As Week 9 of the 2025 College Football season approaches, Baylor Bears are set to travel to Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, for a Saturday afternoon game against the Cincinnati Bearcats. The game is slated for October 25, 2025, at 4:00 PM and will be aired on ESPN. Both teams are members of the Big 12 Conference, adding an extra layer of intensity to this contest.
The Baylor Bears enter this game with a 4-3 overall record, including a 2-2 record in conference play. Despite their recent setback against TCU, where they narrowly lost 42-36, Baylor has shown a strong road presence this season with a 2-1 record away from home. Their offensive capabilities have been highlighted by significant passing yardage in recent games.
On the other hand, the Cincinnati Bearcats have had an impressive season so far, boasting a 6-1 record and remaining unbeaten in conference play at 4-0. Ranked #21 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, Cincinnati’s recent triumph over Oklahoma State, winning 49-17, showcased their ability to dominate both offensively and defensively. With a solid 4-1 record at home, the Bearcats are looking to continue their winning streak.
Cincinnati vs Baylor At a Glance
- Game Details: Week 9 of the 2025 Regular Season — Baylor Bears vs. Cincinnati Bearcats
- Venue: Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati, OH — Outdoor Field
- Broadcast: Watch live on ESPN
- Cincinnati’s Record: 6-1 overall, 4-1 at home
- Baylor’s Record: 4-3 overall, 2-1 on the road
- Game Odds: Cincinnati favored by 5.5 points with a total over/under of 67.5
Cincinnati Bearcats: Ready for the Baylor Challenge
Offensive Performance
The Cincinnati Bearcats have demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities this season, scoring 265 points, which ranks them 13th nationally. Their passing game, led by Brendan Sorsby, has accumulated 1,827 yards, placing them 39th in the nation. On the ground, the Bearcats have rushed for 1,304 yards, ranking 41st, showcasing a balanced offensive approach.
Last season, the Bearcats managed to score 302 points, ranking 76th, indicating significant improvement in their offensive output this year. The rushing attack, which was ranked 55th last season with 2,229 yards, has seen a drop in national ranking but remains a pivotal part of their strategy.
Defensive Strengths
Cincinnati’s defense has been formidable, particularly in forcing turnovers and pressuring the quarterback. They have recorded 16 sacks, which ranks 13th, and have been highly effective at intercepting passes, ranking 2nd with 1 interception. The team also ranks 6th in fumbles recovered with 4, highlighting their knack for capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.
Compared to last season, the Bearcats have improved defensively, having allowed only 132 points against, a significant reduction from the 295 points allowed last year. Their ability to maintain defensive pressure and create opportunities will be crucial in upcoming games.
Recent Performance
The Bearcats are coming off a commanding 49-17 victory over Oklahoma State, highlighting their current form. In this game, they effectively balanced their offensive attack, achieving 270 passing yards and 157 rushing yards.
In previous weeks, Cincinnati secured wins against UCF, Iowa State, and Kansas, showcasing consistency. Their ability to adapt their strategy to different opponents has been a key factor in their unbeaten streak this season.
Key Players
Quarterback Brendan Sorsby has been instrumental, leading the team with 1,718 passing yards and 17 touchdowns, ranking him 33rd nationally in passing yards. Running back Evan Pryor has contributed significantly with 412 rushing yards, while Cyrus Allen leads the receiving corps with 331 yards and 7 touchdowns.
On the defensive side, the Bearcats rely on their dynamic front line to apply pressure and create turnovers. This balance of offensive firepower and defensive prowess makes them a well-rounded team.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 25-5 (83.3%) over the last 30 games
- SU – All Games: 6-0 (100.0%) in the last 6 games
- SU – After Win: 5-0 (100.0%) in the last 5 games
- SU – Totals ≥ 50: 5-0 (100.0%) in the last 5 games
- SU – Home Games: 4-0 (100.0%) in the last 4 games
- O/U – Away Games: 3-0 (100.0%) in the last 3 games
- O/U – All Games: 5-1 (83.3%) in the last 6 games
Baylor Bears Prepare for Battle Against Cincinnati
Offensive Overview
The Baylor Bears are heading into this game with an impressive passing game, ranking 1st in passing yards this season with 2,410 yards. They have also scored 254 points, placing them 18th in scoring offense nationwide. However, their rushing attack has been less effective, ranking 81st with 994 yards.
