Texas State Bobcats vs. UTSA Roadrunners 9/9/23 – On September 9, 2023, at 3:30 PM ET, Texas State Bobcats (1-0) will face off against UTSA Roadrunners (0-1) in an eagerly-anticipated match at Alamodome Stadium in San Antonio and broadcast on ESP+. Starting quarterbacks for each side are TJ Finley for Texas State and Frank Harris for UTSA, respectively; this article seeks to provide a thorough breakdown of each team and offer free NCAAF picks.
Texas State Bobcats vs. UTSA Roadrunners
Date & Time: Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET
Location: Alamodome
TV: ESP+
Texas State Bobcats vs. UTSA Roadrunners 9/9/23 Betting Odds
| Moneyline | Spread | Total | |
| Texas State | +370 | +13 (-110) | 66.5 over (-103) |
| UTSA | -460 | -13 (-110) | 66.5 under (-117) |
Texas State Bobcats Analysis
TJ Finley has had a promising start, with an impressive 298 passing yards in his first game. His accuracy, boasting a 73.3% completion rate, is noteworthy. With an average of 9.9 yards per attempt and a longest throw of 31 yards, Finley shows an ability to move the ball effectively. Three touchdowns and no interceptions speak volumes about his game management. He’s been sacked only once, suggesting a strong offensive line, and boasts an outstanding passer rating of 189.8.
Ismail Mahdi has been the star in the backfield for Texas State, with an astronomical average of 13.8 yards per carry. He also has a long run of 65 yards to his credit, signaling a breakaway threat that defenses have to respect. With one rushing touchdown already, Mahdi provides a potent balance to Finley’s aerial threat.
Joey Hobert, with his six receptions totaling 105 yards, offers a consistent target for Finley. Averaging 17.5 yards per catch, Hobert provides big-play capability for the Bobcats. His longest reception is 31 yards, and he has already found the end zone once this season.
UTSA Roadrunners Analysis
Frank Harris has shown some vulnerability, especially when compared to Finley. With a 50% completion rate, 209 passing yards, and a passer rating of just 91.3, there’s room for improvement. Additionally, his three interceptions indicate decision-making issues, and he’s been sacked once for a loss of 6 yards.
Barnes offers some hope for UTSA. With 103 rushing yards and an average of 6.4 yards per carry, he’s proven that he can make a difference on the ground. His longest rush is 44 yards, and he has found the end zone once, making him a crucial part of UTSA’s offensive strategy.
Cephus has been the most reliable weapon for Harris, recording 123 receiving yards on nine catches. Averaging 13.7 yards per reception, he can keep the chains moving for UTSA. He also has one touchdown to his credit, proving his red-zone effectiveness.
Texas State Bobcats vs. UTSA Roadrunners Against the Spread
Texas State has struggled recently, with a 2-4 record against the spread (ATS) in their last 6 games and 2-5 straight up (SU) in their last 7. However, the total has gone OVER in 4 of their last 5 games, suggesting they’re capable of high-scoring affairs. UTSA, on the other hand, has been strong, especially at home where they are 6-0 SU in their last six games. They have also been decent ATS against Sun Belt opponents, going 4-2 in their last 6.
Texas State Bobcats vs. UTSA Roadrunners Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, and key players, here are our recommended picks:
Moneyline: UTSA -460
UTSA at -460 seems the safer bet, considering their home advantage and previous records.
Spread: UTSA -13 (-110)
Given the inconsistencies in the Texas State defense and UTSA’s home strength, we’d take UTSA at -13.
Total: 66.5 over (-103)
Both teams have shown capability to contribute to high scores. Taking the total at 66.5, we’d go with the OVER.
Prediction: 28-42 UTSA Roadrunners win
For those looking to take action through a Canadian sportsbook, this game offers plenty of enticing options. UTSA seems poised to capitalize on their home advantage, but the explosive Texas State offense led by TJ Finley cannot be discounted. It promises to be an engaging contest with opportunities for both safe and risky bets.
