Miami vs South Florida Prediction & Betting Tips - September 21 | College Football Week 4
The Miami Hurricanes are on the road to play the South Florida Bulls on Saturday, September 21, at 7 pm. ET. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
Miami is ranked eighth and 3-0 this season, coming off a 62-0 home win over Ball State. South Florida, meanwhile, is 2-1 and returned to the win column in Week 3 after a loss to Alabama at home in Week 2.
Miami vs South Florida Prediction
The Miami Hurricanes are 16.5-point favorites to defeat USF on the road. The over/under for the game is set at 65 points.
Through three weeks, Miami has been the favorite to win the ACC. The Hurricanes had a statement blowout win over Florida on the road in Week 1. Since then, Miami has had two easier opponents and is once again a big favorite here.
The Hurricanes are led by quarterback Cam Ward who is the favorite to win the Heisman entering Week 4. However, Ward is expecting a very difficult matchup against South Florida's defense.
“I think this is going to be one of the most physical teams that we played all year. It’s going to be a good challenge both sides of the ball... I don’t think they get a lot of credit for what they put on tape this year, we’re just ready for the opportunity," Ward said on Wednesday, via Local10.
South Florida, meanwhile, scored a 49-24 road win over Southern Miss in Week 3. It was a great performance from the Bulls after their 42-16 loss to Alabama, in a game that was close until USF allowed 28 points in the fourth quarter.
Entering this matchup, South Florida defensive coordinator Todd Orlando said slowing down Ward will be difficult.
“Cam’s going to put them in the best possible position depending on the coverage he sees,” Orlando said Wednesday, via USFOracle. “That’s going to be tough to go against... “Their O-line is big, massive, they move their feet, super well coached. Those kids are disciplined, they’re going to be tough.”
The Bulls, however, are led by running back Kelly Joiner who rushed for 117 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries against Southern Miss. Getting Joiner involved in the game early will be key for USF.
Ultimately, Miami's offense will be the difference-maker as Cam Ward should cruise to a lopsided win here. The Hurricanes are the real deal and will continue to prove it in this road matchup, as Miami has a rather easy schedule going forward.
Prediction: Miami 37, South Florida 20
Miami vs South Florida Betting Tips:
Tip 1: Miami -16.5 (-110)
Tip 2: Under 65 (-112)
Tip 3: Cam Ward over 300 yards passing (-185)
Tip 4: Kelley Joiner over 40 yards rushing (+140)