Cincinnati Bearcats @ Syracuse Orange (-15) Pick & Preview: The Bearcats have shot up to #7 in the Country during their undefeated run to start the season. They’ve climbed on Tony Pike’s back for some early victories, as the big tall signal caller impressed in wins over Rutgers and Oregon State. With Pike out for the last two, the Bearcats have relied more on the run. However, sophomore QB Zach Collaros has shown accuracy, hitting big passing plays while making moves with his feet. Cincinnati’s best wins are Oregon State and South Florida. They are 5-2 ATS this season, and the Under has won in 4 of their last 5 games.

Syracuse has been mediocre, a huge upswing from last year’s brutal season. New quarterback transfer, Greg Paulus, the former Duke Blue Devil point guard, has been solid. He’s thrown 9 touchdowns to 10 interceptions, but after 4 seasons away from the football field, he’s been asked to do a lot for the Orange, and he’s competed admirably. One thing Syracuse has been able to do is run. The Leadership in Syracuse is improved, and you can see it with effort all over the field – that springs the run game.

I’m taking Syracuse here because I think they can run on Cincinnati a little bit. The Orange can compete, and I think they keep it close.