The set-up: Ball State is going to double down on the defensive end in my opinion after losing four of its last six games. The Cardinals are averaging 70.8 PPG, but conceding 73.2. To do that though, Ball State is going to have to upset Akron, which enters on a five-game win streak. The Zips average 78.7 PPG, while allowing only 70.4.

The pick: Arkon's a favorite in this game for a reason. The Zips are going to shut down this offensively challenged Cardinals team in my opinion. Ball State has also seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of its last 11 road games after back-to-back SU/ATS road losses, while Akron has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of its last nine after a five games or longer ATS unbeaten streak. I think Ball State slows this one down and I expect this total to stay "under" once the final horn sounds.

The is a 10* MAC TOTAL OF THE YEAR on the UNDER Ball State/Akron.