The Minnesota Golden Gophers (5-7) are set to clash with the Bowling Green Falcons (7-5) in the upcoming Quick Lane Bowl. With Minnesota aiming to snap a four-game losing streak and Bowling Green looking to build on a strong end to their season, this matchup at Ford Field promises to be a compelling battle of wills.
Minnesota vs. Bowling Green Odds
- Moneyline: Bowling Green +145 (BetMGM) / Minnesota -170 (FanDuel)
- Spread: Minnesota -3.5 (FanDuel)
- Total: 39.5 / Over -110 (FanDuel) / -110 (FanDuel)
Game Info
- Date: Tuesday, Dec. 26
- Time: 02:00 PM ET
- Location: Ford Field – Detroit, MI
- TV: ESPN
Bowling Green Falcons Betting Trends
- On the road, Bowling Green Falcons are 4 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Bowling Green Falcons are 8 and 4.
- Against the spread on the road, Bowling Green Falcons are 5 and 2.
Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Trends
- At home, Minnesota Golden Gophers are 4 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Minnesota Golden Gophers are 3 and 9.
- Against the spread at home, Minnesota Golden Gophers are 2 and 5.
Minnesota vs. Bowling Green Predictions
The 2023 Quick Lane Bowl presents an intriguing matchup between two teams with contrasting fortunes. The Minnesota Golden Gophers, under the guidance of P.J. Fleck, have struggled offensively this season, ranking near the bottom among Power 5 programs in several offensive categories. They’ll be without starting quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, who entered the transfer portal, adding to their offensive woes. However, Minnesota’s recent bowl history is encouraging, boasting a 4-0 record in bowl games under Fleck and an active six-game bowl winning streak.
Bowling Green, on the other hand, has shown a strong defensive performance this season, leading the FBS in takeaways and finishing in the top three of the MAC with 33 sacks. The Falcons’ defense, which allowed an average of 23.5 points per game, will look to capitalize on Minnesota’s offensive struggles. Key players to watch include Bowling Green’s defensive unit against Minnesota’s senior wide receiver Daniel Jackson, who has been a dynamic figure for the Gophers’ offense.
Minnesota vs. Bowling Green Pick
The Minnesota Golden Gophers are favored to win against the spread, and despite their offensive struggles, their impressive bowl game history under coach P.J. Fleck cannot be overlooked. With a 4-0 record in bowl games and a six-game bowl winning streak, the Gophers have demonstrated the ability to perform when it matters most.
Additionally, Minnesota’s defense has been relatively solid, which could help them contain Bowling Green’s offense. While the Falcons boast a strong defensive unit, Minnesota’s experience in high-stakes games and the potential for senior wide receiver Daniel Jackson to make significant plays give the Gophers an edge in covering the spread.
Furthermore, Bowling Green’s impressive defensive stats came against MAC opponents, and they may not be as dominant against a Power 5 team like Minnesota, even with the Gophers’ offensive challenges.
Minnesota is the right pick to cover the spread in the Quick Lane Bowl.
The Pick: Minnesota Golden Gophers -3.5 (FanDuel)