Eastern Kentucky Colonels vs Austin Peay Governors Predictions

Eastern Kentucky vs. Austin Peay odds and prediction

Austin Peay's No. 7 ranking in the AFCA Coaches Poll and its -1020 SPF moneyline make the Governors the likely winner at Fortera Stadium. Austin Peay is favored by 17.5 points, Eastern Kentucky is +599 on the moneyline, and the total is 52.5.

The winner is easier to identify than the best bet. There isn't enough current information about Austin Peay's record, recent results, starters or injuries to judge whether the Governors should cover 17.5 points. The moneyline offers little return at -1020, so the betting pick is Pass.

Eastern Kentucky can shorten the game

Clarksville Now, a local news outlet covering the matchup, reports that Eastern Kentucky averages 170.9 rushing yards per game and leads the UAC in carries and time of possession. Brady Hensley ranks third in the conference with 771 rushing yards. That approach could limit Austin Peay's possessions, but it doesn't establish value on the underdog without a comparable statistical profile for the favorite.

Eastern Kentucky University Athletics reports that Hensley ran for 139 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-24 loss at Tarleton State. The Colonels gained 474 yards and forced three turnovers, while Myles Burkett completed 11 of 17 passes for 248 yards and a touchdown after entering in the second quarter for his first appearance of the season.

Burkett's performance was encouraging, but Eastern Kentucky has used four quarterbacks with at least 17 pass attempts this season. That uncertainty makes the Colonels difficult to project against a ranked opponent, even though they have won the past two meetings with Austin Peay.