SMU vs. Louisville: Score prediction for college football Week 6 - Expert odds and picks for matchup

No. 22 Louisville is looking to rebound off a tough loss at Notre Dame and is still 3-1 on the season. But upset-minded SMU has been impressive in a 4-1 start. SMU running back Brashard Smith is perhaps one of the most underrated in the nation, with 509 yards and seven touchdowns already. UofL QB Tyler Shough is similarly an under-the-radar star with 11 touchdown passes on the year.

SMU vs. Louisville: Score Prediction for Week 6

SMU running back Brashard Smith is an underrated standout (Image Credit: IMAGN)

Louisville's offense has averaged 41.5 points per game on the season. Shough and the Cardinals are No. 13 nationally in passing efficiency, as the Cards pick up 297 passing yards per game. Opponents are gaining just 2.8 yards per carry against the Louisville defense. The Cardinals are generally a tough matchup at home.

But SMU is even more efficient offensively, putting up 42.2 ppg. SMU averages almost 206 yards rushing per game, largely on the strength of the underrated Smith. The Mustang pass defense has been tough, allowing 10 touchdowns but making nine interceptions.

Score Prediction: Louisville 31, SMU 24

SMU vs. Louisville Point Spread

The Cardinals are a seven-point home favorite. The over/under of 56 seems to reflect expectations of a high-scoring shootout between these teams. Given SMU's sturdy running game and the big-play ability of Louisville's passing, that number might be too low.

SMU vs. Louisville: Betting tips

Mustangs QB Kevin Jennings is at +150 to score a touchdown in the game. A solid athlete, Jennings has had nine or more carries in each of the last three games, so that might be worth consideration. Smith is at +175 to reach 100 yards on the ground, which he has done in three of the last four games.

Louisville receiver Caullin Lacy is back from injury and is at +100 to score a touchdown in the game. Not a bad play here. Shough is at +210 to hit 300 yards, which is not an uncommon occurrence for the Cardinals at home.

What time is the SMU vs. Louisville game on?

The SMU versus Louisville game will be played at noon Eastern. It will be broadcast on ESPN. Bob Wischusen and Louis Riddick will handle the broadcast.

Are you excited for this big Week 6 matchup? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.