At both Lafayette and Bucknell, during the info sessions part of the pitch was there were more chances to research because you’re not competing with Grad students. IMO, from our experience and as we get close to the college selection process again, I would encourage going to the larger university over the LAC. The only caveat is that participating in research was such a fantastic experience.
Our Junior is at a very highly regarded mid-size, and from our experience so far, it has provided everything that the LAC had and beyond, except the chance to do research.