Ohio Bobcats Seek Bowl Eligibility in Crucial Black Friday MAC Showdown

The Ohio Bobcats face the Buffalo Bulls in a high-stakes Black Friday matchup with major postseason implications. This MAC conference clash kicks off at 12:00 PM ET on November 28 at UB Stadium. The game will decide bowl eligibility for the home team while solidifying the visitor’s postseason resume.

According to ESPN, the Bobcats enter with a 7-4 record and a 5-2 mark in MAC play. Buffalo sits at 5-6 and must win to secure the six victories required for bowl consideration. The rivalry adds intensity to an already critical late-season contest.

Ohio’s Ground Attack Poses Major Threat to Buffalo’s Defense

Ohio’s offense is powered by star running back Sieh Bangura. He is coming off a career-high 196 rushing yards against UMass. That performance earned him MAC Co-Offensive Player of the Week honors.

For the season, Bangura has rushed for 1,123 yards and 13 touchdowns. His dominance sets up a glaring weakness for Buffalo. The Bulls’ defense ranks 100th nationally against the run, allowing 138.8 yards per game.

This mismatch will likely dictate the game’s tempo. Ohio will aim to control the clock and wear down the Buffalo front. The Bulls must find an answer for Bangura to have any chance.

Bowl Eligibility on the Line for Desperate Buffalo Squad

The primary narrative is Buffalo’s fight for a bowl game. A win gives them the necessary sixth victory. A loss ends their season immediately after the final whistle.

CBS Sports notes that several 5-7 teams have received bowl bids in recent years due to academic progress rate (APR) scores. However, a sixth win guarantees participation. This certainty adds immense pressure for the Bulls playing at home.

Conversely, Ohio aims to improve its bowl destination. An eighth win would make the Bobcats more attractive to higher-profile postseason games. Team momentum heading into December is also a key factor.

Game Dynamics and Key Factors for an Upset

Buffalo’s hope lies in its home-field advantage and balanced offense. The Bulls have scored 15 passing and 13 rushing touchdowns this season. They must execute efficiently and limit Ohio’s rushing attempts.

Turnovers and special teams often decide high-pressure games. A quick score or a pivotal interception could swing momentum to the home side. Buffalo’s red zone defense, ranked 15th nationally, must hold firm when it matters most.

Ohio is currently favored by approximately a touchdown. The Bobcats’ consistent performance makes them the safer pick. But desperation can be a powerful motivator on senior day.

This Black Friday showdown encapsulates the drama of college football’s regular-season finale. The Ohio Bobcats’ bowl eligibility is secure, but their pursuit of a better postseason prize adds stake. For Buffalo, it’s a simple win-or-go-home proposition that will define their season.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Ohio vs. Buffalo game?

The game kicks off at 12:00 PM Eastern Time on Friday, November 28. It will be televised for a national audience on ESPN Plus.

What are the bowl eligibility rules?

Teams generally need six wins against FBS opponents to qualify for a bowl game. There are a limited number of spots for 5-7 teams based on their Academic Progress Rate scores.

How has Sieh Bangura performed this season?

The Ohio running back has been exceptional, surpassing 1,100 rushing yards. He has scored 13 touchdowns and averages over five yards per carry.

What is Buffalo’s record at home this season?

Buffalo has had mixed results at UB Stadium. Their performance there today will be crucial for generating energy and securing the win they need.

Which bowl games are projected for Ohio?

Early projections suggest Ohio could land in a mid-tier MAC-affiliated bowl. Potential destinations include games in Alabama, Michigan, or the Bahamas.

Has Buffalo beaten Ohio recently?

The recent series history has been competitive. The home team has often had an advantage in this particular MAC rivalry matchup.