The 2024 NCAA FCS Playoffs are here, and one exciting first-round matchup features the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks (8-4) taking on the Abilene Christian Wildcats (8-4) in a game that promises to showcase two high-powered offenses. The game will be played at Wildcat Stadium in Abilene, Texas, on November 30, 2024, at 3:00 PM ET, and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Game Details

• Date & Time: November 30, 2024, 3:00 PM ET
• Location: Wildcat Stadium (TX)
• Coverage: ESPN+ (for streaming)
• Live stream: Watch here

Game Overview

This matchup pits two teams with identical records, both at 8-4, but with contrasting styles and strengths. Northern Arizona enters the game with a solid record and a strong finish to the regular season, having won four of their last five games, including a dominant 30-18 victory over Eastern Washington to close out their campaign. The Lumberjacks’ defense has been their backbone, allowing them to clinch a playoff spot.

On the other hand, Abilene Christian comes off a disappointing 32-19 loss to Stephen F. Austin, but they too are a resilient team, having won three of their last five games. The Wildcats’ offensive unit is led by quarterback M. McIvor, who has been lighting up the field with 3,694 passing yards and 29 touchdowns this season, compared to Northern Arizona’s T. Pennington, who has put up 2,090 passing yards and 13 touchdowns.

Key Players to Watch

• Northern Arizona Lumberjacks:
  • T. Pennington (QB): With a 171/255 passing record and 13 TDs, Pennington is capable of controlling the game from the pocket and will need to avoid turnovers against a high-powered ACU offense.
  • S. Cromwell (RB): With 662 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns, Cromwell has been the ground game workhorse for NAU and could be a difference-maker in controlling the clock.
  • B. White (WR): With 39 receptions for 545 yards and 4 touchdowns, White is Pennington’s go-to receiver and can stretch the field with big plays.
• Abilene Christian Wildcats:
  • M. McIvor (QB): McIvor’s impressive 3,694 passing yards and 29 touchdowns make him the focal point of the ACU offense. His ability to air it out will be key to breaking down NAU’s defense.
  • S. Hicks (RB): With over 1,000 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, Hicks is a versatile back capable of both power running and catching passes out of the backfield.
  • B. Taylor (WR): With 65 receptions for 998 yards and 7 touchdowns, Taylor is McIvor’s favorite target and a potential game-changer with his ability to make plays after the catch.

The Matchup

Northern Arizona’s strong defense will be tested by the prolific air attack of Abilene Christian. NAU’s defense has been particularly effective in their last few games, and their ability to stop the pass will be crucial in slowing down McIvor and the Wildcats’ offense.

Conversely, Abilene Christian will need to contain Cromwell and the Lumberjacks’ running game while keeping pressure on Pennington to force mistakes. The Wildcats’ ability to limit NAU’s ground attack could dictate the tempo of the game, allowing McIvor to take over with his passing skills.

Game Predictions and Odds

Northern Arizona enters the game as 2-point favorites with a -115 spread, reflecting their slight edge as the higher-seeded team. The total over/under for the game is set at 55.5 points, indicating a relatively high-scoring game is expected.

With both teams having explosive offenses and strong defensive units, this game is likely to come down to turnovers and execution in key moments. If Northern Arizona can control the tempo with their running game and minimize mistakes, they will have the upper hand. However, if Abilene Christian’s offense can get into rhythm early, they could prove difficult to stop.

Final Thoughts

This first-round playoff game promises to be an exciting and competitive battle. Fans of both teams will be looking forward to seeing which squad can rise to the occasion and take one step closer to the FCS Championship. Northern Arizona and Abilene Christian both have the talent to make a deep run, and this game will serve as a proving ground for both sides.

Catch all the action on ESPN+ at 2:00 AM ET on December 1, 2024.