A big time American Athletic Conference showdown in set for Saturday, October 24, 2020, when the #9 Cincinnati Bearcats (3-0, 1-0) visit the #16 SMU Mustangs (5-0, 2-0). Cincinnati has been dealing with some COVID issues and SMU is dealing with injuries to star players. This game will air live on ESPN2 at 9:00 p.m. EST.
Cincinnati has been great on both sides of the ball as the offense is averaging 35.7 points per game and 396.0 yards per game, 218.0 through the air and 178.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Bearcats are allowing just 12.3 points and 306.7 yards, 171.7 passing and 135.0 rushing.
The SMU Mustangs offense is rolling as they are averaging 42.6 points per game and 563.2 yards per game, 359.2 through the air and 204.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Mustangs defense is allowing 25.4 points and 407.4 yards, 237.0 passing and 170.4 rushing.
Below is my pick for the #9 Cincinnati Bearcats at #16 SMU Mustangs. All odds are from BetRivers Sportsbook.
[metabet_core_odds_compare query=”ncaaf/bearcats” size=”300×250″ site_id=”atsio” css=”float:right; margin-left:10px”]#9 Cincinnati Bearcats (-1.5) at #16 SMU Mustangs: O/U 56.5 (-115/-106)
Cincinnati has not played since October 3rd when the Bearcats came away with a 28-7 home win over the South Florida Bulls. The Bearcats scored the first 21 points of the game, and dominated offensively, in the easy victory. Running back Gerrid Doaks rushed the ball 22 times for 102 yards and one touchdown on the night. Quarterback Desmond Ridder had a poor game as he went 16/26 for 143 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. The Bearcats defense held the South Florida offense to 291 total yards and forced five turnovers on the night.
SMU played their first game since losing one of the top receivers in the nation, and one of their top running backs, and squeaked away with a 37-34 overtime win at Tulane. This game was back and forth all night as there were four ties and nine lead changes. Quarterback Shane Buechele went 23/37 for 384 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions., Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Danny Gray went off as Rice hauled in seven balls for 139 yards and one touchdown, while Gray had five catches for 133 yards and a touchdown.
Series History: Cincinnati won the last meeting, back in 2018, and now leads the all-time series 3-1.
Football Picks: The injuries for SMU catch up on this one. Give me Cincinnati -1.5 on the road.
2020 CFB Picks Results: 18-10