A very intriguing, and fun, non-conference game featuring two ranked opponents is set for Saturday, September 26, 2020, when the #23 Army Black Knights (2-0) visit the #14 Cincinnati Bearcats (1-0). Both teams have gotten off to electric starts and this could be a key game in the race for the top group of five ranking in the AP Poll. This game will air live on ESPN at 3:30 p.m. EST.
Army has been electric on offense this season as the Black Knights are averaging 39.5 points per game, which is T-13th in the nation, thanks to the top rushing attack in the nation. The Black Knights are averaging 388.0 rushing yards per game and 28.5 passing yards. Army is giving up just 3.5 points per game on defense.
Cincinnati put up 55 points, 525 yards of offense, 249 passing and 276 rushing, in their only game this season. The Bearcats allowed 20 points, 353 total yards, 213 passing and 140 passing, in their season opener.
Below is my pick for the #22 Army Black Knights at #14 Cincinnati Bearcats. All odds are from BetRivers Sportsbook.
#22 Army Black Knights at #14 Cincinnati Bearcats (-11.5): O/U 46.0 (-110/-110)
Army had a bye week last week but will look to continue their early season form. Last time out, Army faced the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks and came away with a 37-7 win. The Black Knights got out to a quick 14-0 win and never looked back as they dominated the Warhawks. Army rushed for 436 yards and allowed just 200 total yards on defense. Jakobi Buchanan led the way with 106 rush yards and two touchdowns and Christian Anderson was just behind him with 95 yards and two touchdowns.
Cincinnati opened their season with a dominant 55-20 win over the Austin Peay Governors. The Bearcats led 14-3 at the end of the first quarter and were never threatened as they led 42-6 heading into the final quarter. Cincinnati was balanced on offense as two players rushed for 50+ yards and two receivers had 60+ yards. Starting quarterback Desmond Ridder threw two touchdown passes and backup Ben Bryant came on to throw one as well. It was a dominant opening performance from Cincinnati.
Series History: These two teams have played six times in the past and the series is tied at three wins a piece. They last played in 2004, a 48-29 win for Army.
Free Football Picks: I expect the Bearcats to roll, so give me Cincinnati -11.
2020 CFB Picks Results: 4-3