Army Black Knights (1-1) vs. UTSA Roadrunners (1-1)
The college football season enters its third week with an exciting clash between the Army Black Knights (1-1) and the UTSA Roadrunners (1-1). This highly anticipated game is scheduled for September 15, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET and will be held at the Alamodome, with national coverage provided by ESPN. For those looking for NCAAF daily picks, both teams enter this contest with identical records, adding to the significance of this matchup as they seek to gain an edge in the early stages of the season.
Army possesses a well-rounded roster, with particular attention on running back Hayden Reed and wide receiver Isaiah Alston. Reed has amassed 46 yards on 13 rushing attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. Alston, on the other hand, has demonstrated his prowess with six receptions for an impressive 182 yards, boasting an outstanding average of 30.3 yards per reception and scoring two touchdowns. While Army’s win-loss record stands balanced, these standout players have exhibited moments of brilliance that could prove decisive in the forthcoming contest.
UTSA’s offensive firepower is anchored by running back Kevorian Barnes and wide receiver Joshua Cephus. Barnes has rushed for 206 yards on 42 attempts, averaging 4.9 yards per carry, and has contributed a touchdown. Cephus, with 15 receptions for 161 yards, averages 10.7 yards per catch and has scored a touchdown. Despite a mixed start to the season for the Roadrunners, these key offensive weapons possess the potential to sway the outcome of games in their favor.
Army Black Knights vs. UTSA Roadrunners Game Info
| When: | Friday, September 15, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Alamodome |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream | SofaScore |
Bryson Daily QB vs. Frank Harris QB
Army’s quarterback, Bryson Daily, has completed 13 of 22 attempts for 314 yards, boasting an impressive completion rate of 59.1%. Notably, he averages 14.3 yards per pass attempt, indicative of his willingness to target deep passes. Daily has thrown for three touchdowns but has also been intercepted twice and sacked once. His current passer rating stands at 205.8, underscoring his effectiveness in the passing game despite the occasional interception.
Conversely, UTSA’s Frank Harris has completed 44 of 73 attempts for 423 yards, with a marginally higher completion rate of 60.3%. However, his yards per attempt sit at a more conservative 5.8. Harris has thrown for two touchdowns but has also been intercepted three times and sacked four times, resulting in a loss of 28 yards. His passer rating currently stands at 109.8, significantly lower than Daily’s.
The contrasting styles of these two quarterbacks inject intrigue into this matchup. Daily’s willingness to take risks downfield could prove pivotal, especially if Alston continues his explosive form. Harris, on the other hand, opts for a safer approach, although it has not entirely shielded him from turnovers. Notably, Army’s offensive line has provided better protection for Daily, evidenced by his solitary sack. In contrast, Harris has endured four sacks, revealing vulnerabilities in the UTSA offensive line. Given the quarterbacks’ performances and the protection they receive, Daily appears better positioned to make impactful plays, albeit with a heightened risk of turnovers.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: UTSA Roadrunners -330, Total Odds: 45
The odds for this matchup favor the UTSA Roadrunners with a point spread of -9 and odds at -105, while the Army Black Knights have a spread of +9 with odds at -115. The total over-under for the game is set at 45.
Army Black Knights Betting Trends
Army has demonstrated prowess against the spread, boasting an impressive 7-1 ATS record in their last eight games. Furthermore, their straight-up record in their last five games stands at an admirable 4-1. However, their road performances have been inconsistent, with a 1-4 SU record in their last five away games.
UTSA Roadrunners Betting Trends
UTSA, on the other hand, has struggled against the spread in recent times, going 1-4 ATS in their last five games. Conversely, their straight-up record paints a different picture, with an impressive 11-2 SU record in their last 13 games, including an undefeated streak of seven games at home.
Army Black Knights vs. UTSA Roadrunners 9/15/23 Betting Picks
Considering the recent trends, the performances of the quarterbacks, and key player statistics, Army appears to have a better chance of covering the spread despite their uneven road performances. Bryson Daily’s ability to make significant plays downfield provides Army with a slight edge on offense, even though UTSA boasts an impressive straight-up record. This game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams showcasing offensive capabilities. While UTSA may secure a straight-up victory, top sportsbooks suggest that Army is likely to cover the spread, making them an attractive ATS pick.
Free Pick and Prediction: UTSA Roadrunners will win 28-24
