Saturday features the latest edition of one of college football’s oldest yet rivalries. As Cincinnati Football hosts Miami (Ohio) Football for the Victory Bell. Several things define the leadup to this game for Cincinnati.

This is a chance to get last weekend’s blowout in Columbus out of their system. In hindsight, last week’s game practically went the way many expected it would. With the Cincinnati Bearcats being shutout 42-0 by Ohio State Football. This week presents an opportunity for the Bearcats to get back on track. While taking stock of the lessons from last week’s shellacking.

One area of concern for the Bearcats is their defensive struggles. Cincinnati’s defense hasn’t strongly impressed Bearcat fans and analysts yet. That perception could change a bit depending on how Saturday goes. Cincinnati’s defense was thoroughly whipped by Ohio State. That unit also had their share of issues against UCLA Football in Week 1.

Statistically, Cincinnati has the better offense going into Saturday’s game. Outpacing the Miami Redhawks 345-297 in total yards so far this season. A good day from Bearcats quarterback Desmond Ridder will help. The Redhawks defense against the passing game is vulnerable. Allowing 230 passing yards in their first two games compared to Cincinnati’s 197.

Cincinnati’s faced tougher matchups going into this week. Both previously facing Big Ten teams that were and are still in the AP Top 25 on the road. Cincinnati faced then No.5 Ohio State last week. While Miami faced then No.20 Iowa Football in Week 1. Miami fared better than Cincinnati; both lost but Miami at least avoided a shutout. Yet, Miami faced a less challenging home opener against Tennessee Tech Football. Compared to Cincinnati opening their home schedule against a power five UCLA team.

With that tough schedule in mind, there’s one thing Cincinnati needs to avoid this Saturday. Cincinnati can’t sleepwalk their way through Saturday’s game. They certainly shouldn’t be complacent after a rough Week 2. Sure, the Bearcats have won the last 13 consecutive battles for the Victory Bell. Yet, Miami has kept this rivalry game close in recent years.

Saturday’s 124th Battle for the Victory Bell starts at Noon on ESPNU at Cincinnati’s Nippert Stadium.