BYU vs. UCF Prediction: Week 8 Odds, Picks & Best Bet (Oct. 24)

Our BYU vs. UCF prediction for Week 8 includes our best bet, projected score, and the latest odds for Saturday's matchup.
UCF Knights quarterback Keyone Jenkins (12) rolls out looking for an open receiver as he is featured in our BYU vs. UCF prediction.
Pictured: UCF Knights quarterback Keyone Jenkins (12) rolls out looking for an open receiver as he is featured in our BYU vs. UCF prediction. Photo by Ron Lane-Cal Sport Media/Sipa USA
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The Big 12 features its top-ranked undefeated program on the road against a stout defense for my latest BYU vs. UCF prediction.

No. 2 BYU just knocked off No. 4 Notre Dame to stay undefeated with a gritty 28-24 win. Now, the Cougars hit the road to take on the Knights, laying -6.5 points ahead of Saturday's 3:30 p.m. ET kickoff from Acrisure Bounce House in Orlando, Fla. (FOX). 


BYU vs. UCF picks & predictions

See all of our experts' college football picks for Week 8 based on the latest college football odds.

Pick Odds Bet size
UCF +6.5  (-102 via BetMGM) 2.04 units to profit 2.00 units
Under 43.5  (-110 via bet365) 1.10 to profit 1.00 units

Picks submitted: Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. ET. Odds subject to change.

Total wagered: 3.14 units | Max profit: +3.00 units

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BYU vs. UCF prediction & best bet

Check out all of our college football predictions for more analysis across this week's slate.

UCF +6.5 (-102 via BetMGM)

UCF is adjusting to life with QB1 Keyone Jenkins under center. Jenkins is set to make his fourth start of the season, coming off a season-best 265 yards and 4 touchdowns against Oklahoma State in his last outing. 

The Knights have moved from +9.5 down to +6.5, so we're getting UCF at a premium. However, what we're really banking on here is the defensive talent under head coach Scott Frost.

UCF ranks 50th in the FBS for points allowed, giving up 21.7 per game. The Knights have had a week off to rest and practice for their biggest matchup of the season at home against BYU. 

UCF has allowed only 2 passing touchdowns against 4 Big 12 opponents. They are also holding rushers to a stingy 3.2 YPC. 

Following an emotional win over Notre Dame, BYU winning by a touchdown on the road against a good defense looks like a trap. 

The forecast calls for winds at 17 mph and a 40 percent probability of rain. This feels like a low-scoring, defensive grind, with BYU scoring 28 or fewer points against Notre Dame and other conference opponents. 

Bet UCF +6.5 at -102 odds on BetMGM. 

📡 SBR Edge: U-Knighted We Stand

The Knights are 3-0 ATS at home in Acrisure Bounce House in 2026. 

Frost's Defense Gives BYU A Scare in Orlando

If Scott Frost's team is going to win this game, it's going to be through defense. UCF can go toe-to-toe with BYU in this regard, holding all Big 12 opponents to 3.5 YPC or less. 

BYU likes to establish the run. QB Bear Bachmeier has only thrown 3 touchdowns in his last 4 starts, leaning on his legs to find the end zone. It's going to be tough sledding for him and the Cougars' run game in Orlando. 

Play to: UCF +4.5 

Score prediction: BYU 23, UCF 20


Live BYU vs. UCF odds

See the latest odds movement and more on our BYU vs. UCF matchup page.

BYU vs. UCF opening odds

  • Moneyline: BYU -295 | UCF +235
  • Spread: BYU -9.5 (+100) | UCF +9.5 (-120)
  • Over/Under: Over 45.5 (-105) | Under 45.5 (-115)

BYU vs. UCF weather

The forecast in Orlando on Saturday afternoon calls for warm temperatures at 77 degrees. However, 17.7 mph winds and a 41 probability of precipitation may create difficult passing and kicking conditions. 


Latest BYU vs. UCF injuries

  • UCF QB Alonzo Barnett III - out
  • UCF TE Dylan Wade - questionable

How to watch BYU vs. UCF: Week 8

  • Date: Saturday, Oct. 24
  • Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: Acrisure Bounce House (Orlando, Fla.)
  • TV/Streaming: FOX