Get ready for a Friday night AAC showdown as the Temple Owls host the SMU Mustangs on Friday, October 20. This game is not just another match on the college football calendar, but a crucial contest that could shape the fortunes of both teams this season. Let’s run through our Temple vs. SMU predictions, odds, and picks below.
Temple vs. SMU Odds
- Spread: SMU -21
- Total: 54.5
As we approach the game, the betting odds are leaning heavily in favor of the SMU Mustangs. The Mustangs are currently favored by 21 points, indicating a strong belief in their ability to secure a decisive victory. This is a significant spread, especially considering that the game is being played at Temple’s home field, Lincoln Financial Field.
The over/under for the game is set at 54.5 points. This suggests that the oddsmakers are expecting a relatively high-scoring affair, which aligns with the offensive prowess that SMU has displayed throughout the season.
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Can Temple Get Its First Conference Win?
The Temple Owls have had a challenging season so far, with a 2-5 overall record and a 0-3 record in the American Athletic Conference. Their struggles have been particularly pronounced in recent weeks, as they are currently on a four-game losing streak. Their most recent defeat was a 45-14 loss to North Texas, a game in which their offense was largely ineffective, passing for just 105 yards, their lowest since November 2021.
On the defensive side of the ball, Temple has had its share of difficulties as well. The Owls are currently ranked 123rd in the nation in points allowed per game, giving up an average of 35.6 points. This could be a significant problem against an SMU offense that averages 32.3 points per game.
Will SMU Keep Its Momentum?
The SMU Mustangs have had a strong season so far, boasting a 4-2 overall record and a 2-0 record in the American Athletic Conference. They are currently on a two-game winning streak, with their most recent victory being a 31-10 win over East Carolina. This victory showcased the Mustangs’ defensive prowess, as they held East Carolina to just 10 points and 311.3 total yards, placing them among the top 20 teams in the nation in terms of defensive performance.
The Mustangs’ offense, led by sophomore quarterback Preston Stone, has also been impressive. Stone has thrown for 1,467 yards, 14 touchdowns, and five interceptions this season, demonstrating his ability to effectively lead the team’s offense.
Temple vs. SMU Predictions
After a thorough analysis of both teams’ performances, the betting odds, and the potential impact of external factors such as weather and home-field advantage, the best pick for this game is Temple +21. This means that even if Temple loses the game, as long as they do not lose by more than 21 points, this bet would be a winner.
There are several reasons to support this pick. Firstly, Temple’s home-field advantage could play a significant role in this game. Playing at Lincoln Financial Field, in front of their home crowd, could provide the Owls with the boost they need to keep the game competitive.
Secondly, the weather forecast for the game includes wind and rain, which could potentially disrupt SMU’s passing game. This could level the playing field somewhat and allow Temple to keep the game closer than the 21-point spread suggests.
Finally, while SMU has been impressive this season, they have shown some vulnerabilities, particularly in their special teams, which have allowed three blocked kicks this season. If Temple can exploit these weaknesses, they could keep the game closer than expected.
Where to bet: Temple +21 | -110 at Bet 365
More College Football Predictions & Props
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