Don’t Miss Stanford vs Syracuse Week 4 CFB Clash
The excitement of college football is palpable as the Stanford Cardinal prepare to face off against the Syracuse Orange in a highly anticipated Week 4 matchup. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially with the Orange entering as 8.5-point home favorites. The game is set to kick off on September 20 at 7:30 p.m. ET at the JMA Dome in Syracuse, New York. Let’s dive into the details of this matchup, including the latest odds and predictions.
Stanford vs Syracuse Odds
As the teams gear up for this showdown, here’s a snapshot of the current odds:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanford | +8.5 (-110) | +255 | Over 57.5 (-115) |
| Syracuse | -8.5 (-110) | -320 | Under 57.5 (-105) |
As of September 18th, Stanford finds itself as an 8.5-point underdog heading into Syracuse. The total points for the game are set at 57.5, indicating expectations for a competitive and high-scoring affair.
Can Kyle McCord Keep Up His Hot Start?
One of the most intriguing storylines leading into this game is the performance of Syracuse’s quarterback, Kyle McCord. The former Ohio State Buckeye has made a significant impact in his first two games with the Orange. McCord has completed 59 of 85 passes (69.4%) for an impressive 735 yards, with eight touchdowns and just one interception. His standout performance against #23 Georgia Tech last week, where he threw for 381 yards and four touchdowns, showcased his potential as a future NFL quarterback.
McCord’s success can be attributed to his poise in the pocket and his ability to read defenses effectively. He has demonstrated remarkable arm strength, effortlessly launching the ball downfield. As noted by CBS Sports, “Fran Brown has unlocked him,” highlighting the coaching staff’s role in maximizing McCord’s talents. Moreover, the Orange defense has been formidable, allowing opponents to convert on just 36% of third downs this season, providing McCord with ample opportunities to shine.
It’s worth noting that Syracuse has been strong at home, boasting a 6-2 record against the spread (ATS) in their last eight games at the JMA Dome.
Stanford Aims to Build Momentum
On the other side of the field, the Stanford Cardinal are looking to turn their season around after a rocky start. They currently sit near the bottom of the ACC conference title odds, and for good reason. Stanford’s defense has struggled, giving up 457 total yards to TCU in their season opener. Quarterback Josh Hoover exploited the Cardinal’s defense, throwing for 353 yards and two touchdowns, while Stanford allowed a concerning 8-of-15 third-down conversions.
While Stanford secured a 41-7 victory over Cal Poly in Week 2, the win felt hollow given the opponent’s FCS status. Quarterback Ashton Daniels has shown flashes of promise, but he will need to elevate his game significantly to keep pace with Syracuse’s high-octane offense. Daniels has attempted only 389 passes in his three years at Stanford, which is a stark contrast to McCord’s prolific passing at Ohio State.
The Cardinal’s defense has struggled to contain opposing offenses, as evidenced by their PFF defensive coverage grade of 64.6. With Syracuse’s elite passing attack, which boasts a passing grade of 86.8, Stanford’s secondary will face a significant challenge. Historically, the Cardinal have struggled on the road, going 1-4 ATS in their last five games and 4-10 ATS in their last 14 road contests.
Stanford vs Syracuse Prediction
Given the current dynamics, the prediction leans heavily towards Syracuse. The Orange’s offensive prowess, led by McCord, is expected to exploit Stanford’s defensive vulnerabilities. With the Cardinal allowing nearly 280 passing yards per game, it’s likely that Syracuse will find success through the air.
For bettors, laying the points with Syracuse as 8.5-point favorites appears to be the smart move. The combination of McCord’s hot start and the Orange’s strong home performance makes them the team to watch in this matchup.
Stanford vs Syracuse Pick: Syracuse -8.5 (-110)
As the game approaches, fans and bettors alike will be eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying encounter between these two teams. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or placing your bets, this Week 4 clash is not to be missed!