COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Miami (OH) enters with an 0-1 record after scoring 14 points and allowing 59 in its first game, so the RedHawks have already been tested by a stronger opponent and still showed enough offense to stay functional. Their season stats show 289 total yards, 262 passing yards, and only 27 rushing yards in that opener, which suggests the passing game is carrying the load early. Holy Cross, meanwhile, is 0-2 and has been unable to get much going offensively, averaging 10 points per game while giving up 35 per game. From a broader form view, Miami (OH) finished last season with multiple wins over weaker MAC opponents and several games where the offense reached the mid-20s or higher, while Holy Cross has given up 35 points in both of its first two games this year. The combination of Miami’s home setting, Holy Cross’s slow start, and the RedHawks’ ability to create enough offense through the air gives the favorite a strong chance to pull away if it gets an early lead.
Miami (OH) should control this game from the start and turn its home field into a decisive edge. Holy Cross has been outscored 70-20 across two games, while Miami already showed a workable passing attack and enough overall firepower to separate from a lighter opponent. The best call is Miami (OH) RedHawks -31.5, with a projected final score of Miami (OH) 45, Holy Cross 10.