Cure Bowl: Miami-OH vs Appalachian State Odds, and Picks (Dec 16)

• Miami-Ohio won the MAC Championship, after defeating Toledo, 23-14.
• Appalachian State was defeated by Troy, 49-23, in the Sun Belt title game.
• This matchup will be the first time in program history that these teams face off.

The college football season has reached the bowl games! Let’s preview the 2023 Cure Bowl between the Miami-Ohio Redhawks and the Appalachian State Mountaineers, two of the very best Group of 5 teams.

How to Watch

• ABC

Preview

Miami added to their already excellent season with a triumphant win over Toledo in the MAC title game. It allowed them to reach 11 wins for the first time since 2003, with a chance to claim a 12th in this game. The Redhawks have come a long way from their 0-12 season exactly a decade ago. Their stellar defense was the key to their success this season, and will play a large role in their chances against Appalachian State.

Appalachian State posted their 10th straight .500 or better record this year, doing so every single season since being promoted from the FCS to the FBS back in 2014. The Mountaineers also returned to the Sun Belt title game and clinched a bowl game, after missing out on both last season. Unfortunately, they were overwhelmed by Troy’s offense in the title game, but still have a chance to end this season with a win here.

Prediction

I’m genuinely surprised to see Miami as such a large underdog in this game. While it’s true that the Sun Belt is a far better conference than the MAC, the Redhawks had an exceptional season. Appalachian State is undoubtedly a good team, but they are not at the same level as previous years. I expect to see Miami’s defense clamp down on the Mountaineers, making things difficult for them. I’ll take the Redhawks to win.

NCAAF Picks:

• Miami-OH 21, Appalachian State 13 ()