DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
Ohio defeated Gardner-Webb 52–35 to secure a comfortable win. Gardner-Webb covered by 13.5; Game went Over by 31.5. The market closed at Ohio -30.5 and the Blue Chip model made it Ohio -23.4 - a gap of 7.1 points toward Gardner-Webb, of which 6.1 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
Gardner-Webb built a 14-3 lead in the first quarter, showing offensive capability, but allowed Ohio to score 28 unanswered points in the second quarter, ultimately losing control of the game.
Quarterback Nate Hampton threw for 289 yards and two touchdowns, including a 68-yard scoring pass to Quasean Holmes, indicating a potent passing game that can produce big plays.
The defense allowed Ohio to rush for three touchdowns each by Sieh Bangura and Duncan Brune, totaling 123 yards from Bangura alone, highlighting a vulnerability in stopping the run.
Quasean Holmes had 11 receptions for 47 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his reliability as a target in the passing game, though his yards per catch were low.
Hampton threw one interception, contributing to a turnover that may have shifted momentum, while Ohio did not commit any turnovers, emphasizing the need for better ball security.
At kickoff, conditions at Peden Stadium were Thundery outbreaks possible, 80°F, heat index 82°F with winds of 2 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Thundery outbreaks possible
80°F
| Measure | Gardner-WebbAway | OhioHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 282 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Bye week | 135 miles |
| Season total | 653 miles | 963 miles |
| Body clock | 15:30 | 15:30 |
| Rest | 7 days | 7 days |
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