Houston Cougars (3-5) vs. Baylor Bears (3-5)
Houston Cougars vs. Baylor Bears 11/4/23 – As we enter week 10 of college football season, Houston Cougars take on Baylor Bears in what will likely be a pivotal matchup despite both sitting with identical 3-5 records. Set for Saturday at McLane Stadium, these encounters could prove crucial for each postseason run-in as both have struggled to find consistency throughout this campaign. Premium picks and parlays may reveal distinct narratives for these teams regardless of having equal records despite being competitive opponents.
The Houston Cougars’ journey has been challenging, going 2-5 SU in their last 7 games. However, it’s important to recognize key players like Parker Jenkins at running back and Samuel Brown at wide receiver. Jenkins has been an instrumental part of their ground game racking up 321 yards on 3 touchdowns on average per rush attempt at an average rate of 4.7 yards per attempt; Samuel Brown has proven himself at wide receiver with 45 receptions totalling 678 yards for an 15.1 average yards per reception average – making him a potential threat against Baylor defenses!
Baylor Bears standouts despite a subpar 2-7-1 ATS record are running back Dominic Richardson with 288 rushing yards, showing an aggressive running style which the Cougars must account for, while Monaray Baldwin at wide receiver has made his presence felt with 568 receiving yards and an outstanding 19 yards per reception average which showcases his explosive playmaking skills – two key figures who could potentially tilt this game toward Baylor when given home-field advantage.
Houston Cougars vs. Baylor Bears 11/4/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET |
| Where: | McLane Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Donovan Smith QB vs. Blake Shapen QB
Houston’s quarterback Donovan Smith has been a significant contributor to his team’s offense with 2067 passing yards and a commendable 138.7 passer rating. Despite suffering 19 sacks, his resilience and ability to maintain a 64.8 completion percentage are testament to his talents. His 16 passing touchdowns against 5 interceptions suggest that Smith can be lethal when given time, but it’s his ability to navigate Baylor’s defensive pressure that will be under scrutiny.
Blake Shapen, Baylor’s signal-caller, has shown flashes of brilliance this season, with a solid 136.9 passer rating and a cautious game with only 1 interception to his name. Although sacked 17 times, Shapen’s performance under pressure will be pivotal. With a slightly better average of 7.9 yards per pass attempt than Smith, if Shapen can find his rhythm early, he could very well outduel his counterpart in this matchup.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Baylor Bears Moneyline -175, Total Odds: 58
The betting odds are leaning towards the Baylor Bears as the favorites, despite the home advantage not translating to wins recently. The -175 moneyline reflects the confidence in Baylor to capitalize on their matchup advantages. The total odds are set at 58, suggesting that oddsmakers anticipate a relatively low-scoring affair, aligning with the trends where both teams have seen the total go under in several of their recent games.
Houston Cougars Betting Trends
Houston’s betting trends are a mixed bag. While they have been unsuccessful against Big 12 opponents, going 1-10 SU, the total going OVER in 9 of their last 11 road games could entice over bettors. Their ATS record in recent games, however, indicates struggles to cover the spread, which could raise concerns among bettors eyeing Houston with the +3.5 spread.
Baylor Bears Betting Trends
Baylor has not been rewarding bettors either, especially at home with a 1-7 SU record in their last 8 home games. Their inability to consistently cover the spread is a worrying trend. However, their undefeated streak against American Athletic Conference teams could provide a glimmer of hope for those leaning towards the Bears.
Houston Cougars vs. Baylor Bears 11/4/23 Betting Picks
Given the trends and key player performances, this game appears poised for a close finish. The Cougars’ offense has potential with Smith at the helm, but Jenkins and Brown will need to find gaps in Baylor’s defense. Baylor, with the edge of Shapen’s cautious but effective passing game, may just exploit Houston’s defensive woes.
Considering the competitive nature of this game and the inconsistencies both teams have shown, the pick here leans towards the UNDER on the total, as both teams could tighten up defensively in a crucial game. The Baylor Bears, with the slight edge at home and historical performance against AAC teams, are also the recommended pick to cover the spread.
Best NCAAF free predictions hint at a game that will be decided by quarterback play and key defensive stops. Expect a tight, competitive game with the Bears narrowly securing the win.
Free Pick and Prediction: Baylor Bears 28, Houston Cougars 24