Saturday, Oct. 3, Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, 3:30 p.m., ET
Memphis Tigers
This may seem like a second season-opener for the Tigers, who have been idle since a 27-24 win over Arkansas State back on Sept. 5. Schedule games against Houston and UTSA were both canceled because of coronavirus issues. Coach Ryan Silverfield says a “majority” of his players are back and ready to go, though still not at complete strength. Brady White had a nice start to the 2020 campaign, completing 27 of 37 passes for 280 yards and four touchdowns in the win over Arkansas State.
SMU Mustangs
Coming off a 3,929-yard season, Shane Buechele is off to a another solid start. He has completed 64 of 94 passes for 852 yards in SMU’s two wins, and though the opposition may be suspect (Texas State, North Texas, Stephen F. Austin), those are pretty good numbers even against air.
Reggie Roberson Jr. has been his favorite target with 17 receptions for 231 yards and three scores, and Rashee Rice has 13 catches for another 240. Ulysses Bentley IV has rushed for 358 yards and TJ McDaniel for 293 as the Mustangs have averaged 267.7 yards a game rushing to the 150.7 of their opponents.
Memphis Tigers at SMU Mustangs Betting Pick
Both teams have issues that make them difficult to figure. Memphis hasn’t played so long it’s like the Tigers are starting a new season. The Mustangs are one of a handful of 3-0 teams, but the schedule has featured a Sun Belt opponent (Texas State) and an FCE foe (S.F.Austin). Both teams should be able to score.
Memphis Tigers at SMU Mustangs Betting Pick: Tigers (-2.5) 49, Mustangs (+2.5) 45
Memphis Tigers at SMU Mustangs Best Bet
The two teams had a big shootout the last meeting with Memphis winning 54-48 in 2019. With White and Buechele set to duel again, some eye-popping numbers likely will be posted once again.
Memphis Tigers at SMU Mustangs Best Bet: OVER 74.5