Quarterback Sawyer Robertson has been a standout, leading the nation with 2,376 passing yards and 21 touchdowns. His connection with receivers has been instrumental in Baylor’s offensive success. The Bears have shown a strong ability to move the chains, with 183 first downs, ranking 3rd in the country.
Defensive Challenges
Baylor’s defense has struggled this season, allowing 220 points, ranking 119th in the nation. Despite these struggles, their pass rush has been effective, recording 7 sacks and ranking 22nd. The defense has also been opportunistic, with 5 interceptions and 2 fumbles recovered.
In their recent game against TCU, the defense faced challenges, giving up 42 points. The Bears will need to tighten up defensively to contend with Cincinnati’s offense. Addressing these defensive issues will be crucial for Baylor to succeed on the road.
Key Players to Watch
Bryson Washington has been a key player in Baylor’s rushing attack, accumulating 580 yards and 6 touchdowns. Although their rushing game ranks 81st, Washington’s individual efforts have been noteworthy. Receiver Josh Cameron is another player to watch, with 40 receptions for 542 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Tight end Michael Trigg adds versatility to the offense with 32 receptions, 495 yards, and 4 touchdowns. His contributions have been essential in Baylor’s high-ranking passing game. These players will be pivotal against the Bearcats’ defense.
Injury Concerns
The Bears are dealing with several injuries, notably on the defensive side, with linebacker Phoenix Jackson out for the season. Safety Devin Turner is also out with a torn ACL, impacting their defensive depth. These injuries could play a role in the team’s performance against Cincinnati.
Additionally, the Bears have several players listed as questionable, which could affect their lineup. The team will need to rely on depth and adaptability to overcome these challenges.
Betting Trends
- O/U – As Underdog: Last 7 Games (2024–2025) → 6-0-1 (85.7%)
- O/U – Away Games: Last 18 Games (2022–2025) → 15-3 (83.3%)
- O/U – After Loss: Last 5 Games (2024–2025) → 5-0 (100.0%)
- O/U – All Games: Last 16 Games (2024–2025) → 12-3-1 (75.0%)
Baylor is a 5.5-point underdog with a total set at 67.5 points for this matchup. Their recent trends show a strong inclination towards the over, especially in away games and after a loss. Bettors might find value in these trends when considering their wagers for this game.
Cincinnati vs Baylor Prediction: Over 67.5
The matchup between Cincinnati and Baylor sets the stage for a high-scoring game. Cincinnati’s offense has been particularly effective, scoring 49 points in their recent win over Oklahoma State. On the other side, Baylor’s defense has struggled, giving up 220 points this season, ranked 119th in the nation.
Both teams have shown the capability to put up points, with Cincinnati averaging 265 points this season and Baylor closely following with 254. Additionally, their previous encounter ended with a total of 61 points, suggesting a potential for another high-scoring game. Considering these factors, the over is a favorable play at 67.5.
Historically, Cincinnati has been involved in high-scoring games, going 5-1 on the over in their last six games. With a strong offensive unit, they are likely to continue this trend, especially playing at home where they have been dominant this season.
With both offenses ranking in the top 20 nationally, and considering Cincinnati’s recent scoring spree, it’s likely that this game could exceed the set total. Expect a projected score around Cincinnati 42 – Baylor 35, surpassing the 67.5 total line.
- Cincinnati vs Baylor Prediction: Over 67.5
- Cincinnati vs Baylor Score: Cincinnati 42 – Baylor 35
