The 13th-ranked SMU Mustangs (9-1, 6-0 ACC) travel to face the Virginia Cavaliers (5-5, 3-3 ACC) in a pivotal Week 13 matchup. SMU seeks to remain unbeaten in conference play, hoping for a bye in the College Football Playoff, while Virginia aims to secure bowl eligibility with a win.
Key Players and Offensive Strengths
SMU Mustangs
Passing Game: Kevin Jennings leads the Mustang offense, amassing 2,198 passing yards, 15 passing touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. His ability to manage games and make explosive plays will be pivotal. Deep threat Key'Shawn Smith tops the receiving corps with 415 yards, 4 touchdowns, and a 16.6-yard average per catch.
Rushing Attack: SMU is a notably balanced team, with a vision to establish the run game. Explosive running back Brashard Smith leads the ground game with 1,026 rushing yards and a 6.5 yards-per-carry.
Virginia Cavaliers
Passing Game: It's been a rough season for Virginia's passing attack. Quarterback Anthony Colandrea has 2,017 passing yards but has struggled to finish drives this season as the team ranks 89th in offensive points per game. The go-to target, Malachi Fields has racked up 746 receiving yards and averages 15.2 yards per catch.
Rushing Attack: Virginia has struggled in the run game this season, ranking 87th out of 134 teams in rushing yards. The Cavaliers’ ground attack has been led by Xavier Brown and Kobe Pace, who combined for 961 rushing yards. Establishing the run could prove challenging against the SMU defense.
Defensive Outlook
SMU Mustangs
The Mustangs have allowed opponents significant passing yardage this season, ranked in the bottom third in college football in 2024. This could open opportunities for Virginia's passing game to have a strong day. The pass rush led by defensive ends Jahfari Harvey and Isaiah Smith will have to step up and help SMU's wavering secondary.
Virginia Cavaliers
The Cavaliers's defense is anchored by Safety Jonas Sanker, while linebacker Kam Robinson adds pressure with a team-leading 4 sacks. Virginia will need their pass rush to be effective against Kevin Jennings, as limiting his time in the pocket is essential to slowing down SMU’s balanced offense.
Conclusion and Prediction
SMU enters as the favorite due to their potent offense and unbeaten ACC record. Virginia’s inconsistencies and turnover issues could prove costly against a Mustangs team firing on all cylinders. While the Cavaliers’ defense can pose challenges, SMU’s depth and momentum should carry them to victory.
JY Official Prediction: SMU 38, Virginia 21
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