SMU vs. Nevada (Week 0): Odds, Predictions & How to Watch

As college football kicks off its Week 0 action, fans can look forward to an exciting matchup between the SMU Mustangs and the Nevada Wolf Pack. This game is set to take place on Saturday, August 24th, at 8:00 PM Eastern Time, and will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network. SMU, entering their first season in the ACC, is a heavy favorite on the road, with high expectations for their season opener in Reno.

Where to Watch and Game Time

  • Date: Saturday, August 24th
  • Time: 8:00 PM Eastern Time
  • Location: Mackay Stadium, Reno, Nevada
  • TV Channel: CBS Sports Network

Betting Odds and Analysis

The Line
SMU is currently favored by 25 points, reflecting the consensus that the Mustangs have a significant advantage over the Nevada Wolf Pack. The spread in betting refers to the number of points by which the favored team must win for a bet on them to be successful. In this case, SMU needs to win by more than 25 points for bettors to win their wagers on the Mustangs.

The Total
The total, or over/under, for this game is set at 56 points. This number represents the combined total points scored by both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the final score will be over or under this number. Considering SMU’s potent offense and Nevada’s defensive struggles, the over could be a popular bet in this matchup.

The Moneyline
The moneyline for this game shows SMU as a strong favorite, with a payout of -1100. This means you would need to bet $1,100 on SMU to win $100. On the other hand, a bet on Nevada would yield a much higher return, as they are the underdog in this matchup.

In-Depth Game Analysis

Team Overview

SMU Mustangs

  • Coach: Rhett Lashlee
  • Conference: ACC (New Member)
  • Overall 247 Talent: 21
  • Power Rating: 15
  • Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 102

Nevada Wolf Pack

  • Coach: Jeff Choate
  • Conference: Mountain West
  • Overall 247 Talent: 83
  • Power Rating: 87
  • Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 92

The SMU Mustangs, led by Rhett Lashlee, are stepping up in class this season with their move to the ACC. Known for their high-powered offense, SMU will be looking to make a statement in their season opener. Nevada, under new head coach Jeff Choate, faces a tough challenge as they look to rebuild and establish an identity in the Mountain West.

Offensive and Defensive Comparisons

SMU

  • Offensive Coordinator: Joey Halzle
  • Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 106
  • Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 20
  • Defensive Coordinator: Tim Banks
  • Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 97
  • Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 24

Nevada

  • Offensive Coordinator: Robert Anae
  • Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 58
  • Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 44
  • Defensive Coordinator: Tony Gibson
  • Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 68
  • Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 22

SMU boasts a strong offensive unit with depth in key positions, particularly at quarterback and wide receiver. Nevada, while solid defensively, will struggle to keep pace with SMU’s firepower, especially given their issues on the offensive side of the ball.

Key Points to Watch

SMU’s Offensive Firepower
SMU’s offense is expected to shine in this matchup. With Preston Stone returning at quarterback and a talented group of receivers, the Mustangs have the potential to score early and often. The key will be how well they execute against a Nevada defense that is likely to be overmatched.

Nevada’s Challenges on Offense
Nevada’s offense, led by quarterback Brendon Lewis, has yet to establish a clear identity. With key injuries and limited depth, the Wolf Pack will need to rely on their running game to keep the SMU offense off the field. However, given SMU’s strong run defense, this could be a difficult task.

Weather Conditions
The weather in Reno is expected to be mild, with no significant wind or rain forecasted. This should allow both teams to execute their game plans without any weather-related disruptions.

Betting Picks and Predictions

Given the spread, total, and moneyline, this game presents several intriguing betting opportunities:

  • Spread: SMU is heavily favored, and while the 25-point spread is large, the Mustangs’ offensive depth suggests they could cover. Bettors might consider taking SMU to cover, especially given Nevada’s struggles.
  • Total: With SMU’s explosive offense and Nevada’s defensive weaknesses, betting the over on 56 points seems like a prudent choice.
  • Moneyline: SMU is the clear choice for an outright win, but the low payout on the moneyline makes it less appealing for bettors.

Conclusion

This Week 0 matchup between SMU and Nevada is set to be a high-scoring affair, with SMU looking to make a statement in their season opener. As the Mustangs prepare for their move to the ACC, this game offers a glimpse of what’s to come. For Nevada, the focus will be on building toward the future under their new head coach. Whether you’re a fan or a bettor, this game is one to watch as college football returns in 2024.

Make sure to:

Hawaii vs Delaware State (Week 0): Odds, Predictions & How to Watch
Montana State vs. New Mexico (Week 0): Odds, Predictions & How to Watch

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