We’re only two days away from the regular season opener against the 19th ranked Razorbacks and there’s plenty of possibilities that could take place this weekend. Check out several predictions as the Bearcats attempt to take down Arkansas.
Cincinnati Football: Five predictions for the Bearcats trip to Arkansas
1) Ben Bryant starts but Evan Prater plays
All signs have been pointing to Bryant starting under center but it seems like both players will take the field at some point. Bryant has more on-field experience than Prater so it makes sense why the senior quarterback will start in such a hostile environment but he must limit mistakes, stay calm and take care of the ball.
2) Jalen Catalon forces an early interception
I’m expecting Cincinnati to lean on the ground game and play it safe in the first half while breaking in a new quarterback. With that said, I think it’s relatively likely that Bryant will get intercepted in the opener and Catalon is a ballhawk in the defensive backfield that will be focused on making him uncomfortable.
@CoachFick revealed team captains for this season are defensive end Jabari Taylor, linebacker Wil Huber, right guard Dylan O’Quinn, wide receiver Tre Tucker and tight end Josh Whyle for the #Bearcats.https://t.co/jA9BKfLk4p pic.twitter.com/mPUCuqOxvx
— Cincy on the Prowl (@CincyOnTheProwl) August 31, 2022
3) Tre Tucker catches a touchdown pass
Prior to his senior season, Tucker was named a team captain and could be in line for a breakout campaign. I think that will start on Saturday afternoon with at least one touchdown reception. During his first three years at Cincinnati, Tucker has recorded five touchdowns and I’m predicting he finds a way to add to that total this week.
4) Razorbacks rack up 200+ rushing yards
Arkansas averaged an impressive 223.3 rushing yards per game, which led the SEC last season, as KJ Jefferson and Raheim Sanders create one of the nation’s best rushing attacks. I would be surprised if the Razorbacks failed to surpass 200 yards on the ground after seeing what Alabama’s backfield did to Cincinnati in January.
5) Bearcats put up a fight but fall just short
A few days ago, I predicted Arkansas would hang on for a 30-24 win in the season opener. I’m expecting the Bearcats to compete at a high level and have an opportunity to take a lead late in the fourth quarter before falling short on the road. Cincinnati has what it takes to upset Arkansas but it will definitely be a difficult task.