Tayven Jackson has been excellent for North Texas, with the Mean Green producing a successful play on nearly 59% of their dropbacks. That said, he hasn't seen a defense like Tulsa's. Tulsa held Drew Mestemaker in check against Oklahoma State, and they're allowing just 15.3 points per game. Their 82.9 PFF coverage grade is a big reason why. The Mean Green's pass defense, meanwhile, has been leaky, allowing a successful play on over half of opponents' dropbacks. Baylor Hayes, back under center for Tulsa after an injury, should have an easy time getting into a rhythm. He'll also have one of the most efficient run games in the G6 working in his favor.
Clash of styles in this one. North Texas runs a spread offense and wants to play very fast. The Golden Hurricanes on the other hand, wants to run the ball and control the clock, playing conservatively. However, Tulsa’s starting quarterback, Baylor Hayes, is banged up and questionable to play. Even if he does, he won’t be 100%. The Mean Green’s offense is to explosiveness and with their up-tempo style, it might be difficult for Tulsa to keep them in check all game and trade points.
The weather in Tulsa Thursday night as they welcome North Texas is expected to be 73° with 6 mph winds and a 50% chance of rain. The key weather factor for this bet is the 6 mph wind, which on paper isn't a big deal. The total hasn't reacted much, from an opener of 58 down to 57.5. Tulsa has stayed under all four games, thanks to outstanding defense. They held Oklahoma State to only 10 points, and since that opener, OSU has beaten Oregon 39-31 and won at West Virginia last week, 41-24. They've covered in all three of their games since losing at Tulsa. This game stays under.
