SMU vs. North Texas: Preview & Prediction

Date / Time: 6PM CST Saturday, September 11th, 2021

Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, TX

Watch: ESPN+

Line: SMU -22.5, O/U 74

Both SMU and North Texas roll into week 2 coming off sizable wins against lesser opponents. North Texas will rely heavily on Senior RB DeAndre Torrey to carry much of the workload this week against an SMU front that allowed 4.3 yards per carry against Abilene Christian last week. SMU has lots of experience on defense, especially at linebacker but they simply cannot let North Texas establish themselves on the ground. They must make UNT QB Jace Ruder throw to beat them.

SMU QB Tanner Mordecai set a school record 7 TD passes last week in his first game under center for SMU. SMU will spread the ball around and should not have any trouble scoring at all. North Texas’ defense gave up 418 yards last week to Northwestern State so SMU will not have trouble moving the ball. SMU’s running backs will share carries and have a day against this North Texas defense.

Set Number: X163004 TK1

Look for SMU WR Reggie Roberson Jr. to have an increased workload this week. After 3 catches last week, I expect him to be utilized more in week 2.

Prediction: SMU will score at will and leave it to North Texas to keep pace with them which they will ultimately be unable to do. The SMU defense may give up a couple big plays but will certainly be strong enough to overcome North Texas. I think one will be pretty high scoring.

SMU 48 - 24 North Texas