UCF at East Carolina – Preview and Prediction
E CAROLINA 3.5 UCF (61)
Implied Projected Score: E Carolina 32.25 UCF 28.75
MEGALOCKS LINE – E Carolina 4.5
The Game
The JUGGERNAUT UCF Knights visit East Carolina on Saturday afternoon in a very interesting under-the-radar tilt in the AAC. The East division is wide-open this year and the Knights (0-12 last year) look to be right in the thick of things in 2016. Both teams are 2-2 so far, but the Pirates have played the much more difficult schedule, most recently losing to South Carolina and Virginia Tech on the road.
The Match-Up
E Carolina offense vs UCF defense
The Pirates have looked really good with Phillip Nelson at QB. Yes, they are only 2-2, but Nelson has been rock solid this season and even threw for a very quiet (shhhhh) 362 yards and 2 TDs against Virginia Tech. WR Zay Jones is having another great season and is 2ND in the FBS with 49 receptions in only four games. The Pirates also feature a couple of 200-yard rushers (A Scott, J Summers) which makes their attack very difficult to defend. PK Davis PLOWMAN may not go this week and that could make the FGs a bit of an adventure.
UCF is playing with a lot of confidence on defense. They have only played the #122 ranked schedule but are getting PENETRATION via sacks and tackles for loss. Overall they are ranked #19 in defense in the FBS and #27 in pass efficiency defense. This will be their toughest test yet.
UCF offense vs E Carolina defense
The Knights have developed quite the ground attack. Last week they cranked out 276 yards rushing against FIU and apparently have the fastest man in the history of mankind at RB in Adrian Killins. McKenzie Milton and Justin Holman are both good QBs for this offense. WR Tre’quan Smith is off to a good start with 207 yards receiving. East Carolina has had a tough time on defense and are hurting on the DL. It could be a long day trying to stop this Knights’ ground attack.
MEGA Mini-Bites
Last year’s match-up was a 44-7 E Carolina blowout but we do not see the same outcome in the cards this season #HotTake…..The Pirates are just 5-12 ATS L17 games overall and have only covered 3 of the last 16 conference games.
Summary
We really looked hard at taking the Pirates. Now we are not so sure. It could be a Vegas sneaky reverse line trap sharp line move. Whatever that means. Gonna avoid choosing a side.
Conclusion
Official play: None
Lean: Over any number 61 or better.