No. 8 Cincinnati Bearcats vs Indiana Hoosiers: Key September 18 Betting Matchup

By Michael Harrison

December 7, 2024 at 04:22 AM

The No. 8 Cincinnati Bearcats (2-0) face their first real test as they travel to face the Indiana Hoosiers (1-1) on Saturday at noon EST on ESPN.

The Bearcats have cruised through their first two games against Miami (OH) and Murray State, while Indiana rebounded from a 34-6 loss to #5 Iowa with a 56-14 win over Idaho.

Betting Odds:

  • Cincinnati -3.5 (-105)
  • Indiana +3.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under: 49.5 (O: -105, U: -115)
  • Moneyline: Cincinnati -170, Indiana +150

Keys for Cincinnati:

  • Defense needs to contain Indiana's run game
  • Force turnovers from struggling QB Michael Penix Jr. (3 INTs)
  • Maintain offensive production behind QB Desmond Ridder and RB Jerome Ford
  • Defense allowing just 3.74 yards per play (ranked 18th nationally)

Keys for Indiana:

  • Establish run game with RB Stephen Carr (4.3 YPC)
  • Improve passing efficiency (Penix Jr. at 53.2% completion)
  • Limit big plays on defense
  • Take advantage of home field advantage

Game Prediction: Cincinnati's superior talent on both sides of the ball should prove too much for Indiana. The Bearcats will win this key road test before their bye week and crucial matchup at Notre Dame.

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