Cincinnati Football: Last-minute predictions, thoughts against Indiana

If the defense can make Indiana quarterback Connor Bazelak uncomfortable and limit explosive plays from Cam Camper and DJ Matthews, the Bearcats should secure a third straight win. My prediction is Cincinnati pulls away to win 34-20.

Even though Indiana is an undefeated Big Ten team, the Bearcats are 16.5-point favorites leading up to kick off via WynnBET. Tom Allen’s team arrives with an unblemished record but it hasn’t exactly been easy through three games.

Since the Hoosiers have a dynamic passing game, Mike Tressel’s defense needs to create pressure without sending a lot of extra defenders. Jowon Briggs and the entire defensive front will be looking to disrupt Indiana’s offense early on.

After hurting his hand last week, it sounds like starting center Zach Carpenter could return on Saturday against Cincinnati. The head to head battle against Briggs up front will have a major influence on the outcome.

Cincinnati Football: Last-minute predictions, thoughts against Indiana

• Date: Saturday, September 24 at 3:30 PM
• Location: Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati
• TV Broadcast: ESPN2 and fuboTV
• Pregame Spread: Cincinnati (-16.5)

The Bearcats have won 28 consecutive home games but will have to avoid turnovers in order for that streak to continue. Since Cincinnati pulled off a win at Indiana last year, the Hoosiers should be looking for revenge today.

Slow starts against Kennesaw State and Miami didn’t come back to bite the Bearcats because of the depth disparity but Indiana should be able to keep up early on. Luke Fickell explained what the environment will be like per Cincinnati Athletics.

"“This is going to be a great challenge for us. It’s something we’ve been looking forward to and are excited for Nippert Stadium to be rocking. One of the toughest places to play in college football. That’s what I expect on Saturday. We have a job to do and I know just like last week, our student body and fans will do their job. I know our entire team is excited about it.”"