College Football Betting News and Notes Saturday, September 13

Week 2 Review
By Dave Cokin

Quick takes from Saturday’s big college slate, with comments on selected games:

Kansas State somehow gave up 28 straight points to Iowa State but recovered to escape with a 32-28 win. I’d put more faith in K-State’s second half than their first, and while it’s not a misleading final, I won’t be significantly downgrading the Wildcats.

Toledo was a popular sharp play, but the Rockets were down a couple of cornerbacks and Maty Mauk made them pay as Missouri romped. This game was 35-7 before the teams just started trading, so it goes down as an impressive win for the Tigers.

Arkansas State gave Tennessee a decent game, but hurt themselves with penalties. This was not a great spot for the Vols, so the fact they won convincingly enough is a positive.

Penn Statev figured to perhaps be sloppy after the Ireland excursion, so the fact they got a test from an improving Akron squad was not surprising.

Huge win for Central Michigan, which looms as a MAC contender this season. Purdue went backwards off the Western Michigan win, and it’s tough to envision the Boilermakers avoiding another very rough campaign in conference.

Broken record time. If you throw the ball 80% of the time, you’re not that tough to defense unless the QB is sensational. SMU was absolutely terrible in a very embarrassing blowout loss to North Texas. The Mean Green racked up a ridiculous amount of penalty yards, meaning this could have been even uglier than it already was.

Army finished up with just an eight point win over Buffalo, but that was misleading as the visitors scored the final 22 points to make it respectable. The Cadets got sloppy with the big lead and actually had to play some defense late, but it’s still a good win for Army.

Western Kentucky was up six heading into the final stanza at Illinois. But a big play on offense and a pick-six turned the tide. Important win for beleaguered Illini coach Tim Beckman.

Navy held off a late charge and wild last play to escape with the win at Temple. The Midshipmen have had fourth quarter issues in each of their first two games. The Owls had some execution issues in this game and just weren’t sharp off the impressive win over Vanderbilt.

New Mexico State won a last team with the ball battle at Georgia State. Wins figure to be few and far between for both these entries.

Mississippi State got the win against UAB, but the Bulldogs got burned by three long distance scores in the process. UAB shouldn’t feel too bad about this loss, while Miss State knows it cannot afford to give up this many big plays if they want to win in the SEC.

Kent State made it interesting in the second half against South Alabama. But the Golden Flashes are not looking good offensively, and they need to tighten up the rush defense as well.

Colorado escaped with the win at UMass. But the fact the Buffaloes were down 11 midway through the third quarter against a pretty weak offense is alarming. Considering the offensive talent in the PAC-12, this cannot bode well for CU.

Maryland won despite being an incredible -5 in net turnovers. This was a bad offensive game for the Terrapins. Good thing South Florida has little to attack with, or this surely would have been an upset win for the Bulls.

Northern Illinois won with defense at Northwestern. They stuffed the Wildcats running game all day long. Rough start to the season for this Big 10 squad, but at least they’ve got plenty of company in that conference.

Jake Rudock came alive late as Iowa avoided getting stunned by Ball State. The Hawkeyes dominated the stats in this game and really shouldn’t have had as much trouble as they did here.

Stanford just gave away the game against USC. The Cardinal were at the USC 35 or better on every possession throughout the game and incredibly scored only 10 points. Credit the Trojans for finding a way to win this and feel free to criticize Stanford coach David Shaw for simply staying too conservative once again. Bad loss for Stanford.

Middle Tennessee got the cover at Minnesota, but the favorite was the much better squad when it mattered. David Cobb enjoyed a huge game for the Golden Gophers, who simply eased up in allowing the Blue Raiders to slip through the back door.

Georgia Tech got off to a very shaky start at Tulane, but the Yellow Jackets put it together in the second half on defense. Nevertheless, Georgia Tech looks even more one-dimensional than ever, and that’s going to get them beat when they face quality opposition.

NC State looks like the lousiest 2-0 team in the country. The Wolfpack had loads of trouble against a bottom tier team for the second straight week and if they win their next two against beatable opponents, they will simply then be the worst 4-0 team in the country. Old Dominion is not your typical first year FBS squad.

