The Cincinnati Bearcats host the Miami RedHawks at TQL Stadium on Sept. 19 in the Battle for the Victory Bell. The Bearcats lead the rivalry 61-60-7.
Here are bold predictions for the 129th game between the two local rivals:
UC Bearcats RB Gi'Bran Payne will again surpass 100 yards
Payne became the first Bearcat since Corey Kiner to have back-to-back games over the century mark with his efforts vs. Boston College and Western Carolina. He can join Kiner as having three straight if he does it again. Kiner finished his UC career with 100-plus-yard games vs. Iowa State, Kansas State and TCU to finish with 1,153 yards in 2024.
"I've never had four running backs score in one game," Milon said of the Western Carolina game where Payne scored twice with Cole Tabb, Zion Johnson and Zylan Perry also finding the end
zone.
UC QB JC French IV will throw for 200+ yards with 0 sacks
The fifth-year player has run for three touchdowns and thrown for three. He's had 16 games in his career where he threw for more than 200 yards, including four games over 300. He may not need to reach 300 with UC's run game. Sack-wise, he was dumped 29 times a year ago, but just once so far as a Bearcat.
"It's night and day," French said. "Last game I had all the time in the world back there to see the defense."
UC Bearcats defense will record 3 sacks
Miami's given up only two sacks in two games, and McComb has yet to throw an interception. If UC's sideline is hoisting defensive coordinatorNate Woody's broadaxe, a multiple-sack game might take place. Or, some fumbles.
"During the offseason, Coach Woody really emphasized punching at the ball," UC linebacker Coleman said. "It's great to see coming to life during the games."
Cincinnati Bearcats vs. Miami RedHawks final score
In the preseason game-by-game predictions, I favored UC 31-24. After two games of observation, I'm going to alter that somewhat, with the Bearcats winning by 17, 34-17.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Bold predictions for Cincinnati Bearcats vs. Miami RedHawks
