The protection gap is why I like SMU -9.5 against Syracuse. The Mustangs have allowed 8 sacks through 7 games, compared with 16 for the Orange.
Kevin Jennings has completed 72.6% of his passes this season, and SMU averages 313.1 passing yards per game.
Kendrick Raphael ran for 104 yards against Cal last week. He now faces a Syracuse defense allowing 4.2 yards per carry this season.
Syracuse's line now faces a pass rush with 21 sacks through 7 games. Opponents have converted just 27 of 99 third downs against the Mustangs this season.
Last week, SMU scored touchdowns on its first 6 second-half drives against Cal and allowed only 50 yards after halftime, outscoring the Bears 42-0.