Michigan State had Oregon on the ropes for a good portion of the game, but the Ducks simply blew this open in the fourth quarter. The Ducks spread win was a bit fluky, but they’re a monster. Despite the loss, the Spartans look like the best team in the Big 10 right now.

Louisiana Tech romped as a double digit dog at UL Lafayette. The Bulldogs scored on a 99 yard run on the first play from scrimmage and this was worse than the final stats might indicate.

East Carolina threw a scare into South Carolina for awhile, but the Gamecocks eventually started shredding the Pirates in the trenches. That said, if not for a couple unforced errors on offense, ECU might have had a legit shot at the upset.

UL-Monroe looked like they’d coast up 21-7 but Idaho wouldn’t go away. The home team managed to escape with the win thanks to a last minute TD drive. This was a bit of a sandwich spot for Monroe and it showed.

Notre Dame closed out the long series with Michigan with its most lopsided result in the history of the rivalry. The Irish could not run the football at all, but it didn’t matter as the Wolverines were hopelessly inept on offense. Brady Hoke is officially on the hot seat in Ann Arbor.

BYU looks like a legit power this season, and the Cougars simply manhandled Texas for the second straight season. Not that David Ash is a great college QB, but there’s nothing behind him right now for the Longhorns.

Virginia Tech served notice they’re back on the national scene with a strong performance at Ohio State. The Buckeyes have a problem at QB and they’re actually a little fortunate to not be 0-2. The Hokies have a nice team and QB Brewer, while not particularly gifted physically, is a big upgrade from Logan Thomas.

San Diego State let one get away at Chapel Hill. The Aztecs outplayed North Carolina, but the Tar Heels proved to be opportunistic and perhaps a little lucky as well. SDSU can be a player in the MWC this season, but they need to cut down on the crucial turnovers.

UCLA is 2-0 and they’ve impressed exactly nobody with the narrow wins against Virginia and Memphis. The Bruins have a murderous schedule ahead of them and barring immediate improvement the losses are going to happen. Memphis might be a better team than I assumed prior to the start of the season.

Air Force flat out blew the game at Wyoming. They lost a TD on a penalty, another huge gain on a penalty, missed a shortish FG, took a bad gamble on a fourth quarter 4th down and then fell apart on defense on the final Wyoming drive. Coach Troy Calhoun also wasted two time outs that he should have saved. Bad loss for the Falcons in a game they should have won.

Boise State crushed Colorado State in a game not nearly as competitive as the final score might indicate. The Rams have plenty of fight and made this interesting from a spread standpoint, but the game itself was no contest.

Oregon State was up big at Hawaii before the Rainbow Warriors rallied to get inside the number and actually within one possession. Hawaii did this a few times last season as well, so it’s clear this is a team that does not quit. Good game for the Beavers, who coasted with the 38-7 lead, and hopefully learned a bit of a lesson in the process.

UTEP barely missed the upset against Texas Tech, and if the Miners were just a little more accurate through the air, they’d have won this game. The Red Raiders had real issues stopping the run again this week, and this looms as a serious problem heading toward conference play.

College Football: Streaks, Tips, Notes
Sportspic.com

Georgia Bulldogs at South Caroline Gamecocks

A shaky South Carolina squad (0-2 ATS) smacked 52-28 as a 9.5 point home favorite in their season opener against Texas A&M then barely held on this past week defeating East Carolina 33-23 dropping the loot as 14 point home faves. Meanwhile, Bulldogs are coming off a bye after demolishing Clemson 45-21 easily cashing as 10-point home chalks. Gamecocks have been the right choice for bettor's in the series as they've cashed 5 of the last 7 meetings (5-1-1 ATS) and 9 of 14 (9-3-2 ATS) encounters with Bulldogs. Gamecocks have looked awful so far especially on the defense end giving up a whopping 416 passing, 150.5 rushing yards/game. However, with one of the best coaches in the game (Spurrier) the Gamecocks will find a way to contain Bulldogs making them a good choice as 6-point underdogs. Keep in mind, Gamecocks have won 19 of their last 20 at Williams-Brice Stadium (12-8 ATS) and are 4-1 ATS as home underdogs. Georgia has struggled cashing vs conference opponents (1-5 ATS) and have been horrible bets on the road (2-6-1 ATS).

