Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs SMU Mustangs 10-28-23 NCAAF Week 9 Analysis, Best Picks, and Odds

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. SMU Mustangs 10/28/23 – As Week 9 unfolds, the college football landscape gets ready for yet another thrilling encounter. Set against the backdrop of Gerald J. Ford Stadium, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane with a 3-4 standing faces off against the resilient SMU Mustangs, who sit comfortably with a 5-2 record. College football picks today indicate a game that promises to be electrifying, with both teams gearing up to claim a vital victory.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. SMU Mustangs

Date & Time: Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 12:00 PM ET

Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium

TV: ESPU

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. SMU Mustangs 10/28/23 Betting Odds

TeamMoneylineSpreadTotal
Tulsa+500+19.5 (-10)58 over (-110)
SMU-1205-19.5 (-110)58 under (-110)

Tulsa Golden Hurricane Analysis

Tulsa’s offensive arsenal, led by quarterback Kerry Collins, shows a team that, when firing on all cylinders, can present significant challenges for their opposition. Collins, with his 2454 passing yards, has demonstrated not just capacity but also the tenacity required to take on formidable defenses. His 14 touchdown passes are testimony to his ability to spot and capitalize on key moments in the game. The running back, Anthony Johnson, stands out as a crucial cog in their offensive machine. Amassing 1120 rushing yards, Johnson’s capacity to pierce through defenses, combined with his consistent performance, sets him up as a key player to watch. On the receiving end, Mark Carrier, boasting 808 receiving yards from 58 receptions, has proven to be a reliable target, especially in crucial game-turning situations.

However, defensively, the Golden Hurricane seems to be caught in a tempest. Their track record indicates potential chinks in their armor, especially the 18 sacks against Collins, which expose the vulnerabilities in their offensive line. This potentially compromises their playmaking abilities, leaving Collins under constant pressure. Their upcoming match against SMU Mustangs will necessitate a fortified defense. It’s paramount for them to keep Collins protected, reduce turnovers, and ensure that their key playmakers, especially Johnson, have ample opportunities to work their magic.

SMU Mustangs Analysis

On the offensive front, SMU Mustangs have showcased a balanced and dynamic approach. Their quarterback, Preston Stone, is the epitome of tactical brilliance. Having achieved 1767 passing yards and maintaining a completion rate of 58.1%, Stone’s strategic gameplay, combined with his ability to read defenses, makes him a significant threat. Complementing Stone is Jaylan Knighton, the team’s running back. Averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per rush attempt, Knighton’s agility and vision on the field act as a double-edged sword against adversaries. Meanwhile, wide receiver Jake Bailey, even without a touchdown to his name, is an essential asset. Drawing defensive attention, Bailey’s presence often opens up opportunities for other offensive players, making the Mustangs’ offense multi-dimensional.

However, defense is where SMU truly shines, especially when playing on their home turf. Their unblemished 5-0 SU record at home echoes their fortress-like defense at the Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Their primary challenge against the Golden Hurricane will be to neutralize the dual threat of Collins and Johnson. Strategically, they’ll need to pressure Collins, forcing him into making errors, while simultaneously ensuring that Johnson is contained and doesn’t get the space he often thrives in. By focusing on these key areas, the Mustangs can potentially disrupt Tulsa’s offensive rhythm and capitalize on any missteps.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. SMU Mustangs Against the Spread

Tulsa has showcased some impressive trends, particularly against Southern Methodist. Their 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against SMU and a 6-3 SU in their last 9 games against the same opponent demonstrate their mettle. Furthermore, their penchant for outdoing spread expectations on the road against SMU, reflected by a 5-1 ATS, provides optimism for Hurricane fans.

SMU, however, has been dominant in their recent outings, especially at home with a 5-0 SU record. They’ve also shown supremacy against opponents in the American Athletic Conference, recording 6-1 SU. However, a concerning 1-5 ATS against Tulsa at home suggests a potential vulnerability that bettors should consider.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. SMU Mustangs Free Pick

Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:

Moneyline: SMU -1205

With the SMU Mustangs’ dominant home record and better overall performance this season, SMU appears the safer bet.

Spread: Tulsa +19.5 (-10)

Given Tulsa’s strong trend of covering spreads against SMU, particularly on the road, they might be able to keep it closer than the wide spread suggests.

Total: 58 under (-110)

Considering the trends of both teams, the total points scored might not surpass the 58-point mark.

Predicted Score: SMU Mustangs 31, Tulsa Golden Hurricane 17

In conclusion, while SMU appears to have the edge in this contest, the Golden Hurricane’s record against the spread versus the Mustangs cannot be ignored. For those diving into the Canadian online sportsbook, the spread and total offer intriguing opportunities.