Crossing the Goal Line: Predicting the TCU vs SMU Football Game

Nathan Cross gives his prediction for the game, and whether or whether not the Frogs cover the spread.

Editors Note: "Crossing the Goal Line" is a weekly column by Nathan Cross in which he predicts the upcoming TCU game. He looks at the point spread, the over/under, and makes a prediction. This is his opinion and should not be taken as betting advice.

TCU hosts SMU on Saturday. The Frogs are favored to win by 6.5 points with an over/under of 63.5. Let's examine why TCU will cover the spread and why I am taking the over for the game. Here is why I believe this:

Why TCU Will Beat The Spread Over SMU

The Frogs are returning home

TCU is returning to its home fan base, and you can expect it to be electric, as the SMU game is always that way. I expect the Frogs to come into this game with high expectations and ready to fight it out with the Mustangs for the Battle for the Iron Skillet.

TCU is back on track

The Frogs have had large back-to-back wins and have improved each week. TCU is coming off of their first Big 12 win against Houston, where they beat the Cougars 36-13. They will work hard to stay on track and play a good competitive game against SMU. TCU must expect SMU to be ready. In the end, it will be who wants it more. 

TCU has better stats in almost every category

The Horned Frogs have better stats in almost every team stat category other than total yards allowed and passing yards allowed. I don't think SMU can hold the TCU offense the whole game. The Horned Frogs' rushing attack will get to them early in the game.

Chandler Morris is a more experienced QB

SMU's QB Preston Stone is a talented QB, but he doesn't have the years behind him that Chandler Morris has. Morris has more years of experience, which gives him the needed confidence. I think he keeps getting better each game. I think it will be a battle of the QBs this game.

Emani Bailey is a beast

All teams should be afraid of Emani Bailey. He can potentially be one of the top running backs in college football this season. Bailey and Trey Sanders are a deadly duo. The two backs will be too much for SMU to handle.

TCU will win this game 42-21 because of all the factors mentioned. TCU has more weapons than SMU, and the Frogs will come more prepared. Again, this is just my opinion; anything could happen. Check out fellow KillerFrogs writer Brett Gibbons' Opponent Preview article for more information on SMU.

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