The 3-1 Buffalo Bulls are set to take on the 2-2 UConn Huskies in what should be a closely contested matchup. The Bulls are on a two-game winning streak, with their most recent victory a road win against Northern Illinois.
The Huskies managed to even up their record by taking care of business against FAU. However, their two early season losses to Duke and Maryland may be more telling.
Are the Huskies getting too much respect at home? Let's find out as I make Buffalo vs. UConn prediction below.
Buffalo vs UConn Prediction
I predict that the Buffalo Bulls will be very competitive in this matchup and cover the spread of 6.5. They also have a chance to win outright.
- Pick: Buffalo +6.5
Buffalo vs UConn Odds
| Buffalo Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+6.5 -110 | 44.5 -110 / -110 | +195 |
| UConn Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-6.5 -110 | 44.5 -110 / -110 | -230 |
- Buffalo vs UConn Point Spread: Buffalo +6.5 (-110) · UConn -6.5 (-110)
- Buffalo vs UConn Total: Over/Under 44.5
- Buffalo vs. UConn Moneyline: Buffalo +195 · UConn -230
Buffalo vs UConn Preview
Buffalo Bulls Betting Preview: Ogbonna Could Have Big Game
The Bulls have decided to run the ball consistently this season. They have the 22nd-highest rush rate in the country. While they are not the most efficient at it, ranking 108th in yards per carry, they'll have an opportunity to improve in this matchup.
UConn's defense has been attacked on the ground. Over 53% of the plays against the Huskies have been runs, and they've allowed five yards per attempt, which ranks 98th in the country.
That means we are going to see a lot of Jacqez Barksdale and Al-Jay Henderson. The Bulls running back duo has combined to average four yards per carry and should be able to wear down UConn's defense.
However, in Buffalos' three victories, quarterback C.J. Ogbonna has played a big role. If you remove the rough performance against Missouri, Ogbonna has completed 60.2% of his passes and is averaging 7.6 yards per completion.
UConn's secondary ranks 106th in completion percentage allowed and 84th in yards per pass allowed. So, if Buffalo can't pound the rock, look for Ogbonna to move the chains through the air and potentially create some explosive plays.
Connecticut Huskies Betting Preview: Will Rushing Attack Find Success?
On the other side of the ball, the UConn offense profiles similarly to what we'll see from the Buffalo Bulls, but the Huskies have a three-headed backfield with a mobile quarterback in Nick Evers.
This diverse rushing attack has led the Huskies to an average of 5.2 yards per carry, while running the ball at over a 62% clip. However, what separates these teams is the Bulls' defense.
Buffalo has been excellent at defending the pass as its 15th in yards per pass allowed and third in PFF's coverage grading. This confidence in the secondary will allow Buffalo to sell out and stop the run since the threat of UConn's passing attack is minimal.
So, while the Huskies may look to have the more potent rushing attack on paper, getting results against the Bulls defense may be challenging.
Buffalo vs UConn Pick & Prediction
This game is going to be a grind as both teams are heavily committed to running the football. Possessions will be limited, and time will tick fast for whichever team winds up on the wrong end of a methodical drive.
However, Buffalo's passing attack could be the X-factor. Ogbonna has been effective and will have a weak secondary to throw against. He should be able to give the Bulls an extra offensive wrinkle that the Huskies won't have in this matchup.
In a game like this, not much will separate these teams, so Buffalo is the side to back. If the Bulls can manage a few stops, winning this game outright is well within the realm of possibilities.
Pick: Buffalo +6.5 | Play to 5.5
How to Watch Buffalo vs UConn Live: Start Time, TV Channel, Location
| Location: | Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field, Storrs, CT |
| Date: | Saturday, Sept. 28 |
| Kickoff Time: | 12 p.m. ET |
| TV / Streaming: | CBS Sports Network |
Buffalo vs UConn Betting Trends
- Buffalo has gone 3-1 straight up and 3-1 against the spread.
- UConn is 2-2 straight up but 3-1 against the spread.
Buffalo vs UConn Weather
