Miami RedHawks Face Buffalo Bulls in Crucial MAC Showdown

The Miami RedHawks will clash with the Buffalo Bulls on November 19, 2023, in a pivotal Mid-American Conference (MAC) matchup. Both teams come into the game with a record of 5-5, but they face significant challenges that could impact their chances of success. The RedHawks have lost their last two games and recently lost their starting quarterback, while the Bulls have won only once in their last three outings and have struggled against the spread.

Current Team Dynamics

Miami’s struggles have been pronounced, particularly following the exit of starting quarterback DeQuan Finn from the program. In his absence, backup quarterback Henry Hesson has not performed well, struggling in his last appearance against Toledo where he completed just 11 of 38 passes for 147 yards, with no touchdowns and three interceptions. This performance raises concerns about the RedHawks’ offensive capabilities heading into this matchup.

On the other side, Buffalo has not fared much better, having lost two of their last three games. They have covered the spread only once since mid-September, going 1-7-1 against the spread in their last eight games. Despite their struggles, both teams maintain a solid conference record of 4-2 and are only one game behind the conference-leading Central Michigan, making this game crucial for their title aspirations.

Defensive Strengths and Offensive Strategies

The Bulls’ defense appears to be their strongest asset. Buffalo ranks 21st in the country for defensive success rate, 28th on dropbacks, and 22nd against the run. They are also second among MAC teams in opponent yards per play, which should pose significant challenges for Miami’s inexperienced quarterback. This has led analysts to believe that Buffalo’s defense could be the deciding factor in this matchup.

Despite their defensive strength, Buffalo must also find some production from their passing game to secure a win. Quarterback Ta’Quan Roberson has been prone to interceptions recently but has averaged 243.9 passing yards over his last seven games, throwing for at least 208 yards in five of those contests. His favorite target, wide receiver Victor Snow, has made significant contributions this season, with 49 catches for 622 yards and seven touchdowns.

Miami will likely lean on running back Jordan Brunson in an effort to establish their ground game, especially with Hesson’s struggles in the passing attack. The RedHawks will need a strong performance from Brunson to keep Buffalo’s defense honest and create opportunities in the air.

The matchup is set against a backdrop of historical trends, as the home team has won and covered the spread in the last seven meetings between these two teams since 2017. Although both teams have faced difficulties this season, Buffalo’s defensive prowess and Miami’s quarterback situation will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

Betting analysts suggest that despite Buffalo’s poor betting record this season, the matchup is favorable for them, with many predicting an upset. The Bulls are currently listed as 1.5-point home underdogs, but given the RedHawks’ recent inconsistencies, there is potential for a turnaround.

As the teams prepare to take the field on Wednesday night, all eyes will be on the performance of both quarterbacks and how effectively their respective defenses can dictate the pace of the game. This midweek MACtion clash promises to be a critical moment in the race for the conference title.