Marshall vs. Rice

At the beginning of the season, I'm not sure many thought that the C-USA Championship would involve either Marshall or Rice. But, each of these teams went 9-3 (7-1 in conference play) to earn their spots in this game. Rice has been strong offensively, but at the same time have been slowed by some decent defensive teams. In just their last four games the Owls managed just 17 points in their season finale vs. Tulane and 16 vs. North Texas. Marshall has found their way into this game with a strong defense. The Thundering Herd allowed 28 points or less in nine games, prior to overtime, and 23 or less eight times. I think that the oddsmakers have been a bit too robust with the total here, especially in a game of this magnitude for both of these teams. Rice has played to a 19-7 mark to the UNDER in their last 26 at home, and their last six overall when played against an opponent with a winning record have seen the UNDER go a perfect 6-0. I look for the MAC Championship to stay UNDER this high total.