Nick Temple

At just 5-10, 220 pounds, Temple is a quick and agile linebacker that is second on the team in tackles this season, first on the team for tackles for loss and second on the sacks.

The junior from Indianapolis is tough to defend and the SMU offensive line and running backs will have to account for him.

The Cincy defensive line helps Temple fight his way through the gaps to blow up plays and if SMU cannot control the front seven, it will be a long day for Garrett Gilbert.

Quarterback
Brendon Kay

Since taking over after Munchie Legaux’ injury, Kay has only gotten better for the Bearcats throwing for 300 yards or more in his last two starts.

Kay is 5-1 on the season as a starter for Cincy and is completing 72 percent of his passes for 1,709 yards and
14 touchdowns.

While the opponents he has faced are not that impressive, Kay has been extremely efficient and could have a big day against a struggling SMU pass defense.

Defensive lineman Silverberry Mourhon

Mourhon is a really solid lineman for the Bearcats, racking up 24 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks on the year.

His disruptive plays have been apparent in the passing game for opponents, with six hurries and a pass breakup.

Gilbert has had a lot of time to make plays the past few weeks, but if Mourhon can get into the backfield Gilbert may not be able to be as successful as he has been.

Running back
Ralph David Abernathy IV

The junior running back has been a solid back the Bearcats, averaging 4.16 yards per carry and posting three touchdowns on the year.

Abernathy has had an up-and-down campaign, but with Kay coming into his own, his carries have dwindled the last few weeks.

His 93 carries for 387 rushing yards lead the team and he continues to be the lead back for the Bearcats, but the rushing attack has taken a backseat to Kay this season.

Wide receiver
Shaq Washington

Washington is the second leading receiver on the team with 432 yards with 49 receptions, but Washington is also a threat in the punt return game, averaging 8.4 yards per return.

Washington doesn’t have any touchdowns on the season, but at 5-9, 174 pounds is a good option out of the slot for the Bearcats.