BYU Cougars vs. UCF Knights 10/26/24 – We’re already nearing the midpoint of the season, and as Week 9 approaches, the game we have in our sights features undefeated BYU Cougars, who have a record of 7-0, looking to extend their record further against UCF Knights, who are having a rough patch with a record of just 3-4. This game is set to take place on October 26, 2024, Saturday, with the action starting at 3:30 PM ET. The Venue will be the FBC Mortgage Stadium. The Fans can either watch it live on ESPN or online at Sofascore. In NCAAF previews today.
BYU Cougars vs. UCF Knights 10/26/24
| When: | Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 3:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | FBC Mortgage Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cougars | +1.5 (-110) | Over 55.5 (-105) | +100 |  |
| Knights | -1.5 (-110) | Under 55.5 (-115) | -120 | |
| ||||
LaVell Edwards Stadium is second to none.
— BYU FOOTBALL (@BYUfootball) October 24, 2024
The odds indicate that there are expected to be close contests. Although their record does not look impressive there are slight betting odds which favour the UCF Knights to win. The Cougars sitting at a +1.5 spread underdog status is fascinating due to the fact that they have not lost a game this season. Betters could take value on BYU this season looking at their performance as well as the +100 money line offered. The total is currently at 55.5 awaiting odds a shade above the over, reflecting anticipation of both teams running up the score.
Jake Retzlaff QB vs. KJ Jefferson QB
Being their key offensive player, Jake Retzlaff has already thrown for 1,644 passing yards and 16 touchdowns against 7 interceptions for BYU this season. He has a decent completion rate of 59% and a passer rating of 145.3, even after being sacked six times. With his longest pass being 57 yards, deep attempts might be crucial for UCF in overcoming Retzlaff’s ability to throw deep passes.
UCF’s KJ Jefferson also has a similar completion percentage of 59.3%, though he has only registered 1,012 yards. He does, however, have an impressive yards-per-attempt average of 9.4, which includes a season-best pass of 75 yards. He has more sacks attributed to him as well, 13 in total, which has hampered his mobility and ability to make plays. His passer rating is somewhat better at 151.9 and indicates that when he does make the pass then it is likely to be effective, which will be crucial against the defensive line of BYU.
Clash of the Quarterbacks
The game could very well hinge on the quarterback duel. Retzlaff’s consistency and touchdown capability make him a formidable opponent, but Jefferson’s big-play potential cannot be underestimated. Both quarterbacks face defenses that have shown vulnerabilities, and their ability to exploit these will be key. Retzlaff will need to manage the pocket pressure better, while Jefferson will look to mitigate his sack count to maintain offensive momentum.
Ground and Air Assault: BYU’s Strategic Play
BYU’s offensive strategy leans heavily on Retzlaff’s arm but is well-complemented by LJ Martin in the rushing department, who averages 5.2 yards per carry and has chalked up 4 rushing touchdowns. Darius Lassiter remains Retzlaff’s top receiving target, amassing 450 yards and 4 touchdowns. This balanced attack could pose significant challenges for UCF’s defense, which has been susceptible to both the run and pass.
UCF’s Response on the Ground and Through the Air
On the other side, UCF counters with RJ Harvey’s impressive 890 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, signalling a potent ground game. Kobe Hudson, with 503 receiving yards, provides Jefferson with a reliable target, averaging an impressive 19.3 yards per catch. UCF’s strategy will likely emphasize exploiting BYU’s defensive gaps, particularly using Harvey’s rushing prowess to control the clock and keep BYU’s offense off the field.
Trends
BYU Cougars Betting Trends
Brigham Young are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Brigham Young’s last 5 games.
Brigham Young are 7-0 SU in their last 7 games.
Cougars are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games on the road.
Brigham Young are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Big 12 conference.
UCF Knights Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Central Florida’s last 7 games.
Central Florida are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
Central Florida are 14-6 SU in their last 20 games at home.
Knights are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games against an opponent in the Big 12 conference.
Central Florida are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games played in October.
BYU Cougars vs. UCF Knights Betting Prediction
The BYU Cougars will likely be the deciding factor in this match as slight underdogs. Their robust ATS record and the consistent OVER on the last games make earning a profit on BYU to cover the spread, and wedging a few chips at the moneyline appears to be a sound strategy. The Knights would pull out all the stops, thanks to home advantage, but with a well-rated Jefferson, they do not seem very reliable going into this match.
Meaning betting on the OVER 55.5 seems a relatively strong option when taking into consideration prop bets and the over-under, including the offensive strengths of both teams. Both teams have shown that they are capable of scoring and they have proven undisciplined defensively, which is going to be exploited. As for the betting guides for the top online casino or sportsbooks, there is no need to worry as there are plenty of options available for those looking for the best prices on these predictions, and an exciting contest awaits.
Score Prediction: BYU Cougars 34, UCF Knights 30.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: October 23, 2024
Last updated: March 28, 2025