---

Memphis vs. SMU prediction and game preview. Projecting who wins the matchup between the Tigers and Mustangs.

---

Memphis vs. SMU Game Preview

When: Saturday, November 5 – 4:00 p.m. ET
Where: Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, TX
TV Broadcast: ESPNEWS

Memphis lost its second game in a row, this one 59-30 to Tulsa as the defense was shredded for 596 yards, 362 of that coming on the ground. The Memphis offense played its part, with quarterback Riley Ferguson throwing for 349 yards and three touchdowns, but he was intercepted twice.

SMU sneaked by Tulane 35-31 for its second victory in a row. Running back Braeden West ran for 119 yards and two touchdowns while quarterback Ben Hicks threw for 302 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.

What To Know About Memphis

Ferguson lit it up against Tulsa, but still needs to cut down on the costly mistakes that has haunted him all season, as he has thrown as many touchdown passes (11) as interceptions. Trying to get running back Doroland Dorceus back into a rhythm would be a good thing for the Tigers.

The Tigers must be better on defense. After it being a strong point for Memphis last season, the defensive unit has struggled this year, ranking No. 89 in the nation in yards allowed per game while allowing 27.1 points per game.

What to Know About SMU

Hick and West should be licking their chops after seeing what Tulsa did to the Tigers defense. The Mustangs can beat you through the air or on the ground, although the aerial assault averages around 50 more yards per game.

The Mustangs give up the points as well, allowing 30.4 points per game. This could be a shootout, Wild West style.

Advantages

Offense: SMU. The Mustangs are more balanced on offense than the Tigers.

Defense: Tie. Both teams give up points at an alarming rate.

Special Teams: Tie. Both place kickers have been consistent on field goal attempts.

Coaching: Tie. These two could be hearing from bigger programs in the future.

Intangibles: SMU. The Mustangs need two wins to become bowl eligible.

Matchup To Watch

Braeden West vs. Memphis defense

West could have a monster game against the Tigers defense that 206.13 rushing yards per game.

Memphis vs. SMU Betting Odds

Spread: Memphis -3
Over/Under: 64.5

Memphis vs. SMU Prediction

This could be the classic case of whichever team has the ball last wins the game. Both defenses have struggled to stop opposing offenses, and both offenses are able to put up points in a hurry. In the end, I’m going to go with the team with the momentum, and that is SMU. The Mustangs win a close one.

Memphis vs. SMU Score Prediction: SMU 38, Memphis 35

MORE: 1-128 College Football Rankings – Week 10