SMU Mustangs (6-2) vs. Rice Owls (4-4)
SMU Mustangs vs. Rice Owls 11/4/23 – As the crisp autumn air settles over the collegiate gridirons, the SMU Mustangs, boasting a commendable 6-2 record, are set to confront the Rice Owls, who stand at an even 4-4, in a Week 10 clash that’s ripe with potential. With both teams eyeing critical wins to enhance their bowl resumes, this NCAAF prediction for the Saturday, November 4, 2023 showdown, carries a weight of anticipation.
The Mustangs’ success can be attributed to their effective offensive strategy and robust playmaking. A key player has been quarterback Preston Stone; his 2138 passing yards, 19 touchdowns against 5 interceptions is testament to his talent at leading their offense. Jaylan Knighton has been an effective force on the ground averaging 5.5 yards per carry while contributing 4 touchdowns for balance to their attack. Wide receiver Jordan Kerley stands out with 17.7 reception yards per catch average and two touchdown receptions; making himself indispensable as an asset in stretching defenses and creating explosive plays for Stone and stretching defenses with his great talent at leading his offense.
Rice Owls’ performances have been an amalgam of gritty performances and missed opportunities. Quarterback JT Daniels has been at the heart of their offense with 2362 passing yards and 19 touchdowns to his name; his completion percentage of 63.6 and passer rating of 155.2 demonstrate his efficiency and command in the pocket. Running back Dean Connors has made most of his attempts averaging an impressive 5.8 yards per attempt while Luke McCaffrey stands out among wide receivers as his key target, changing games with speed and catching ability.
SMU Mustangs vs. Rice Owls 11/4/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Rice Stadium |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Preston Stone QB vs. JT Daniels QB
SMU Mustangs’ quarterback Preston Stone has been a lynchpin in their offensive machinery, combining a 59.4 completion percentage with a remarkable 8.4 yards per pass attempt, which can be attributed to his incisive play-calling and adept field vision. On the turf, Jaylan Knighton has been the linchpin of the running game, averaging 5.5 yards per rush. Jordan Kerley, with his 319 receiving yards, has been Stone’s go-to target, proving himself to be a crucial cog in SMU’s offensive wheel with his ability to stretch the field.
On the opposing end, Rice’s JT Daniels brings an impressive 63.6 completion percentage and an 8.7-yard average per attempt into this matchup. His ability to maintain composure and execute under pressure will be critical against SMU’s defense. Dean Connors is the backfield’s force, averaging 5.8 yards per carry, which is a testament to his explosive running ability. Wide receiver Luke McCaffrey has been nothing short of a revelation, amassing 692 receiving yards at a stellar 16.9 yards per catch, indicating his big-play capability.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: SMU Mustangs -450, Total Odds: 59
The Mustangs enter this contest as distinct favorites, with a -12 point spread suggesting confidence among bookmakers in their ability to control the game. The over/under total of 59 points forecasts a high-scoring affair, potentially fueled by the offensive capabilities of both teams.
SMU Mustangs Betting Trends
SMU has covered the spread in 4 of their last 6 games, hinting at a performance often exceeding expectations. Despite their positive straight-up record in recent games (5-1 SU in their last 6), they’ve notably struggled against Rice, failing to cover in their last 7 meetings. The Mustangs will need to defy these Premium team trends to secure a win and cover on the road, where they’ve also been 0-7 ATS in their last 7 visits to Rice.
Rice Owls Betting Trends
Rice has outperformed the spread in 6 of their last 8 games, a streak of competitiveness that’s reflected in their 6-2 ATS record. Additionally, their penchant for high-scoring home games is indicated by the total going OVER in 11 of their last 13 home games. The Owls’ 7-0 ATS streak when hosting the Mustangs is a premium trend that they will look to continue.
SMU Mustangs vs. Rice Owls 11/4/23 Betting Picks
Evaluating the premium team trends and statistics, this contest shapes up to be closer than the odds suggest. The Mustangs possess the firepower to potentially secure the victory, but Rice’s historical ATS trend against SMU cannot be ignored, especially when considering their robust performance at home. The decision-making of both quarterbacks under duress and the execution of Rice’s home-field advantage will be critical factors.
Delving into the depth of both rosters and the strategic implications, it appears SMU’s offensive diversity might just overcome Rice’s resilience at home. However, given the Owls’ trends, particularly their success against the spread when facing the Mustangs at home, they are poised to make this a competitive game.
Free Pick and Prediction: SMU Mustangs 31, Rice Owls 21