I don't trust either one of these offenses right now. Texas A&M has plenty of talent, but it runs its offense off a playbook as thick and obsolete as the Yellow Pages. There are no explosive plays, and too many questions at QB. Miami has posted great numbers, but largely against air, and the Aggies defense will be its biggest challenge by far. Plus, the Canes are likely to be without their top receiver, which won't help their case.

It’s bounce-back week for A&M. Even with last Saturday’s jaw-dropper against App State, the Aggies have lost only twice in non-SEC matchups since admittance to the conference. Their home-field edge is formidable, and the crowd will be revved for the late kickoff. Miami’s main pass target, WR Xavier Restrepo, is an injury scratch, leaving the team almost bare at the position. A&M is yielding a mere 3.9 yards per pass attempt, so the ‘Canes could find the end zone largely off-limits.

I love the Canes but simply don't think they are quite ready yet to win in this type of atmosphere (maybe next year the way Mario Cristobal is recruiting), even with the advantage at quarterback with Tyler Van Dyke. Frankly, Texas A&M losing last week at home to App State was the worst possible thing to happen to Miami's potential upset chances. Also think Jimbo Fisher might give LSU transfer Max Johnson a look under center: Maybe not as the starter, but if Haynes King is struggling again. Hey, I'm happy to be wrong here and if UM wins ... it may well cover 5.5, but I don't want to stress about it when I'm watching.