The 22nd-ranked Miami (FL) Hurricanes are aiming for their first 3-0 start in three years as they prepare to face the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats from the FCS on Thursday night. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The last time Miami began a season 3-0 was back in the shortened 2020 season due to the pandemic. Their impressive performance last week, with a 48-33 victory over Texas A&M, helped them secure a spot in the rankings. Miami has a flawless 6-0 record against in-state rival Bethune-Cookman, including a dominant 70-13 win in their matchup last year. Meanwhile, the Wildcats, with a 1-1 record, are coming off a convincing 31-6 win against Savannah State.
Kickoff for this exciting matchup is set for 7:30 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Miami is heavily favored by 53.5 points, and the over/under for the total points scored is set at 61.5 according to the latest odds for Bethune-Cookman vs. Miami. Before making your predictions for this game, it’s wise to check out the insights from college football expert Tom Fornelli at SportsLine.
Tom Fornelli, a seasoned CBS Sports writer since 2010, has consistently proven to be one of SportsLine’s most reliable college football analysts. He’s currently riding a hot streak with a 6-0 record in his against-the-spread college football picks as we head into Week 3 of the 2023 college football season. Additionally, Fornelli boasts an impressive 20-6 record in his last 26 picks related to Miami, earning his followers nearly $1,500 in profit from Miami picks alone. Those who have followed Fornelli’s advice have seen substantial returns.
Now, Fornelli has turned his attention to the Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman matchup, and he’s already made his picks and college football predictions. You can visit SportsLine to access his expert insights. Here are the key college football odds and betting lines for the Bethune-Cookman vs. Miami showdown:
- Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman spread: Miami -53.5
- Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman over/under: 61.5 points
- BCU: Bethune-Cookman has secured two wins over FBS opponents in the past two decades, both against FIU.
- MIA: The Hurricanes maintain a perfect 6-0 record in head-to-head matchups against Bethune-Cookman.
- Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman picks: Explore Fornelli’s picks at SportsLine.
Key Factors to Consider:
Why Miami Could Cover: A significant factor contributing to the Hurricanes’ success is the emergence of a dynamic set of playmakers on the outside, reminiscent of the program’s historical greatness. In their first two games of the season, Miami has three receivers who’ve amassed at least 10 catches and 150 yards, all of whom have made substantial contributions with big plays. Leading the pack is junior Xavier Restrepo, with 11 receptions for a team-leading 194 yards. While he’s yet to score a touchdown, the other top receivers have found the end zone multiple times. Junior Colbie Young boasts 10 receptions for 154 yards and two touchdowns, while junior Jacolby George has hauled in 11 passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns. Miami’s head coach, Mario Cristobal, has not only been impressed by their playmaking abilities but also their selflessness and willingness to block for one another. He commended their ability to finish plays both with and without the ball in their hands.
Why Bethune-Cookman Could Cover: With the modern transfer rules making it easier for players to transition and make an immediate impact at new programs, first-year head coach Raymond Woodie has assembled a cast of former FBS players who have already made significant contributions to Bethune-Cookman. For instance, starting receiver Tink Boyd, who led the team with 68 receiving yards last week, is a transfer from Virginia Tech. He’s not the only Wildcat with an FBS background, as rushing leader Jouvensly Bazil, a Miami native, began his career at Washington State and has accumulated 78 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries in the first two games. Transfers have also bolstered Bethune-Cookman in the trenches, with left tackle Jahmari Sylvester, a transfer from Florida International, serving as the offensive line leader. Another FIU transfer, linebacker Dearis Thomas, has emerged as one of Bethune-Cookman’s top defensive players, leading the team with 17 tackles.
How to Make Your Picks for Bethune-Cookman vs. Miami: Fornelli has meticulously analyzed this matchup from all angles and is leaning toward the over on the total points scored. He has also identified a crucial X-factor that has led him to favor one side of the spread. To discover this critical insight, head over to SportsLine and access Fornelli’s expert analysis.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Urban Flash News journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
