SMU Mustangs vs. Nevada Wolf Pack to Kick Off the 2024 Season
The 2024 college football season kicks off with an intriguing matchup between the SMU Mustangs and the Nevada Wolf Pack on August 24th. These teams are coming off vastly different 2023 campaigns.
Most spotsbooks have SMU favored by 23.5 a full 2 months prior to kickoff with an early posted total of 57.5.
SMU Mustangs: Embracing New Challenges in the ACC
Last year, the Mustangs soared to an impressive 11-2 record, falling just short of a conference championship. However, the landscape has shifted for SMU as they join the formidable ACC alongside Stanford and Cal. The increased competition raises questions about whether they can replicate last season’s success. Returning a substantial number of starters on both offense and defense provides a solid foundation. Nevertheless, adapting to the ACC’s strength will be a major hurdle. SMU will look to capitalize on their season opener against Nevada, potentially their most favorable matchup of the year.
Nevada Wolf Pack: A Glimmer of Hope in the Rebuilding Process
The Wolf Pack endured a forgettable 2-10 season in 2023, with victories against San Diego State and New Mexico serving as the only bright spots. Their 2-20 record over the past two seasons reflects the challenges they face. To address these struggles, Nevada appointed Jeff Choate as their new head coach. Choate faces an uphill battle in revitalizing the program, but expectations are tempered. Any progress under his leadership will be considered a step in the right direction.
Key Storylines:
- SMU’s Adaptation to the ACC: Can the Mustangs maintain their winning formula against tougher opponents?
- Nevada’s Rebuilding Efforts: Will the Wolf Pack show signs of improvement under Coach Choate?
- Clash of Styles: SMU’s offensive firepower versus Nevada’s defensive focus.
Prediction:
While Nevada might benefit from a home-field advantage, SMU enters the game as the clear favorite. The Mustangs’ experience and offensive prowess are likely to overwhelm the Wolf Pack, who are still finding their footing under a new coaching regime. However, Nevada will aim to use this game as a measuring stick for their progress and to build confidence for the remainder of the season.
Our model, utilizing data from last season, has SMU winning this one by a projected score of 38-14. So right around the current posted line.
We think Nevada finds a way to shorten this game and hang around, In the end they’ll lose but they’ll give their faithful at least a glimmer of home that things will eventually turn around. SMU wins it but Nevada gets the cover.
Nevada +23.5
***UPDATE – ON GAMEDAY WE SEE +28 AVAILABLE!