SMU Mustangs vs. Nevada Wolf Pack 8/24/24 – As the SMU Mustangs and Nevada Wolf Pack prepare for their first game of the 2024 NCAAF season, last year’s record results reveal much about the unevenness of stakes here. The Mustangs had an impressive 11-3 season and are therefore expected to make a flying start whereas their opponents are struggling to recover from a dismal 2-10 finish that they had experienced in the previous season. It is scheduled for Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Mackay Stadium starting from 8:00 PM ET; this match will be aired on CBSSN giving punters college football no-cost picks.
SMU Mustangs vs. Nevada Wolf Pack 8/24/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Mackay Stadium |
| TV: | CBSSN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
SMU Mustangs (11-3 Last season) vs. Nevada Wolf Pack (2-10 Last season)
Last season, the SMU Mustangs had a powerful offensive lineup especially in their passing game led by Preston Stone the quarterback. These numbers indicate that Stone’s work was supported by a team that has been highly successful in advancing up the field through the air as evidenced by 3,197 passing yards and Jaylan Knighton’s 745 rushing yards. Additionally, this dynamic offensive duo acted as a great asset for SMU because they were able to score quickly given that they topped over 300 passing yards per game in most games last year. For the upcoming matchup, monitoring their consistency will be crucial, especially in a volatile environment like the Florida State vs Georgia Tech NCAAF game.
However the Nevada Wolf Pack had a difficult time throughout the year both offensively and defensively. He struggled to complete only 55.5% of his passes for just 1,313 yards despite his effort while being overshadowed by more sacks and interceptions on average than he made. Sean Dollars’ progress was hampered further due to 527 rushing yards when he played behind an unpolished offensive line at times. The Wolf Pack’s inability to maintain offensive consistency could be their biggest hurdle, similar to the challenges faced in the Montana State and New Mexico matchup.
Preston Stone QB vs. Brendon Lewis QB
Preston Stone, with a passer rating of 161.3, comes into the season with some impressive numbers. Despite a record of 28 touchdowns against only six interceptions last year, it is evident that he is not just a quarterback who can create the big plays but also one that does so in an incredibly efficient manner. His ability to mastermind the team and manipulate defenses will largely determine how fast or slow the game goes.
On the other hand, Brendon Lewis has been tough when under duress but results were not as impressive. This was evident in his completion of 51% from last season and more sacks than scores leading to a passer rating of only one hundred percent. However, Lewis must enhance his decision-making process and improve protection to reduce turnovers resulting in more offensive opportunities.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: SMU Mustangs -20.5 -110, Total Odds: 54.5
The current betting odds reflect SMU’s dominance and Nevada’s recent struggles. With a spread of -20.5 for SMU and an over/under of 54.5, bettors might lean towards expecting a high-scoring game predominantly powered by SMU.
SMU Mustangs Betting Trends
SMU has been a formidable force, scoring over 30 points in the majority of their recent games and covering the spread in half of them. Their offensive prowess, especially in passing, makes them a solid bet, especially considering they’ve also tended to push the total over in many games.
Nevada Wolf Pack Betting Trends
Nevada’s recent form paints a bleak picture: failing to cover the spread in the majority of their games and frequently allowing high scores. Their defense, which has often let through more than 30 points, might be particularly vulnerable against an aggressive SMU offense.
SMU Mustangs vs. Nevada Wolf Pack 8/24/24 Betting Picks
SMU looks ready to kick-start their season with a big win, having analyzed how things are on the ground. The Mustangs have got a strong offense that will most likely outshine Nevada’s defense hence more people would go for them in terms of the spread bettors and those looking over on points. Also, for prop bets you may consider some individual performances from Stone and Knighton which could possibly exceed their average stats producing profitable opportunities to fantasy and sports bettors.
In conclusion, the handicapper predictions heavily favor SMU in this mismatch who would be expected to cover the spread as well as push the total points over while doing so.