Week 5: vs. UCF
Score Prediction: UC 35 UCF 30
Cincinnati hasn’t won against UCF since 2015. Last year UC traveled down to Orlando to play the Knights at home with College Game day in attendance. UCF isn’t going to make this game easy for UC, they have QB Brandon Wimbush, a Notre Dame transfer with tons of talent, as the favorite to be the starter for them this season since McKenzie Melton is out for the season. UCF is going to be a tough game to start conference play with because they haven’t lost a regular season game in two years, but I think UC is capable of winning. A key to this game is not giving up the big plays like they did last season. This game has the potential to determine who will win the East Division of the AAC and to be a Top 25 matchup.
Week 6: at Houston
Score Prediction: UC 28 UH 14
Cincinnati and Houston haven’t played in two years, but the last time they did Houston beat Cincinnati 40-16. Last season, Houston tied for first in the West Division and this season they were picked to finish in the top half of the conference. Again, Houston hasn’t faced this Bearcats team before and it very difficult to scout a team you have never played against before with a new coach and a new system.
Week 7: vs. Tulsa
Score Prediction: UC 28 Tulsa 7
This game is going to have a great home crowd because it is the celebration of the 2009 Big East Champion team. Tulsa had a record of 3-9 last season overall and 2-6 in conference play. I think this game is very winnable for the Bearcats and be a good way to enter their BYE week.
Week 8: BYE
