SMU's lightning-paced spread offense will test the Navy secondary, which was exposed against Notre Dame. Conversely, the SMU defense will have trouble getting stops against the powerful option attack. This sizable total actually looks a bit low for what appears destined to be a shootout.

Overall, SMU's rush defense has been good. It's allowing only 3.53 yards per carry, which you'd think bodes well for a matchup against an option team. The problem is that SMU's run defense is feast or famine and allows a lot of big runs. In fact, the rate at which SMU's defense allows runs of 20 yards or more ranks 102nd in the country. That's not a good thing against an option offense that pokes and prods looking for big play opportunities. Navy wins by a touchdown.