Buffalo vs Missouri Picks and Prediction – 9/7/2024

The Buffalo Bulls face the Missouri Tigers in a Week 2 matchup that pits a determined Mid-American Conference (MAC) team against a strong Southeastern Conference (SEC) opponent. Buffalo enters this game with a 1-0 record after a solid 30-13 victory over Lafayette, where quarterback C.J. Ogbonna led the team with 195 passing yards and two touchdowns. Missouri, also 1-0, dominated Murray State in a 51-0 blowout, showcasing offensive depth and defensive prowess. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Buffalo's offense demonstrated balance in the opening game, with Jacqez Barksdale rushing for 99 yards and a touchdown, and Nik McMillan leading the receiving corps with 76 yards and a touchdown. The Bulls had 208 rushing yards per game, ranking 17th nationally. The defense also performed well, allowing just 13 points, which ranks them 17th in the nation for points against. However, Buffalo’s passing game, which only managed 195 yards, ranking 38th, will need to improve to challenge Missouri's tough defense.

Defensively, Buffalo will rely heavily on the ability to limit Missouri’s explosive offense. The Bulls have struggled against stronger opponents in the past, as seen in the previous season's losses. For Buffalo to have a chance, the defense must step up, particularly in containing Missouri’s high-powered passing attack. The pressure will be on the secondary to prevent big plays, as the Tigers have the capability to exploit any weaknesses.

Missouri, coming off a dominant performance, displayed a well-rounded offense with Brady Cook throwing for 218 yards and a touchdown. The Tigers’ rushing attack was solid, with Nate Noel contributing 48 yards and a touchdown. Missouri’s offense gained 489 total yards, placing them 16th nationally, and the passing game ranked 12th with 300 yards, showing the ability to move the ball effectively through the air.

On the defensive side, Missouri was exceptional, not allowing a single point in the opener, which ranks them first in the nation for points against. The Tigers’ defense will look to replicate this suffocating performance against a Buffalo team that may struggle to keep up. Missouri's combination of a potent offense and a stout defense makes them a formidable opponent, especially at home.

Given Missouri's dominant performance in the season opener and significant edge in both offensive and defensive statistics, the Tigers are well-positioned to secure another comfortable victory. Buffalo may find it difficult to match Missouri's firepower on both sides of the ball. Final Score Prediction: Missouri Tigers win 41-13.