SMU Mustangs (10-2) vs. Tulane Green Wave (11-1)
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave 12/2/23 – The SMU Mustangs ride hot streaks into Saturday’s matchup between ranked teams. The Mustangs boast an explosive offense averaging 40 points per game behind quarterback Preston Stone. However, they face a stiff test against a Tulane defense allowing under 20 points per contest in front of an intimidating home crowd in New Orleans. This Saturday evening Zero-Charge NCAAF Insights point to a tight contest between these top-25 teams.
Led by dynamic quarterback Preston Stone, the Mustangs boast an explosive offense averaging over 40 points per game. However, they face a stiff test against a Tulane defense allowing under 20 points per contest.
Meanwhile, Tulane fields a balanced offensive attack behind quarterback Michael Pratt and running back Tyjae Spears. Their multifaceted offense meshes well with a stingy defense for the Green Wave. Homefield advantage further aids Tulane, winners of 5 straight in New Orleans.
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Benson Field at Yulman Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
Preston Stone QB vs. Michael Pratt QB
Preston Stone pilots the prolific SMU aerial assault with over 3100 passing yards and 28 touchdowns. Completing 60% of attempts, the sophomore signal-caller unleashes big plays downfield averaging 9.3 yards per attempt. With the arm talent to zip throws into tight windows, Stone thrives pushing the ball vertically to speedy receivers like RJ Maryland. Though prone to an occasional turnover when trying to do too much, Stone’s poise and precision generally fuel the Mustang attack. His quick release and field vision also aid him maneuvering the pocket and evading pressure. Overall, Stone’s aggressive gunslinger mentality spearheads the nation’s 7th ranked passing offense.
Meanwhile, Michael Pratt helms the versatile Tulane offense with efficiency, distributing the ball evenly to his playmakers with a 66% completion rate. While less inclined to air it out than his counterpart, Pratt protects the football with a stellar 4:1 TD to turnover ratio. His dual-threat ability adds another dimension for the Green Wave offense; when plays break down, Pratt has the speed and awareness to scramble for key first downs. Excels at selling play action and bootlegs thanks to Tulane’s ground game, Pratt averages nearly 9 yards per pass attempt despite lacking elite arm strength. His quick decisions and accuracy place teammates in positions to churn out yards after catch. Though he lacks jaw-dropping production, Pratt’s careful handling of the offense perfectly complements their stout defense. His avoidance of turnovers and big mistakes gives Tulane a chance to win tight contests.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Tulane Green Wave -175, Total Odds: 48
The oddsmakers favor undefeated at home Tulane by a slim 4-point margin, a nod to their staunch defense on familiar turf. However, the high projected point total signals confidence in both attacks. Given the teams’ contrasting styles, this line appears an appropriate assessment.
SMU Mustangs Betting Trends
SMU enters play 5-2 against the spread (ATS) in recent outings, often surpassing betting expectations by wide margins. The over cashed in 5 of the Mustangs’ past 6 contests amid scoring barrages from Preston Stone and company. SMU also won 7 of their last 8 visits to Tulane, displaying an affinity for the Big Easy.
Tulane Green Wave Betting Trends
Meanwhile, Tulane posted a less reliable 3-6 ATS record in spite of their sterling won-loss ledger. Unders proved more probable for the Green Wave with lower-scoring defensive battles the norm at Yulman Stadium. Yet against the Mustangs specifically, overs occurred in 8 of the past 10 clashes. Tulane also protects home turf well, prevailing in 5 straight there.
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave 12/2/23 Betting Picks
This Saturday showdown presents a riveting contrast in styles sure to entertain viewers and confound handicappers. The trends point toward SMU in a high-scoring shootout, while Tulane’s home dominance suggests a tighter affair. In the end, we predict Tulane’s defense curtails the Mustangs just enough for a 31-27 Green Wave triumph at home. Premium expert game predictions give the slight nod to Tulane against the spread as well in a contest clearing the projected point total.
Free Pick and Prediction: Tulane Green Wave 31, SMU Mustangs 27