Ball State Seeks Third Straight Win at UMass

Ball State enters Wednesday’s matchup at Massachusetts on a two-game winning streak and has covered the spread in four straight, while UMass has lost four consecutive games. The Minutemen have a stronger defense, rank first in the Mid-American Conference in total defense, and have forced turnovers at a high rate; Ball State ranks last in the conference in total defense. Ball State coach Mike Uremovich emphasized that his team will need to run effectively against UMass, whose quarterback William Watson III has missed the past three games, according to the team preview. One betting analysis recommends Ball State plus 3.5, citing UMass’ recent offensive struggles and the Cardinals’ recent form.