[metabet_core_odds_compare query=”ncaaf/fiu” size=”300×250″ site_id=”atsio” css=”float:right; margin-left:10px”]It is best vs worst in the Conference USA as #19 Marshall Thundering Herd (5-0, 3-0) visit the Florida International Panthers (0-3, 0-1) on Friday, October 30, 2020. Marshall has one of the top defenses in the country and Florida International is coming off the worst loss in the FBS this season. This game will air live on CBS Sports Network at 7:00 p.m. EST.
Through five games, the Marshall offense is averaging 33.8 points per game and 427.2 yards per game, 229.6 through the air and 197.6 on the ground. Defensively, the Thundering Herd are allowing just 9.4 (!) points and 265.0 yards, 193.0 passing and 72.0 rushing. The most points Marshall has allowed this season is 17 and the Thundering Herd have one shutout.
Florida International, in three games, is averaging 24.0 points per game and 262.7 yards per game, 92.7 through the air and 170.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Panthers are allowing 28.7 points and 458.3 yards, 245.0 passing and 213.3 rushing.
Below is my pick for the #19 Marshall Thundering Herd at Florida International Panthers. All odds are from SugarHouse Sportsbook.
#19 Marshall Thundering Herd (-23.5) at Florida International Panthers: O/U 48.5 (-109/-112)
Last time out, Marshall hosted the Florida Atlantic Owls and overcame a slow start to win 20-9. Marshall was up 7-6 at the half but won the second half 13-3 to comfortably win their fifth straight game to start the season. Quarterback Grant Wells went 18/31 for 251 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Running back Brenden Knox carried the ball 25 times for 101 yards and added two receptions for 55 yards and one touchdown. The Marshall defense allowed FAU to gain just 234 total yards of offense and forced one Owls interception.
Florida International hosted FCS Jacksonville State and suffered a disappointing 19-10 loss. The Panthers took a 3-0 lead, but Jacksonville State scored the next 16 points to take a 13-point advantage midway through the third quarter. FIU narrowed the deficit to six points heading into the fourth quarter but could not get the ball in the endzone to complete the comeback. The Panthers had just 84 yards passing and 72 yards on the ground.
Series History: Marshall is currently on a two-game winning streak and lead the all-time series 6-2.
Football Picks: The Thundering Herd rolls. Give me Marshall -23.5.
2020 CFB Picks Results: 21-14