Pittsburgh (7-0-0) at SMU (7-1-0)
- When: Nov 2 2024, 8:00 PM
- Where: Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, TX
- Where to watch: ACC Network
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Pittsburgh (#18) @ SMU (#20)
Moneyline
Pittsburgh (#18) +235
SMU (#20) -285
Pittsburgh (#18) @ SMU (#20)
Point Spread
Pittsburgh (#18) 7.0 (EVEN)
SMU (#20) -7.0 (-120)
Pittsburgh (#18) @ SMU (#20)
Total
Over 56.0 (-115)
Under 56.0 (-105)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
Pittsburgh: Eli Holstein 1805 Yds
SMU: Kevin Jennings 1594 Yds
Team Stats
| Pittsburgh | SMU | |
| 7-0 | Record | 7-1 |
| 2-0 | Away & Home | 3-1 |
| 6-1-0 | ATS | 5-3-0 |
| 3-4-0 | O/U | 5-3-0 |
Last Matchup:
SMU 28-6, January 7th, 2012
Game Preview
The health of both starting quarterbacks is the focal point as No. 18 Pittsburgh visits No. 20 SMU for a Top 25 showdown in Dallas on Saturday—a game that has significant implications for bettors.
Pittsburgh Panthers head coach Pat Narduzzi announced on his radio show Wednesday that quarterback Eli Holstein has been cleared to play after sustaining an undisclosed injury in the fourth quarter of last week’s 41-13 victory over Syracuse.
"Eli Holstein is ready to go and got cleared today," Narduzzi said on 93.7 The Fan. "Eli is ready to roll. That’s excellent news."
Similarly, SMU Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee confirmed that quarterback Kevin Jennings is medically cleared and will start on Saturday after taking a hit to his knee during last weekend’s 28-27 overtime win against Duke. This update is crucial for bettors assessing the game’s dynamics, as the presence of both starting quarterbacks could influence point spreads and over/under totals.
Holstein, a redshirt freshman transfer from Alabama, has been impressive this season, throwing for 1,808 yards with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions over seven games. His performance is pivotal for Pittsburgh’s offense and could sway prop bets related to passing yards and touchdowns.
Backup quarterback Nate Yarnell has limited experience, appearing in three games and completing 17 of 26 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns. With Holstein back in action, the Panthers’ offense is expected to be at full strength, which might affect their ability to cover the spread.
On the SMU side, Jennings has amassed 1,594 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions this season. His availability stabilizes the Mustangs’ offense, potentially making them a more attractive option for bettors considering the moneyline or against-the-spread wagers.
SMU’s defense is another factor to consider. Ranked 33rd nationally in total defense by allowing just 327 yards per game and tied for seventh with 12 interceptions, the Mustangs present a formidable challenge for Holstein and the Panthers. Bettors might look at the under for Pittsburgh’s team total points or consider SMU’s defense in daily fantasy lineups.
"Defensively, they’re four-down, change it up coverage-wise a little bit, but to me they’re very similar to us defensively," Narduzzi said. "I think what they do is sound—they just play hard and fast. That’s why they’ve had so much success."
Injury reports are also important for prop bets and game totals. SMU wide receiver Jake Bailey, listed as day-to-day, has recorded 19 receptions for 275 yards and one touchdown this season. His status could impact SMU’s offensive output and should be monitored by those placing bets.
Beyond the quarterback narratives, this ACC matchup is intriguing because both teams have exceeded preseason expectations. SMU was predicted to finish seventh, and Pittsburgh was slated 13th in the ACC preseason rankings. Their current Top 25 standings add value for bettors interested in conference futures or playoff odds.
Historically, SMU has dominated recent meetings, winning the last three matchups against Pittsburgh, including a 28-6 victory in the Compass Bowl on January 7, 2012. This will be Pittsburgh’s first visit to SMU, introducing new variables such as travel fatigue and home-field advantage—factors that could influence betting decisions.
As both teams aim to strengthen their standings and outperform preseason predictions, this game offers numerous betting opportunities. Stay updated on injury reports and line movements to make informed wagering decisions.
NCAA Football Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: SMU 31-20
Expert Pick: SMU -7 (-120) & Under 56 (-105)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $358
- NCAAF Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
