USF freshman QB Timmy McClain wasn't great in his last outing, but he moved the ball, made some good passes, managed the game and showed leadership against a good Houston defense in a 54-42 loss. Those were the most points the Bulls scored this season. Cincinnati has the mounting pressure of being undefeated, and the Bearcats have looked scared of losing and tentative in their past three (0-3 ATS).

The Bearcats are fortunate to be as high in the College Football Playoff rankings as they are after three straight bad performances, each worse than the one before. They are still undefeated though and need to send a message to the selection committee this week. South Florida provides Cincinnati with a good chance to send that message.

Despite a shaky showing last weekend, the Bearcats were able to move up in the CFP rankings. However, all throughout the week they were questioned with how they won their previous game. In this matchup they are facing an inconsistent South Florida offense. With the Bearcats defense -- combined with needing to win with style in order to impress the playoff committee -- I expect Cincinnati to not take its foot off of the gas against the Bulls.