The University of Massachusetts Minutemen will host the University at Buffalo Bulls in a highly anticipated college football matchup on Saturday, October 29th, 2023, at McGuirk Alumni Stadium in Amherst, Massachusetts. Both teams enter the game with impressive records and aspirations for a postseason berth.
Preview of the Contest
UMass Minutemen
The UMass Minutemen, led by head coach Don Brown, have a 4-2 record so far this season, including a thrilling 31-28 victory over the Liberty Flames in their previous outing. Quarterback Gino Campiotti has been a key player for the Minutemen, throwing for 1,276 yards and nine touchdowns while rushing for an additional 259 yards. Running back Ellis Merriweather has also contributed significantly to the offense, averaging 5.6 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns.
On defense, UMass has allowed an average of 25.2 points per game and has recorded 10 sacks. Defensive end Bryce Watts has been a force, with four sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss. Cornerback Tyler Rudolph has also made his presence felt, with three interceptions and five pass breakups.
Buffalo Bulls
The Buffalo Bulls, coached by Maurice Linguist, have a 5-1 record this season, with their only loss coming to the No. 19-ranked Coastal Carolina Chanticleers. Quarterback Cole Snyder has led the Bulls’ offensive attack, throwing for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns, while running for 217 yards and six touchdowns. Running back Mike Washington has been a dependable runner, averaging 4.9 yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns.
The Bulls’ defense has been equally impressive, allowing just 19.0 points per game. Linebacker James Patterson has been a standout performer, with 43 tackles and three interceptions. Safety Jahmin Muse has also played a pivotal role, with 35 tackles and two interceptions.
Head-to-Head History
The UMass Minutemen and Buffalo Bulls have met only once before, in 2019, with Buffalo securing a 41-20 victory.
Betting Odds and Predictions
According to leading sportsbooks, the Buffalo Bulls are favored to win the game by 7.5 points. The over/under for the total points scored is set at 61.5.
Injury Report
UMass Minutemen
- Wide receiver Cameron Sullivan (questionable, undisclosed injury)
- Safety Nick Kargman (out, undisclosed injury)
Buffalo Bulls
- Linebacker Anthony Thompson (out, knee injury)
Key Factors to Consider
- Home-field advantage: UMass will benefit from playing on their home field in front of their fans.
- Offensive firepower: Both teams have potent offenses that are capable of scoring points in bunches.
- Defensive strength: The defenses of both teams have been solid this season, but Buffalo’s defense has been slightly more impressive.
- Coaching experience: Don Brown has a wealth of coaching experience at both the college and NFL levels, while Maurice Linguist is a younger coach who is still establishing himself.
Prediction
The UMass Minutemen and Buffalo Bulls are both evenly matched teams, but Buffalo’s slight edge on defense and the Bulls’ more experienced quarterback give them a narrow edge in this matchup.
Predicted Score: Buffalo Bulls 34, UMass Minutemen 28
Other Interesting Facts
- The UMass Minutemen have won their last three home games.
- The Buffalo Bulls have won their last four road games.
- The average attendance at UMass home games this season has been 15,222.
- The average attendance at Buffalo road games this season has been 20,567.
Conclusion
The UMass vs. Buffalo matchup is shaping up to be a thrilling contest between two teams with aspirations for postseason play. The game will feature explosive offenses and strong defenses, and it could go either way. While Buffalo is a slight favorite, UMass has the home-field advantage and the potential to pull off the upset.