BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/6/2024 7:00 PM EST

We have your BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs prop betting and game preview needs covered as the BYU Cougars hit the road to face the SMU Mustangs.

BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: BYU Cougars +375 (Bet365) / SMU Mustangs -385 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -11.0 - BYU Cougars -109 (BetRivers) / -10.5 - SMU Mustangs -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 56.5 - Under -110 (DraftKings) / 55.5 - Over -110 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 9/6/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium (Dallas, TX)
TV: ESPN2

BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs Preview

The BYU Cougars are set to face the SMU Mustangs in a highly anticipated matchup at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Both teams are coming off impressive victories, with BYU defeating Southern Illinois 41-13 and SMU routing Houston Christian 59-7. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams have shown significant improvements and are eager to continue their winning streaks.

BYU, under the leadership of head coach Kalani Sitake, has a history of pulling off upset wins in September, especially when they are considered underdogs. The Cougars have demonstrated resilience and the ability to rise to the occasion, as evidenced by their past performances against formidable opponents. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff was instrumental in their recent victory, throwing for a career-high 348 yards and three touchdowns. The Cougars' offense was efficient, amassing 527 total yards and controlling the ball for over 39 minutes. However, Sitake has emphasized the need for improvement in finishing drives and capitalizing on red zone opportunities, which will be crucial against a strong SMU defense.

On the other hand, SMU, led by head coach Rhett Lashlee, has been explosive on offense, averaging 45.5 points per game over the last ten starts by quarterback Preston Stone. Stone has been a standout performer, boasting a 22:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio during this stretch. The Mustangs' defense has also been formidable, allowing only 157 total yards in their last game and creating turnovers that led to quick scores. SMU's ability to capitalize on turnovers and maintain a balanced offensive attack will be key factors in their quest for victory.

Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, and this matchup will likely come down to which team can execute their game plan more effectively. BYU will need to contain SMU's dynamic offense and improve their special teams play, while SMU will aim to exploit BYU's defense and maintain their offensive momentum. With SMU's new red uniforms adding an extra layer of excitement, this game is set to be a captivating contest under the Friday night lights.

BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs Pick: SMU Mustangs Moneyline

The SMU Mustangs are poised to continue their winning streak as they face the BYU Cougars, and the odds are in their favor. SMU has been dominant in their first two games of the season, showcasing an explosive offense and a stingy defense. Under the leadership of head coach Rhett Lashlee, the Mustangs have averaged 45.5 points per game over the last ten starts by quarterback Preston Stone, who boasts an impressive 22:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Stone's performance has been a key factor in SMU's success, and his ability to lead the offense with precision and efficiency will be crucial against BYU.

SMU's defense has also been formidable, allowing only 157 total yards in their last game against Houston Christian and creating turnovers that led to quick scores. The Mustangs' ability to capitalize on turnovers and maintain a balanced offensive attack will be key factors in their quest for victory. Additionally, SMU's strong record against the spread at home, with a 6-1 ATS as a home favorite since the start of last season, further supports their potential to secure a win against BYU.

While BYU has a history of pulling off upset wins in September, the Cougars will face a tough challenge against an SMU team that is firing on all cylinders. BYU's quarterback Jake Retzlaff had a standout performance in their recent victory over Southern Illinois, but the Cougars will need to improve their red zone efficiency and special teams play to compete with SMU's high-powered offense. With SMU's new red uniforms adding an extra layer of excitement, the Mustangs are set to make a statement both on and off the field. Given SMU's current form and home advantage, the Mustangs are the favored pick to win this matchup.

BYU Cougars at SMU Mustangs Top Player Prop Picks

Preston Stone Over 242.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Preston Stone has been a standout performer for SMU, boasting a 22:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last ten starts. During this stretch, the Mustangs have averaged 45.5 points per game, showcasing their explosive offensive capabilities. Stone's ability to lead the offense with precision and efficiency will be crucial against BYU. Given BYU's recent struggles against mobile quarterbacks and their need to improve defensive containment, Stone is poised to exploit these weaknesses. With SMU's offense firing on all cylinders and Stone's impressive track record, the over on his passing yards is a strong play.

Jake Retzlaff Over 220.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Jake Retzlaff demonstrated his potential in BYU's recent victory over Southern Illinois, throwing for a career-high 348 yards and three touchdowns. The Cougars' offense was efficient, amassing 527 total yards and controlling the ball for over 39 minutes. Retzlaff's ability to move the ball effectively will be crucial against SMU's formidable defense. While SMU's defense has been stingy, allowing only 157 total yards in their last game, Retzlaff's recent performance suggests he can rise to the occasion. With BYU's history of pulling off upsets in September, Retzlaff is likely to exceed expectations, making the over on his passing yards a compelling choice.

Chase Roberts Over 45.5 Receiving Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Chase Roberts is a key target in BYU's passing attack, and with Jake Retzlaff's recent success through the air, Roberts is poised to have a significant impact against SMU. The Cougars' offense has shown the ability to control the game and move the ball effectively, as evidenced by their 527 total yards against Southern Illinois. With SMU's defense focusing on containing Retzlaff, Roberts could find opportunities to exploit gaps in coverage. Given the anticipated high-scoring nature of this matchup and BYU's need to capitalize on their passing game, Roberts is well-positioned to surpass the receiving yards line, making the over a strong pick.