Northern Illinois at Fresno State

Northern Illinois worked hard to get to this bowl, winning three of its last four. This team lost at Notre Dame in September, 16-14, as a +28 underdog. The ground game averages 4.8 yards per carry behind RB Gavin Williams (741 yards, 5.5 ypc). QB Ethan Hampton decided to transfer to Illinois, so QB Josh Holst (411 yards) will start. Fresno State was even more ravaged by transfers, losing most of their offensive production. QB Mikey Keene (18 TDs, 11 INTs) is gone, along with two of their top three receivers.  Backup QBs Joshua Wood and Jayden Mandal have to step in. The duo has combined for no TDs, two interceptions, and just 23 passing yards. On defense, Fresno has lost three cornerbacks along with one of their better linebackers in Phoenix Jackson. Play Northern Illinois on the moneyline.