Florida International Panthers vs Arkansas State Red Wolves
Saturday, December 21st, 2019 – 05:30 PM EST at Cramton Bowl (Montgomery, Alabama)
The latest odds point to a highly competitive Camellia Bowl between Florida International and Arkansas State. Finishing the year 6-6, Florida International narrowly lost their final game 30-27 to Marshall, while the 7-5 Arkansas State Red Wolves fell 34-30 to South Alabama. So far, 54-percent of bets have favored Arkansas State, which also points to a highly contested affair this weekend.
Starting with Florida International, the Panthers remain balanced on offense with a 46-percent pass rate. Arkansas State’s defense ranks 116th in total yards allowed per game (477.9), setting up FIU to impose their will. However, the Red Wolves struggle primarily against opposing rushing attacks, allowing 224.2 rushing yards per game. In the last two weeks, Anthony Jones has received 33 touches, with 164 rushing yards and a pair of scores. With Arkansas State struggling to defend, Jones and the FIU offense should find ways to move the ball here.
On the other side, Arkansas State faces a tough Florida International defense. Arkansas State passed the ball on 51.3-percent of their plays this year, but Florida International only allowed 174.4 passing yards per game. While this may alter Arkansas State’s offensive game plan, the Red Wolves still find an advantageous matchup on the ground. Florida International allows 210.5 rushing yards per game, setting up Marcel Murray and Jamal Jones for productive games. With the pair combining for 20+ carries in back-to-back games Arkansas State should also find ways to move the ball here.