Temple Owls (3-7) vs. UAB Blazers (3-7)
Temple Owls vs. UAB Blazers 11/18/23 – In a pivotal Week 12 NCAAF matchup, the Temple Owls and UAB Blazers, both holding 3-7 records, prepare to face off this Saturday. As fans and analysts eagerly anticipate this game, we delve into the essential information and NCAAF game predictions today. The stage is set at Protective Stadium, with a kickoff at 3:00 PM ET, promising a showdown that could potentially tip the scales for either team’s season trajectory.
Temple Owls, despite their difficult season, have shown moments of brilliance this year thanks largely to Joquez Smith at running back and Amad Anderson Jr. at wide receiver. Smith averages an impressive 4.6 yards per rush attempt while Anderson Jr. brings 15.9 average reception yards each reception to help provide depth and versatility to Temple’s offensive strategies.
UAB Blazers, with an identical win-loss record to that of Temple Owls, should not be underestimated. Quarterback Jacob Zeno has maintained an outstanding 74.8% completion rate while Jermaine Brown Jr has scored nine rushing touchdowns – both playing key roles in keeping UAB competitive during games. Tejhaun Palmer, an average 17.2 yard reception player has also proven crucial to their success.
Temple Owls vs. UAB Blazers 11/18/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Protective Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
E.J. Warner QB vs. Jacob Zeno QB
E.J. Warner has had an uneven season as quarterback of the Temple Owls. Completing only 204 out of 351 attempts for 2423 passing yards at an overall completion percentage of 58.1% and 128.3 passer rating indicates his potential yet room for growth. With 19 touchdown passes against 10 interceptions so far this season and 19 passing touchdowns against 10 interceptions scored so far, his style of play characterized by both aggression and caution will prove pivotal in taking on Blazers defense successfully.
Jacob Zeno brings an exciting element to the field as the Blazers quarterback. With an outstanding 74.8% completion rate and 2595 passing yards under his belt, as well as 17 touchdowns to 9 interceptions ratio and 153.6 passer rating rating under pressure, Zeno proves himself adept at leading his team successfully under pressure. Furthermore, his tactical acumen and decision-making skills will be instrumental in exploiting Owls defensive weaknesses.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: UAB Blazers -280, Total Odds: 64.5
The betting odds lean towards the UAB Blazers as favorites, with a -280 moneyline and a -7.5 point spread. The total over/under is set at 64.5, indicating expectations of a high-scoring affair.
Temple Owls Betting Trends
The Temple Owls have struggled against the spread, going 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games, signaling inconsistency in performance. The trend of games going over the total in 5 of their last 7 encounters suggests a defense that often concedes points, a factor that bettors should consider. Their track record of 1-6 SU in the last 7 games and a concerning 0-10 SU in their last 10 road games further underscore their challenges in maintaining form, especially in away settings.
UAB Blazers Betting Trends
The UAB Blazers, with a 6-12 ATS in their last 18 games, also show signs of unpredictability. However, their tendency to be part of high-scoring games, as indicated by the total going over in 10 of their last 15 games, could play to their advantage against the Owls. The Blazers’ home performance, with the total going over in 6 of their last 7 games at home, suggests a propensity to engage in offensive shootouts on familiar turf.
Temple Owls vs. UAB Blazers 11/18/23 Betting Picks
Given the trends and performance metrics, this matchup poses an intriguing challenge for bettors. The Blazers, with their slightly more consistent performance and home-field advantage, seem to be the safer bet. However, the Owls’ potential for surprise performances, especially from key players like Warner and Smith, should not be underestimated.
In terms of expert predictions, considering the over on the total points might be prudent, given both teams’ propensity to be involved in high-scoring games. The Blazers, despite their less than stellar ATS record, could cover the -7.5 spread, primarily due to their offensive prowess and the Owls’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Free Pick and Prediction: UAB Blazers 38, Temple Owls 27