The American Athletic Conference football schedules have been released, so the Bearcats are now clear on the path before them. Without further ado, here it is:
Saturday, September 5 – Alabama A&M (Nippert)
Saturday, September 12 – Temple (Nippert)
Saturday, September 19 – at Miami (OH)
Thursday, September 24 – at Memphis (ESPN)
Thursday, October 1 – Miami (FL) (Nippert) (ESPN)
Saturday, October 17 – at BYU
Saturday, October 24 – UConn (Nippert)
Saturday, October 31 – UCF (Nippert)
Saturday, November 7 – at Houston
Saturday, November 14 – Tulsa (Nippert)
Friday, November 21 – at USF
Saturday, November 28 – at East Carolina
Early observations are that we play two week night games on consecutive Thursdays, first against Memphis on the road and then against the Hurricanes at home. I am not a big fan of Thursday night games. Another thought, UC will have a long breather after the home game against the Canes, which should prove helpful in preparing for the game at BYU. Provo is a long way from Clifton.
The first three games UC plays should be easy games; however, the game against Memphis on the road the fourth game of the season will be a real test for Tuberville, Gunner Kiel, and company. If they can escape Memphis with a win, that should provide a shot of adrenaline in the arm for the all-too-important home match-up against Miami. In order to impress the voters, UC will have to perform well against the larger name brand schools like BYU and Miami.
As far as the conference schedule is concerned, getting wins at Memphis and East Carolina will be no easy task. However, with Gunner Kiel returning, I truly believe that this team has a chance to win them all this season. Am I too optimistic? Probably.