Tennessee Volunteers at Oklahoma Sooners

The SEC takes on the Big 12 this Saturday, as Tennessee Volunteers (2-0, 1-1 ATS) visit Oklahoma Sooners (2-0, 1-1 ATS). Volunteers have been relatively efficient on offense this campaign scoring 36 points/game behind QB Worley's 260 passing yards/game, 5 TD's, 1 interception and it's ground game churning out 139 rushing yards/game with 3 majors. On the other side of the ball Volunteers hold their own allowing 13.0 PPG on 167 passing, 120.5 rushing yards/game. Oklahoma offense has had its way against a pair of inferior foes averaging 50 PPG on 508 yards/contest. QB Trevor Knight has completed 58.8 % of his passes for 552 yards, 3 TD's and 1 pick. Stoops' troops have amassed 222 rushing yards/game 9 TD's with the RB trio of Ford, Ross, Perine doing most of the damage producing 8 TD's on an average 6.4 yards per carry. Sooners are allowing 11.5 PPG on 212.5 passing and a messily 74 rushing yards/game. Butch Jones and his Tennessee team face a tough test at Oklahoma and are significant underdog for a reason (+20.5). Vols are just 2-12 SU the last fourteen on the road (5-8-1 ATS), 0-20 SU overall last twenty as underdogs (8-11-1 ATS), 0-7 SU, 1-6 ATS L3Y's taking 15 or more points losing by an average 32.7 PPG.

UCLA Bruins at Texas Longhorns

Bruins are 2-0 straight-up but haven’t covered in either game, including Saturday’s 42-35 win over Memphis spotting Tigers 22 points at home. Could be a good spot for UCLA backers to recoup lost cash. The Longhorns off an embarrassing 41-7 home loss to Brigham Young as a one-point favorite are a mess. Texas has a slew of injuries on the O-line and QB David Ash is still out. The easy answer here is take UCLA who have cashed 7-of-10 non-conference games while Longhorns enter 6-12 ATS as underdogs including 2-5 ATS at home.

Big Ten Report - Week 3
By ASAWins.com

GAME OF THE WEEK

Penn State (-3.5) @ Rutgers

PSU & Rutgers open up B1G conference play on Saturday in Rutgers. For the Scarlet Knights, it's their first conference game as a member of the conference. Rutgers is 2-0 heading into this week with wins over Washington State and FCS Howard. The Knights are led by QB Nova (31-of-46 for 563 yards, 6 TD, 1 INT) and RB James (216 rush yards on 5.1 YPC with 4 TD). Nova, James, and the rest of this offense will have their first difficult test against PSU's defense; a unit that ranks 4th against the run, 15th in overall defense, and 25th in scoring defense. Rutgers' defensive numbers aren't very good at this point in the season after allowing 538 yards to Washington State and 427 to FCS Howard. The Knights will have to clean things up on defense as PSU's QB Hackenberg is on his way to a breakout campaign. The sophomore already has 773 pass yards (65.1%) with 4 TD & 4 INT. The Nittany Lions were able to avoid a letdown performance in a 21-3 win over Akron after coming home from a week one game in Dublin. Motivation won't be lacking for either side as we expect Rutgers to be fired up for their first home conference game in a primetime setting. On the other side, PSU got some good news this week that the NCAA released the ban on postseason play - meaning the Nittany Lions will be eligible for a bowl this year. Not that the Nittany Lions weren't playing with high-intensity before, but that news certainly won't hurt the motivation going forward. Penn State is 15-8 SU in the last 23 Big Ten road games, but just 1-4 SU & ATS in the last 5. PSU is 7-0 SU & 5-2 ATS in the last seven games against Rutgers, but the last meeting was in 1995. Rutgers is just 2-7 ATS in the last nine home games.

