Southern Methodist vs Stanford Picks and Prediction – 10/20/2024

The SMU Mustangs (5-1, 2-0 ACC) visit the Stanford Cardinal (2-4, 1-2 ACC) in a matchup that pits two programs trending in opposite directions. SMU has reeled off back-to-back wins, including a thrilling 34-27 victory over Louisville. Stanford, on the other hand, is coming off a rough stretch, most recently getting trounced by Notre Dame, 49-7. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

SMU’s offense has been clicking with quarterback Kevin Jennings leading the way. Jennings has racked up 1,014 passing yards with six touchdowns and just one interception. Running back Brashard Smith provides balance with 561 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, while receiver RJ Maryland has caught 304 yards' worth of passes with three touchdowns. The Mustangs are averaging over 40 points per game in the last three contests.

Defensively, SMU’s improvement has been notable. They’ve tightened up after early struggles, highlighted by holding Florida State to 16 points. The Mustangs excel at creating pressure and forcing turnovers, which could be pivotal against a mistake-prone Stanford offense.

Stanford’s offense has been inconsistent, with quarterback Ashton Daniels throwing for 707 yards, five touchdowns, and six interceptions. Daniels is also the Cardinal’s top rushing threat with 292 yards on the ground, highlighting Stanford's struggle to find a consistent running game. Elic Ayomanor leads the receiving corps with 333 yards and three touchdowns, but the Cardinal have struggled to finish drives effectively.

Defensively, Stanford has allowed 34.7 points per game, including 49 points to Notre Dame last week. The secondary has been vulnerable, which is bad news facing a hot SMU passing attack. The Cardinal defense will need to step up to avoid another lopsided loss.

SMU has been the more consistent team this season, both offensively and defensively. With Jennings managing the offense efficiently and Smith keeping defenses honest on the ground, the Mustangs should have no trouble putting up points. Stanford's recent struggles suggest they won’t be able to keep up, especially if the Cardinal continue to turn the ball over. Expect the Mustangs to cover the spread. Final Score Prediction: SMU wins and covers 41-20.