SMU Mustangs vs
Nevada WolfpackPredictions & Preview

SMU Opens as Betting Favorite Against Nevada in College Football Matchup at Mackay Stadium

In the upcoming college football matchup, SMU, the reigning American Athletic Conference champions, will face off against Nevada, who is looking to rebound from a disappointing previous season. The game is set to take place at Mackay Stadium in Reno with a kickoff time of 8:00 EST. SMU opens as the betting favorite with a spread of -25.5, but the current line has shifted to SMU -24.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Mustangs -2500 | Wolfpack +1241
• Spread: Mustangs -24.5 (-110) | Wolfpack +24.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 56 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that SMU will win straight-up is 96%.

SMU vs Nevada Stats

SMU Mustangs

The SMU Mustangs had a strong showing last season, finishing ranked 22nd in the AP Top 25 and 24th in the Coaches Poll. Despite being unranked heading into the 2024 season, they have a promising offense with nine returning starters, including junior quarterback Preston Stone who threw for 28 touchdowns with only six interceptions last year. Wide receiver Jake Bailey, back for his sixth collegiate season, is also expected to make an impact. On the defensive end, SMU hopes to maintain their strong performance from last season, allowing just 17.4 points per game. Safety Jonathan McGill and the defensive line, including Elijah Roberts, Kori Roberson, and Cameron Robertson, are key returning players. Additionally, the team has added depth through transfers. With a power ranking of 7, SMU is currently ranked 8th in offense and 11th in defense, and are starting the season with a 0-0 record.

Nevada Wolfpack Analysis

The Nevada Wolfpack football team is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2023 season, in which they only won two games for the second straight year. With a new head coach, Jeff Choate, at the helm and junior quarterback Brendon Lewis leading the offense, the team is focused on embracing their underdog status and improving on both sides of the ball. The defense, in particular, struggled last season, but Choate's experience in coaching a strong rush defense at Texas could help turn things around. Key players like MLB Drue Watts and safety Kitan Crawford are expected to make an impact this season. Despite their low power ranking and offensive and defensive rankings, the Wolfpack are determined to make strides and surprise some people this year. In their upcoming matchup with SMU, who has had a recent advantage over Nevada, the team will be looking to start the season strong.

Opening Spread Appropriate for Nevada vs. SMU Game Despite Roster Uncertainties

Both teams had solid performances last season, making this week's opening spread appropriate. However, the spread may seem significant considering uncertainties surrounding each team's roster and performance capabilities. Nevada is expected to focus more on defense this season under new coaching leadership, potentially improving their overall defensive performance. Despite this improvement, Nevada has not made significant changes to their defensive personnel, which could pose a challenge against the formidable offense of SMU. SMU's high-tempo playing style is likely to test Nevada's defense early in the game. Weather conditions for the game are expected to be mild, with no precipitation forecasted. Based on the factors at play, it is recommended to bet on SMU to cover the spread and make a strong start in the ACC.

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