Kent State at Ball State Picks and Predictions for Wednesday, November 5, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 11/02/2025, 08:02 PM ET

The Kent State Golden Flashes (3–5, 2–2 Mid-American Conference) visit the Ball State Cardinals (3–5, 2–2 MAC) on Wednesday night in a conference matchup. Kent State comes off a 24–21 win over Bowling Green and sits seventh in the MAC standings, while Ball State looks to bounce back from a 21–7 loss at Northern Illinois and ranks eighth in the conference. Kick the winning field goal and cash in with our college football picks.

Game Information for Kent State vs Ball State

Kickoff: 7:00 PM ET, November 5

Where: Scheumann Stadium, Muncie, IN

TV: ESPNU

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Kent State Preview

Quarterback Dru DeShields averages 138.6 passing yards per game (1,109 yards, 11 touchdowns, two interceptions) and leads an offense that has shown improvement in recent weeks. Running back Gavin Garcia averages 40.1 rushing yards per game (321 yards, one touchdown), while Cade Wolford averages 26.3 yards per catch with six receiving touchdowns (15 receptions, 395 yards). The Golden Flashes are averaging 18.6 points per game and have improved in third-down and red-zone execution since mid-October.

On defense, safety CJ Young averages 7.3 tackles per game (58), and defensive lineman Jamond Mathis leads the team with three sacks. Kent State allows 36.5 points per game but held Bowling Green to just 21 last week. The key will be protecting DeShields against Ball State’s pressure and limiting losses on first and second downs that have stalled drives throughout the season.

Ball State Preview

Quarterback Kiael Kelly averages 122.8 passing yards per game (982 yards, six touchdowns, five interceptions) and adds a running threat with 417 yards and five scores. Running back Qua Ashley averages 64.1 rushing yards per game (513 yards, four touchdowns) at 5.1 yards per carry, while receiver Qian Magwood averages 18.3 yards per catch (238 yards, one touchdown). The Cardinals average 16.4 points per game and rely on a physical run game to control tempo and keep their defense off the field.

Linebacker Alfred Chea leads the defense with 45 tackles, and defensive end Nathan Voorhis has 10 sacks to anchor a front that’s one of the MAC’s most aggressive. Ball State allows 29.8 points per game but has played stronger defensively at home, holding two opponents under 20 points. The Cardinals’ ability to pressure the pocket and contain the run will test Kent State’s pass protection.

Kent State at Ball State Prediction

Both teams are fighting to become bowl eligible, but Ball State’s running game and defensive front give it the upper hand playing at home. Kent State’s passing attack has been inconsistent on the road, and sustaining drives against Voorhis and company will be difficult. Final Score Prediction: Ball State Cardinals win and cover ATS, 24–17.