Game of the Week
Houston at #17 USF (USF -10.5, Saturday 2:45pm CT)
This game probably will go one of two ways. The first is the most obvious: a USF blowout. The Bulls continue to score points, and they do it by running the ball with their three-headed monster of Quinton Flowers, Darius Tice, and D’Ernest Johnson. That trio averages 259.4 yards per game on the ground, and will be a focal point for Houston’s defense. If any of them get going, it could be a long night for the Cougars. USF’s streak of scoring 30+ points was extended last week in their 34-28 win over Tulane, and it doesn’t seem like that will end anytime soon.
The other scenario is the opposite: a Houston upset. While it may seem far-fetched with the spread of 10.5, the Cougars aren’t a pushover. We saw what this team is capable of last week against Memphis and, even though they lost, this team proved they can compete with anyone in the conference. Major Applewhite decided to pick up the tempo offensively, and it worked wonders for the offense. We mentioned the rushing attack of USF, but that attack meets Ed Oliver for the first time ever. If USF can’t run the ball, Houston’s going to love their chances in this one.
Joe: USF 38 - Houston 24
Joey: Houston 24 USF 23