The 20th-ranked SMU Mustangs (7-1, 4-0 ACC) host the 18th-ranked Pittsburgh Panthers (7-0, 3-0) in an ACC matchup this Saturday night. Pittsburgh is coming off a dominant home win against the Syracuse Orange by a score of 41-13 in Week 9. Quarterback Eli Holstein completed 11 of 15 passes for 108 yards and 2 touchdowns in the game. Running back Desmond Reid carried the ball 11 times for 47 yards.
The Mustangs are coming off a 28-27 overtime away win over the Duke Blue Devils in Week 9. Running back Brashard Smith carried the ball 26 times for 117 yards and 2 touchdowns. Quarterback Kevin Jennings completed 13 of 24 passes for 258 yards, 3 interceptions, and 1 touchdown.
Will the Mustangs continue their perfect start in the ACC, or will the Panthers pull a major upset?
Pittsburgh Panthers vs. SMU Mustangs Odds
| Team | Spread | Total | Money Line |
| Pittsburgh Panthers | +7.5
-115 |
Over 59
-112 |
+235 |
| SMU Mustangs | -7.5
-105 |
Under 59
-108 |
-290 |
| **Odds Subject to Change** | |||
Pittsburgh Panthers vs. SMU Mustangs Match Details
- Fixture: Pittsburgh Panthers vs. SMU Mustangs
- Date and Time: Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET
- Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, Texas
Key Stats
- Sep 14, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Desmond Reid celebrates with Raphael Williams Jr. (5) after a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Image Images
Pittsburgh Panthers
The Pittsburgh Panthers enter the game 7-0, averaging 40.9 points per game this season. Desmond Reid leads the team in rushing, averaging 77.29 yards per game with 3 touchdowns. Quarterback Eli Holstein is averaging 257.86 passing yards per game and is completing 64.20% of his passes. To start the year, he has thrown 17 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
Wide Receiver Konata Mumpfield averages 67.57 receiving yards per game and 3 touchdowns, while Desmond Reid is averaging 48.71 receiving yards per game and has 4 touchdowns. From a defensive standpoint, Pittsburgh has 10 interceptions and 22 sacks. They are allowing 22.0 points per game.
SMU Mustangs
The SMU Mustangs enter 7-1, averaging 39.13 points per game this season. Running back Brashard Smith leads the team in rushing, averaging 93.13 yards per game, and has 9 touchdowns. Quarterback Kevin Jennings averages 199.25 passing yards per game and has completed 64.30% of his passes. So far this season, he has thrown 10 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
Tight End RJ Maryland is averaging 44.88 receiving yards per game and has scored 4 touchdowns. Roderick Daniels Jr is averaging 36.63 receiving yards per game and has 1 touchdown. Defensively, SMU has 12 interceptions and 17 sacks. They are allowing 21.38 points per game.
Prediction
The fact that SMU is more than a touchdown favorite is surprising given that Pittsburgh has nearly been perfect this season. The Panthers just put on a clinic defensively against Syracuse, forcing 5 interceptions, 3 of which were touchdowns. Pittsburgh has also been more balanced offensively and has a much better quarterback.
SMU on the other hand, had a close call with Duke this past week and only won because the Blue Devils went for and failed on a two-point conversion to win the game in overtime. The Mustangs have shown they can score points quickly, but at the same time, they have had games where they struggled to move the ball. Further, their defense has been inconsistent as well, so for that reason, backing the Pittsburgh Panthers to cover will be our best bet.
Final Pick
Pittsburgh Panthers +7.5 (-115)
For More Great Content
Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips to sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play. Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out – explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
