The 2023 68 Ventures Bowl features a matchup between a Sun Belt team and a MAC team, with the (6-6) South Alabama Jaguars facing the (6-6) Eastern Michigan Eagles. South Alabama enters this game with a recent success, winning two out of their last three games. Despite their program’s history of three bowl appearances, the Jaguars currently hold a 0-3 record in those matchups. On the other side, Eastern Michigan secures their spot with two consecutive wins, marking their third straight season of bowl eligibility. The Eagles have participated in seven bowl games in their program’s history, with a 2-5 record in those matchups.

South Alabama enters this game as a 17-point favorite, with the over/under set at 45. With that information in mind, let’s delve into my preview for the 2023 68 Ventures Bowl.

South Alabama Jaguars

outh Alabama was anticipated to make waves in college football, but their performance this season fell short of expectations. Offensively, they averaged 30.9 points per game and just under 440 total yards of offense per game. However, several key players won’t be participating in this bowl game, including their top wideout Caullin Lacy (91 catches, 1,316 receiving yards, 7 touchdowns), who is entering the transfer portal. Starting quarterback Carter Bradley, dealing with a knee injury, may share duties with other quarterbacks. Additionally, starting running back La’Damian Webb (1,007 rushing yards, 5.4 yards per carry, and 16 touchdowns) won’t play due to an injury as he explores the NFL Draft. This leaves numerous uncertainties surrounding the Jaguars’ offense in this matchup.

Defensively, the Jaguars appear poised for success. They allow 21.9 points per game and give up an average of 340 total yards of offense per game. South Alabama faced challenges in games where opponents scored over 30 points, going 0-5 in such matchups in 2023. Despite this, the Jaguars boast defensive talent, and in this particular matchup, they should showcase a performance that exceeds expectations. A strong showing is anticipated from the South Alabama defense.

Eastern Michigan Eagles

Eastern Michigan’s offensive performance in 2023 might be among the weakest of the bowl-eligible teams. They averaged 20.3 points per game and just under 300 total yards of offense per game. The offense encountered persistent struggles throughout the season, compounded by starting quarterback Austin Smith entering the transfer portal. Some speculate that the Eagles might fare better without him. The focal point of this offense is running back Samson Evans, whose contributions were essential for Eastern Michigan’s bowl eligibility. Evans rushed for 635 yards on 4.5 yards per carry and added 12 touchdowns. Success in this bowl game hinges on a strong performance from him.

Defensively, the Eagles excelled in 2023, with only two opponents scoring over 30 points against them—a notable achievement for a non-Power Five school. Throughout the season, Eastern Michigan allowed 23.8 points per game and held opponents to 394.9 total yards of offense per game. However, they struggled against the run, permitting 177.5 rushing yards per game. To stay competitive in this game, they must find a way to contain South Alabama’s rushing attack. Anticipate a solid overall performance from the Eagles’ defense in this bowl matchup.

Betting Trends

-The under is 4-1 in South Alabama’s last 5 games. 

-South Alabama is 15-5 straight up in their last 20 games as a favorite.

-The over is 4-2 in Eastern Michigan’s last 6 games.

-Eastern Michigan is 1-6 straight up in their last 7 games as an underdog.

The Don’s Best Bet

I have one play in this one. With the line where it is my mind immediately goes to the over/under. My official play in this one is over 45 -108 for one unit. Trust me this game screams under here. However, in those games where it screamed under all bowl season long it has gone over. I think these teams can get over this total and I’ll take it to the cash counter.