MAC Conference 2024 Preview: Odds, Predictions, and Key Insights
Written by: Colby Marchio
Last Update: Thu Aug 22, 2024, 2:41 pm ET
Read Time: 4 minutes
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It's time to dive into everyone's favorite college football conference—the Mid-American Conference. Known for its gritty play, it's the one your dad tunes into every Tuesday night in the fall.
Odds to Win MAC Championship
Can Toledo upset Miami (OH) and take the MAC home this year?
Odds are courtesy of BetOnline, and industry leader in the sports betting world offering a wide variety of markets and the best odds at any book. Use code BNEWS and sign up today for a 50% deposit match up to $1,000 AND $10 CASH instantly in your account.
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- Miami (OH) +250
- Toledo +290
- Bowling Green +550
- Western Michigan +550
- Northern Illinois +650
- Ohio +1000
- Central Michigan +1600
- Eastern Michigan +2500
- Buffalo +3300
- Ball State +3300
- Akron +6600
- Kent State +10000
Let's dive in to see who should take the MAC in 2024!
The MAC Belongs to the Redhawks
Red Shirt Senior Brett Gabbert set to return after 2023 leg injury
As Drake said, "Back to back like Jordan '96-'97," and that's exactly what the Miami Ohio RedHawks should aim for this season in the Mid-American Conference. Last season, Miami went 7-1 in conference play, with their only loss a narrow 21-17 defeat to Toledo at home.
Their standout defense was crucial to their success and will be a key factor in their bid to repeat as champions. They held MAC opponents to just 11.1 points per game and are returning six defensive starters, making them a dominant force again.
Offensively, they welcome back Bret Gabbert, who missed part of last season due to a leg injury. In eight starts, Gabbert threw for over 1,500 yards, 14 touchdowns, and five interceptions, leading the RedHawks to a 6-2 record in those games. Now healthy, the redshirt senior is set for a standout year as one of the conference's top quarterbacks.
Miami also retains four starting offensive linemen and key playmakers like tight end Jack Coldiron and receivers Cade McDonald and Javon Tracy. Though they lost running back Rashad Amos, they've added Dylan Downing from Purdue, who should be an excellent replacement.
I'm confident the RedHawks are primed to repeat as MAC champions in 2024.
Dark Horse to Win the MAC?
Northern Illinois Huskies are fired up for another year of MAC-tion
Northern Illinois is a clear dark horse to win the MAC for several compelling reasons. They're bringing back 13 starters after a strong rebound season (7-6, 5-3) following a rough previous year (3-9, 2-6).
A team with this many returning starters is always intriguing, especially in an era of frequent transfers. It reflects dedication to the program and belief in head coach Thomas Hammock's rebuilding efforts.
While the quarterback position is a question mark without Rocky Lombardi, either Jalen Macon (Arkansas-Pine Bluff transfer) or Ethan Hampton should step up. The Huskies' solid offensive core will still pose challenges for defenses.
Defensively, NIU was outstanding last year, allowing under 20 points per game. With eight starters returning, they're primed for another strong season.
At +650 to win the conference, the NIU Huskies are a worthwhile bet and a solid choice for a season-long wager.
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Former D1 (club) baseball player, Colby has been betting since his college days at DePaul, where he had to endure the worst collegiate basketball the Big East has ever seen. He is an advanced analytics nerd and has never seen an underdog he has not liked. Hot. Corn. Bull. It does not matter the dog he loves them all.
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