Independence Bowl 2012: Ohio vs. Louisiana-Monroe odds and lines

Slowed considerably in conference play after starting the year off at 7-0, the Ohio Bobcats will try to close their 2012 campaign out on a high note on Thursday against Louisiana-Monroe in the Independence Bowl.

Both schools enter their postseason fresh off eight-win seasons, although it is the Warhawks who still hold a significant advantage on paper according to oddsmakers. Along with an opening moneyline of +245 for Ohio and a startling -295 for Louisiana-Monroe, the Warhawks are currently favored to win by more than one full touchdown over Frank Solich's Bobcats.

Louisiana-Monroe brings a stellar 8-4 mark against the spread that mirrors its record, while the Bobcats have only been able to muster four wins in 12 games this season with the spread factored in. Interestingly enough, only one underdog in the last nine years has been able to earn a win on the Independence Bowl's turf, and the Warhawks will hope to become the seventh straight favorite to cruise to victory.

Moneyline: Ohio +240

Over/Under: 61 points

Spread: Ohio +7.5