Western Kentucky vs. Old Dominion – Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (7-5) will meet Old Dominion Monarchs (6-6) for an intriguing college football battle on Monday, December 18, 2023 in the NCAAF Famous Toastery Bowl. Not only will this match-up provide fans of free picks a great chance to compare two teams’ seasons but it is also an invaluable chance for NCAAF Bowl free picks enthusiasts to assess and place bets.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Old Dominion Monarchs
Date & Time: Monday, December 18, 2023, at 2:30 PM ET
Location: Jerry Richardson Stadium
TV: ESPN+
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Old Dominion Monarchs Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Western Kentucky | +140 | +3 (-104) | 54 over -109 |
| Old Dominion | -160 | -3 (-116) | 54 under -111 |
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Analysis
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers quarterback Austin Reed led his team to an outstanding offensive performance this season, amassing an outstanding 61.5% completion rate that resulted in 3,340 passing yards and 31 touchdowns. His arm strength and accuracy played an essential role in their success. Reed’s ability to throw long passes, evidenced by his 75-yard longest pass, adds depth and variety to the Hilltoppers’ offense. Unfortunately, his 11 interceptions illustrate his susceptibility for turnovers that may be exploited by an aggressive Old Dominion defense. The Hilltoppers also heavily rely on their running game, with Elijah Young averaging an impressive 4.8 yards per carry and finding gaps in defense key to creating balance in their offensive strategy. Malachi Corley’s 958 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns demonstrate his role as Reed’s primary target; capable of making significant plays that keep things moving efficiently.
Western Kentucky’s defense has shown some inconsistency. Their record against the spread is cause for alarm and may signal problems when faced with opponents with higher scoring opponents. Old Dominion has excelled at crafting its multidimensional offense, yet has struggled with applying consistent pressure and disrupting opposing quarterbacks – an inconsistency which could prove costly given Old Dominion’s unpredictable environment. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers have struggled in pass defense, sometimes allowing an excessive amount of yardage through the air. Old Dominion Monarchs have long been known for executing explosive plays, so Western Kentucky must focus on tightening this aspect of their game in order to be competitive; their offensive play must put pressure on Old Dominion while strengthening their defensive line against counterattacks from them.
Old Dominion Monarchs Analysis
Old Dominion’s offensive success this season has been propelled by quarterback Grant Wilson, whose stats demonstrate both reliability and vulnerability. Wilson boasts an impressive 56.9% completion rate and 2026 passing yards for 16 touchdowns which illustrate his ability to guide Old Dominion’s aerial attack. However, Western Kentucky’s high number of sacks (51) indicates a potential issue with offensive line protection that may prove crucial against Western Kentucky’s defensive schemes. Meanwhile, Kadarius Calloway-led Monarch ground game has proven more successful. Calloway’s staggering 7.6 yards per carry indicates a highly dynamic and explosive running game capable of breaking big plays against any defense. Wide receiver Reymello Murphy has proven his value with 183 average receiving yards per reception averages over the past season.
Old Dominion has experienced both success and disappointment on defense this season. Their record against the spread, particularly against conference games, illustrates their ability to perform well against familiar foes; something which could prove crucial against Western Kentucky. However, the Monarchs have struggled to remain consistent as evidenced by their 6-12 SU record over their last 18 games. Watch for key areas such as pass defense and their ability to deal with high-scoring offenses when watching them play. To secure a win against Western Kentucky’s high-powered offense, the Monarchs need their defense unit to capitalize on any offensive miscues and contain their high-powered passing game while also preventing major plays on the ground. Such a balanced defensive approach could form the cornerstone of their strategy against them.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Old Dominion Monarchs Against the Spread
Looking at betting trends, Western Kentucky’s struggle against the spread is apparent as they have gone 1-5 ATS over their last six games; however, their scoring has increased with five of seven matches against Old Dominion going over total scoreboard. Conversely, Old Dominion boasts better spread records overall in conference and division matches; however against Western Kentucky their record against them remains weak with just two wins out of seven straight being completed against them (1-6SU).
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Old Dominion Monarchs Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Old Dominion Monarchs (-160). Despite Western Kentucky’s offensive prowess, Old Dominion’s recent form against conference opponents gives them the edge.
Spread: Old Dominion Monarchs -3 (-116). The Monarchs’ defensive capabilities and ATS trends suggest they can cover the spread.
Total: Over 54 (-109). Both teams have shown tendencies to be involved in high-scoring games, making the over a plausible pick.
Predicted Score: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 24, Old Dominion Monarchs 31.
Conclusion Despite both teams possessing their own set of advantages and disadvantages, Old Dominion stands out with their recent form and ATS trends in conference games as the more reliable pick for Canadian online betting enthusiasts. Furthermore, its anticipated high-scoring affair suggests that an over on the total may also be worth taking into consideration.
