to play for six wins is a huge improvement for that program.
Quarterback Play
Central Michigan quarterback Joe Labas has been efficient for the Chippewas. He’s completed a high percentage of passes while protecting the ball well, giving Central Michigan a steady and reliable presence under center when he has played.
Kent State’s signal‑caller has been dynamic. Dru DeShields has the arm to make big throws and has shown he can lead the offense in important moments. DeShields has 16 touchdowns and just 2 interceptions on the season. If he gets into a rhythm, Kent State has enough weapons to keep pace, especially at home.
Betting Trends
- Central Michigan is 7-3 against the spread this season.
- Kent State is 5-5 against the spread for the year.
- The over is 7-3 in Central Michigan’s games this season.
- Kent State has split its over/unders 5-5 this year.
Central Michigan vs Kent State Model Projection
- Score Projection: Central Michigan 28 – Kent State 21
- Win Probability: Central Michigan 70%, Kent State 30%
Final Thoughts
Central Michigan should win this game on the road and keep themselves in the MAC title game chase for another week. But I’m going to take the points with the Kent State Golden Flashes at home. They are starting to put things together offensively and that should help them to remain competitive in this contest on their home turf.
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