Southern Illinois Salukis vs. BYU Cougars 8/31/24 – As the opening week of NCAAF is fast approaching, the fans are ready to watch the Southern Illinois Salukis and BYU Cougars, which will be quite an action-packed match. This encounter is more than a mere game: it is a test of body and wits that is very important in determining where the teams are about the rest of the season. Both avid supporters of the sport and those who wager would be lucky to be provided with college football free picks regarding the game’s dynamics and the teams’ forms.
Southern Illinois Salukis vs. BYU Cougars 8/31/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | LaVell Edwards Stadium |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Southern Illinois Salukis (8-5 Last Season) vs. BYU Cougars (5-7 Last Season)
The Southern Illinois Salukis end the last season on a high note having proved themselves on the road boasting of a 6-1 ATS away record on their last 7 matches. One of the things that have been working for them is the good play of Jaelin Benefield who was not scoring any last season but averaged 3 yards per rush. Vinson Davis III was a responsible receiver as well getting 659 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Their ability to execute in critical moments will be vital, especially considering the Chattanooga vs Tennessee encounter, which showcases similar dynamics of underdog resilience.
On the other hand, the BYU Cougars swas not performing well in the previous season, however, managed to have a positive home streak of 15 wins out of 20 games losing at LaVell Edwards Stadium. BYU will have a good offensive plan due to some critical players such as LJ Martin whose rushing skills were 4.8 yards per carry last season. Chase Roberts’ receiving skills will also be crucial, especially considering the comparisons drawn with the Portland State and Washington State matchup, where strategic receiving plays could turn the tide.
Hunter Simmons QB vs. Jake Retzlaff QB
Hunter Simmons, the starting quarterback at Salukis, has been impressive with a passer rating of 95.7%. The only thing that he would struggle against would be consistency; we are not talking about the routine Scalpers’ playing against teams like BYU, who will make you pay for every mistake. Simmons’ efficiency when passing the ball against a tight defense will be essential in burning the BYU defense since Simmons connects at 4.8 yards per a pass attempt.
Jake Retzlaff for BYU, will still manage a decent 97.1 passer rating after a torrid season. He has had a rocky road but his experience would come in handy especially his strong arm, having completed 50 yards for his longest pass last season. Retzlaff, settling under fire and allowing unselfishness to come in, will determine heavily – towards the ceiling – how offense will be for BYU.
As these two quarterbacks go head on, the outcome of the game may very much depend on how each of them performs. Both showed striking moments, but also they showed each weakness. The quarterbacking certainly will be at the center stage where all the action is needed as all parties concerned have to use their advantages as well as the weaknesses of their opponents.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: BYU Cougars -14, Total Odds: 49.5
The current betting landscape sees BYU favored significantly with a -14 point spread and a total of 49.5, reflecting expectations of a relatively high-scoring game. These odds suggest confidence in BYU’s ability to cover the spread at home, despite their recent overall struggles.
Southern Illinois Salukis Betting Trends
Southern Illinois has been a strong contender ATS, especially notable in their performance on the road and in Saturday games. Their ability to beat the odds in previous encounters will play into the betting strategies for many, considering their 5-0 ATS record in their last five games.
BYU Cougars Betting Trends
BYU’s recent performance has seen a trend of games going UNDER the total points, with 16 of their last 19 Week 1 games falling below the line. Their home game strength could be a determining factor in whether they can reverse their recent poor SU record.
Southern Illinois Salukis vs. BYU Cougars 8/31/24 Betting Picks
Considering BYU’s good home performance and Southern Illinois’ ability to cope away from home, this game is a tough shout. With good ATS stats behind them, the Salukis have beaten the line comfortably making betting on them with a +14 spread good value. Yet, there are some risk factors like going back to the comforts of BYU and pressure on the main players.
For now, regarding the spread, the game should finish with BYU winning by at least two touchdowns. However, with Southern Illinois being strong ATS team, it might be a good favor to cover these spreads rather than the other way around. Turning to over/under wagers and holding the trends of both teams, UNDER might be the safer way forward. Let’s be careful regarding betting, especially considering the handicapping expert tips that have been provided.