Game Date: September 14, 2024, 12:00 PM
Location: Fred C. Yager Stadium
Matchup: Cincinnati Bearcats (1-1) vs Miami-OH RedHawks (0-1)
Betting Pick: Over 45.5 points
Lead-in: Miami Ohio has only played one game this season, which was on the road against a tough Northwestern Wildcats team with a strong defense. Miami Ohio's offense is expected to improve significantly playing at home this week. Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s offense has been productive, making the over 45.5 a strong bet for this matchup.
Betting Odds Overview
Moneyline: Cincinnati -130 to -135, Miami-OH +110 to +115
Spread: Cincinnati -2.5 (-110), Miami-OH +2.5 (-110)
Total (Over/Under): 45.5 to 45 points
Team Insights
Cincinnati Bearcats
The Bearcats come into this game with a 1-1 record, averaging 32.5 points per game but also allowing 24 points per contest. Cincinnati’s offense has been balanced, putting up over 440 total yards in both of their games so far, including 449 total yards in a 28-27 loss to Pittsburgh. Cincinnati has the firepower to contribute significantly to the total.
The Bearcats' defense has been vulnerable, allowing 498 total yards against Pittsburgh, which suggests that Miami Ohio will have opportunities to exploit the Cincinnati defense at home. With both teams likely to move the ball, the over looks promising.
Miami-OH RedHawks
Miami Ohio struggled offensively in their season opener, scoring just 6 points in a 13-6 loss to Northwestern. However, this game was against a Northwestern defense that is known for being stout, and the RedHawks played that game on the road. At home, they should see an improvement in offensive production.
Miami Ohio's offense has shown potential in the past, and with Cincinnati’s defense showing vulnerability, the RedHawks should be able to score more than they did in their opener. A more open and higher-scoring game is expected at home.
Key Matchups
Cincinnati Offense vs. Miami-OH Defense
Cincinnati’s passing game (340.5 passing yards per game) will be key in this matchup against a Miami-OH defense that allowed 227 passing yards in their opener. Cincinnati’s balanced attack, which also includes over 200 rushing yards per game, will put pressure on the RedHawks, leading to scoring opportunities.
Miami-OH Offense vs. Cincinnati Defense
Miami Ohio managed only 267 total yards in their opener, but they face a much more porous defense in Cincinnati, which allowed nearly 500 yards to Pittsburgh last week. Miami Ohio’s offense should look much better in this home game, especially after shaking off some rust in their first contest.
Conclusion and Over Pick
With Cincinnati’s offense producing consistently and Miami Ohio returning home after facing a tough defensive opponent, the over 45.5 points is the best bet for this matchup. Cincinnati’s defense has shown weakness, and Miami Ohio should improve on the scoreboard in front of their home crowd, leading to a higher-scoring game than anticipated.
