Cincinnati Football: 3 takeaways from big win over SMU in Week 12

Nov 20, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats defensive lineman Curtis Brooks (92) reacts after sacking Southern Methodist Mustangs quarterback Tanner Mordecai (not pictured) in the first half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /

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3. Cincinnati is still struggling to run the ball

One of the things that Cincinnati has struggled to do this season is run the football consistently. They did not run the ball well against SMU and that might be a slight concern for if they have to face a good defensive front in the future.

The Bearcats put up some garbage time stats late in the game when it was out of hand, but starting back Jerome Ford had 19 carries for only 82 yards and that is not going to be good enough.

The offensive line for the Bearcats has struggled this season and that is the biggest weakness for the team. I expect the Bearcats to try and focus on running the ball in the next few weeks and try to improve it. This team has talented backs and they each carry big-play ability.

Cincinnati is going to have to be a more complete offense for this team to be a serious threat if they were to make the playoff or play in a big bowl game.

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