Arizona Wildcats (3-2) vs. BYU Cougars (5-0)
One of the noteworthy matchups in the NCAAF Week 7 is where the Arizona Wildcats head for an interesting clash against the unbeaten BYU Cougars playing at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday afternoon. While most eyes will be on the 4:00 PM ET kickoff as it can be viewed throughout the country on the FOX network, this is also one of the top NCAAF Week 7 predictions. The Wildcats’ record may not be flashy, having won three out of five games so far (3-2), but they intend to spoil BYU’s ambitions of having a perfect start to the season.
In the Wildcats’ camp, running back Quali Conley is looking to have a breakout year. He has 69 rushing attempts completing 419 yards, accumulating to a 6.1 yards-per-rush rate. These statistics alone show why Conley is a threat running the ball. His quickness in getting through holes and making some plays extending them makes him useful especially against BYU’s defense. The Wildcats also boast of their key wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan who has registered 664 receiving yards consisting of 37 catches. In addition to his defensive contributions, McMillan catches an average of 17.9 yd per reception and has scored 4 touchdowns, a big problem for the Cougar secondary.
On the contrary, the Cougars have their superstars to bank on. Running back Sione I Moa is not the leading rusher at BYU, but contributes 4.4 yards per carry to the team’s rushing depth. His knack for converting important short gains into first downs will be critical for ball retention and controlling the game’s tempo. Wide receiver Chase Roberts more complected the offensive line with 336 yards and is useful in making plays that expand the scope of the Wildcats’ defense and create scoring opportunities.
Arizona Wildcats vs. BYU Cougars Game Info
| When: | Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | LaVell Edwards Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Noah Fifita QB vs. Jake Retzlaff QB
Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita has had a rollercoaster season, experiencing some ups and downs with 1,361 total passing yards, 61.5% completions and a rather troubling stat of only 7 touchdowns compared with 6 interceptions. However, Fifita’s success as a dual-threat quarterback is undermined by his tendency to turn the ball over which could be a concern for BYU’s defense. Making effective quick throws under duress along with his overall mobility is needed to crack through BYU’s defensive front line.
BYU’s Jake Retzlaff has been more effective this season, with a passer rating of 150 and over 1200 passing yards and 12 touchdowns and only 5 interceptions. This season has seen Retzlaff’s ability to make decisions under pressure when passing the ball help TSU’s cause in keeping the winning streak intact. The ability to make long throws in the right moments would help expose certain weaknesses in the Wildcats’ defense.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Arizona Wildcats -122, Total Odds: 54.5
Arizona are listed as slight favorites despite BYU’s undefeated record, a nod to their challenging schedule and ability to perform under pressure. The total set at 54.5 points suggests expectations for a high-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Arizona Wildcats Betting Trends
Arizona’s recent betting trends do not favor their ATS record, standing 1-4 in their last 5 games. However, their 10-2 SU record in the last 12 games indicates resilience in tight contests. The total going UNDER in 4 of their last 5 games might influence bets towards a lower scoring outcome than the odds suggest.
BYU Cougars Betting Trends
Conversely, BYU shines with a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games, underscoring their reliability against the spread. Their 5-0 SU record in recent games confirms their status as formidable contenders. The total has gone UNDER in all last 6 matchups against Arizona, which might tilt expert predictions towards a defensive showdown.
Arizona Wildcats vs. BYU Cougars 10/12/24 Betting Picks
Thanks to thorough preparations in reviewing a certain matchup and outstanding patterns among bettors, one may expect an entertaining battle between the Arizona Wildcats and BYU Cougars teams. However, all these factors lead me to conclude that BYU has been more stable and tactically smart, especially at the home court, than what Arizona’s last seen erratic style would suggest.
Considering the available best online betting opportunities, it makes sense to put a bet on BYU covering the spread especially given their good performance against the spread and at home. Placing a bet on the under total points to be scored is also a good course of action considering both teams are likely to be poor offensively on such occasions.
