SMU vs Florida State Prediction, Odds, Start Time: Expert NCAAF Picks for Week 1
Action Network • • sports
Key Points:
- The SMU Mustangs will face the Florida State Seminoles on Monday, September 7, at 7:30 p.m. ET in Tallahassee, with SMU favored by 2.5 to 3 points and an over/under around 54 points.
- SMU enters the game healthy, led by quarterback Kevin Jennings, who had a strong 2025 season, and running back Kendrick Raphael, who brings 13 rushing touchdowns from Cal.
- Florida State struggled in Week 0 against New Mexico State, showing defensive vulnerabilities, poor tackling, and offensive pressure issues, despite a strong rushing performance from Ousmane Kromah.
- SMU's defense, including a strong secondary and anticipated aggressive pass rush, is expected to exploit Florida State's weaknesses, especially given the Seminoles' recent issues with explosive plays allowed.
- Historical trends favor SMU covering the spread in Week 1 games when facing opponents that played in Week 0, supporting the prediction that SMU will cover against Florida State.
