Xbox Bowl: Missouri State Bears vs Arkansas State Red Wolves Betting Pick & Prediction for 12/18

The 2025 Xbox Bowl features the Missouri State Bears taking on the Arkansas State Red Wolves. The game is set to take place at the Ford Center At The Star in Frisco, TX, under the dome. Fans can catch the action on Thursday, December 18, at 9:00 PM, with the game airing on ESPN2.

Missouri State comes into this game with a 7-5 record, performing well on the road with a 4-2 record. Arkansas State, the home team, holds a 6-6 record for the season. Both teams ended their conference games with a 5-3 record, setting the stage for a competitive postseason showdown. The odds show Missouri State as slight favorites, with a moneyline of -124 and a spread of -2.5.

Missouri State Team Preview

The Missouri State Bears have had a mixed season so far. They have a record of two wins and three losses in their last five games. Their most recent game was a 42-30 loss to the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at home.

Offensively, the Bears have been strong in the passing game. They rank 24th in passing yards this season with a total of 3,287 yards. Jacob Clark has been a standout quarterback, ranking 1st on the team with 2,895 passing yards and 24 touchdowns.

The Bears’ defense has faced challenges, ranking 122nd in points against with 340 points allowed. They have been effective in creating turnovers, with eight interceptions and eight fumbles recovered. Injuries could affect their defense, as several players are questionable or out due to injuries.

Xbox Bowl: Missouri State vs Arkansas State Game Day Info

• Sport: NCAA Football
• Teams: Missouri State Bears vs. Arkansas State Red Wolves
• Venue: Ford Center At The Star in Frisco, TX
• Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025
• Betting Odds: Missouri State -124, Arkansas State +103

Arkansas State Team Preview

Arkansas State Red Wolves have shown mixed results in their recent games. They secured a close win against Appalachian State with a score of 30-29, showing their ability to perform under pressure. However, they faced losses at home against Louisiana-Lafayette and Southern Miss, highlighting inconsistencies in their performance.

The Red Wolves’ offense ranks 72nd in points for, with 293 points this season. Their passing game is strong, ranking 39th with 3,089 yards. On the ground, they have room for improvement, ranking 91st with 1,608 rushing yards.

Defense has been a challenge for Arkansas State, allowing 328 points, which ranks them 116th. Despite this, they excel in creating turnovers, with their interceptions and fumbles recovered both ranking in the top 10. Injuries could impact their upcoming games, with several players listed as questionable.

BTB Betting Pick

The spread for the game is Missouri State -2.5. With Missouri State’s passing attack ranked 24th and Arkansas State’s defense allowing 328 points this season, Missouri State is likely to cover the spread. The projected score is Missouri State 31, Arkansas State 28.

The total for the game is set at 56.5. Both teams have allowed over 300 points this season, indicating defensive challenges. The projected total score is 59, so taking the over is the recommendation.