2013 Record: 10-3

2014 Las Vegas Season Win Total: 8.5*

2014 Season Win Total Prediction: 'Over'

Call me crazy but I think this is the year that Ball State finishes above Northern Illinois in the MAC West. I know that they lost a huge piece in quarterback Keith Wenning, but their schedule is considerably easier than NIU's. Look for Ball State to take advantage of this and to get to double-digit victories again this season. I would be surprised to see them push Toledo for the West crown.

As mentioned, the Cardinals will have to replace their record-setting QB but they will turn their focus on the running game. Ball State is returning both Jahwan Edwards and Horactio Banks. The two-headed running game combined for 1700 yards last season. Look for the Cardinals to rely heavily on the backs. Wideout Jordan Williams is primed for a huge year with the departure of Willie Snead and I wouldn't be surprised to see him eclipse his mark of 10 touchdowns last season.

On the opposite side of the ball the Cardinals trot out an impressive secondary and a solid linebacking core lead by Ben Ingle. Ball State's defensive line is a bit raw, but with a secondary as deep as it is, the line will have more time to rush the passer than in years past. Special teams should be interesting for the Cards as they have a good kicking game, but they are losing a great returner in Jamill Smith. His replacement could have a huge impact on the team. This is one position to keep your eye on.

Overall, I think that Ball State is one of the best teams in the MAC West, and with their schedule I don't think I am wrong. The Cardinals have an easier schedule than both Toledo and Northern Illinois and I see them taking advantage of it.

2014 Ball State Cardinals Schedule

DATE OPPONENT TIME (ET) Location Result

Sat, Aug 30^th, 2014 Colgate 02:00 PM Scheumann Stadium

Sat, Sep 6^th, 2014 @ Iowa 03:30 PM Kinnick Stadium

Sat, Sep 13^th, 2014 Indiana State 03:00 PM Scheumann Stadium

Sat, Sep 20^th, 2014 @ Toledo TBD Glass Bowl Stadium

Sat, Oct 4^th, 2014 @ Army 12:00 PM Michie Stadium

Sat, Oct 11^th, 2014 Western Michigan TBD Scheumann Stadium

Sat, Oct 18^th, 2014 @ Cent Michigan TBD Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Sat, Oct 25, 2014 Akron TBD Scheumann Stadium

Wed, Nov 5, 2014 Northern Illinois 08:00 PM Scheumann Stadium

Wed, Nov 12^th, 2014 @ UMASS 08:00 PM Gillette Stadium

Sat, Nov 22^nd, 2014 Eastern Michigan TBD Scheumann Stadium

Fri, Nov 28^th, 2014 @ Bowling Green TBD Doyt Perry Stadium

All Times EST

*Season Win Total Odds from Raphael Esparza. Esparza was a Las Vegas sportsbook manager for 13 years at some of the largest books on The Strip. He is a proven oddsmaker and this is his projected total.

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