BEST OF THE REST

Iowa (-13.5) vs. Iowa State

Is it time to be concerned about performance of the Hawkeyes? They knew they were going to get a tough battle from FCS Northern Iowa in week one, but still only escaped with an eight-point win. Then last week they barely squeaked by at home against Ball State. QB Rudock threw two TD in the final 2:52 to give Iowa the 17-13 win. Arguably the most concerning aspect of Iowa's season so far is the inability to effectively run the ball. The Hawks rank 97th in rushing with just 132 YPG. Things won't get any easier as star LT, and likely top draft pick, Brandon Scherff is out indefinitely with a knee injury. Jake Rudock has posted solid numbers (572 yards on 68.8% with 4 TD and 0 INT), but Iowa needs to run it better. Solid defense and adequate QB play can take this team only so far. As ordinary as Iowa has been so far, they're in a much better position than rival Iowa State. ISU is already 0-2 after losses to FCS North Dakota State and conference rival Kansas State. The offense has been abysmal. QB Richardson has just 1 TD and 3 INT while top RB Wimberly has just 75 yards on 23 carries. They rank near the bottom of every major offensive statistical category. The defensive unit hasn't been much better as the Cyclones rank 121st against the rush, 68th against the pass, 110th in total yards allowed, and 100th in PPG allowed. This rivalry is split 7-7 since 2000 and Iowa State is 10-4 ATS over that span. Nine of those 14 matchups have been decided by 10 points or less, including three straight meetings by a total of just 12 points. Iowa is 0-2 ATS this season, failing to cover as a double-digit favorite in both of its games. ISU is 0-2 SU, but covered as a double-digit underdog against a solid Kansas State team last week.

Minnesota (+14) @ TCU

Minnesota will take a big step up in competition this week as they visit TCU after home dates with FCS Eastern Illinois and Middle Tennessee State. Minnesota QB Mitch Leidner sprained his MCL against MTSU last week and his status remains uncertain. Leidner's strength is his ability to run from the QB position; if this sprain has a negative effect on his rushing ability, expect the Gophers to go with backup QB Chris Streveler. Streveler, the redshirt freshman, has thrown one pass in his career. Minnesota's strength is in the rushing attack. David Cobb rushed for 220 yards in last week's win over MTSU and the Gophers now rank 30th in rush YPG through two weeks. Expect TCU to stack the box this weekend in an attempt to make the Gophers beat them through the air. TCU had last week off after a blowout win over FCS Samford in week one. The Horned Frogs wracked up a +412 yard advantage and +24 first downs in the 48-14 blowout win. TCU returned 16 starters from last year's squad and this defense has the potential to be really, really good. Offensively QB Boykin leads the way along with a stable of solid running backs and experienced receivers. They'll give Minnesota's defense - which has looked vulnerable - their toughest test of the season to date. Dating back to 2007, the Gophers are 22-10 ATS as an underdog of 10-points or more - includes a 13-7 ATS record on the road. Minnesota is 13-3 SU & 12-4 ATS in the last 16 road openers. TCU is 3-8 ATS in the last 11 home games and just 0-3 ATS since 2004 against Big Ten squads.

Maryland (-3) vs. West Virginia

Maryland may have switched conferences, but their rivalry with West Virginia still stands strong. The Terps ended a seven-game losing streak to the Mountaineers with last year's 37-0 shutout victory. The 37-point margin of victory was the largest in this series since 1951! Maryland's 2013 season unraveled after that win, but they'll look to repeat the formula with another win over West Virginia on Saturday. The Terps had a closer-than-expected matchup with South Florida last week. They used a blocked punt return for TD in the 4th quarter to propel them to a seven-point victory - failing to cover as the 11-point favorite. Maryland managed just 116 rush yards on 2.9 YPC and they turned the ball over six times; but credit to the defense for holding USF's offense down the stretch and getting the win on the road. QB C.J. Brown has had a rough-go of it so far in 2014. He's completing just 53.8% with 3 TD and 2 INT despite having one of the top WR corps to throw to. Brown will have to clean up his game as the competition level goes up in this rivalry matchup with WVU. West Virginia wasn't supposed to stick with Alabama in week one, but the Mountaineers made a ball-game of it, never trailing by more than 10 points and cutting the lead to seven points in the 4th quarter. There was no hangover in week two as WVU trounced FCS Towson 54-0. QB Clint Trickett leads the way in this explosive offense. Trickett has 713 pass yards on 75.3% completions with 3 TD and 0 INT so far. He spreads the wealth nicely as three receivers already have 10 catches. Trickett didn't play in last year's blowout loss to Maryland, but this offense will be motivated to make some noise after the Terps held them scoreless. The Terps are just 1-6 SU & 2-5 ATS in the last seven meetings, going 0-3 SU & ATS at home over that span (-11.6 PPG). Maryland is 9-22 ATS in the last 29 as a home favorite. West Virginia is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 as a road underdog.

Illinois (+14.5) @ Washington

Credit the Illini for coming from behind yet again to get a win; but needing to come-from-behind in two straight weeks at home against FCS Youngstown State and Western Kentucky is a bit concerning. Wes Lunt continues to put up huge numbers and appears to be a strong fit for Bill Cubit's offense. Lunt now has 741 yards (67%) with 7 TD and just 1 INT. Lunt has had to be "the man" in the offense since the rushing attack isn't making a huge impact. RB's Ferguson & Young have combined to rush for 160 yards and 2 TD on 48 carries - a measly 3.3 YPC. Another concern has to be the performance of the defense. They allowed 400 yards to WKU last week and now rank 73rd in yards allowed and 72nd in points allowed through two weeks. This week Illinois goes on the road for the first time in 2014 to take on a fellow team that has had two uninspiring performances. Washington barely escaped with a win in a trip to Hawaii in week one and had to battle FCS Eastern Washington to win a shootout, 59-52. Eastern Washington tallied an astonishing 573 yards and 35 first downs against the Huskies and their QB Adams threw 7 TD! If an FCS QB can do that to Washington, they have to be extremely concerned about what Illinois' Lunt will do this week. Washington ranks near the bottom of every major defensive category so far. That will need to be cleaned up as UW's offense isn't well-equipped to win shootouts. The Huskies have run the ball with success (265 YPG with eight rush TD) but QB's Miles & Lindquist have combined to comlete just 24-of-50 passes for 342 yards and 2 TD. Illinois has revenge on its mind after a 10-point loss to the Huskies last September. The 10-point margin actually should have been larger as Washington was +288 yards and +13 first downs - but -2 in TO's, allowing Illinois to keep it rather close. The Illini have lost 11 of their last 12 road/neutral openers with the average loss by 17 PPG. Washington is just 8-15 ATS in its last 23 as a double-digit favorite while Illinois is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 as a double-digit underdog.

Michigan (-31) vs. Miami (OH)

The good news for Michigan is that it can't get much worse than what happened last week. The Wolverines were shutout for the first time since 1984 and it came at the hands of their bitter rival, Notre Dame, in the final scheduled game of the series. Michigan didn't get much going on offense, rushing for just 100 yards on 2.9 YPC and tossing for 189. They turned the ball over four times to Notre Dame's zero, and the defense was picked apart by ND's QB Golson. The only positive to take from that game was that Michigan's run defense held ND to just 54 rush yards on 1.7 YPC. The Wolverines will have to avoid a letdown after such a meaningful game last week, but that shouldn't be too difficult at home against Miami of Ohio, who has dropped 18 consecutive games. Miami showed some promise in a week one matchup against a good Marshall team. The Hawks were down by eight points at the end of the 3rd quarter before losing by 15 (covered as the 24-point underdog). Things didn't look nearly as promising in last week's home loss to FCS Eastern Kentucky. Miami turned the ball over six times and managed just 10 points against the FCS foe. QB Andrew Hendrix, the graduate transfer from ND, has a strong arm and already has 677 pass yards through two weeks. Michigan is 5-0 SU vs. Miami (last game was in 2008) and 33-1 SU vs. the MAC conference. Michigan is just 4-8 ATS in its last 12 as a favorite of 25 points or more. The Wolves are 15-7 ATS in their last 22 game at The Big House.

Ohio State (-32) vs. Kent State

Ohio State, like Michigan, will try to bounce back from a disheartening loss. The Buckeyes lost a regular season game for the first time under head coach Urban Meyer; and their first home loss since 2011. Braxton Millers absence under center was truly felt last week as redshirt freshman JT Barrett really struggled against Virginia Tech. VA Tech stacked the box and shut down OSU's rushing attack (108 yards on 2.7 YPC) and Barrett couldn't take advantage. Barrett completed just 9-of-29 passes with 1 TD and 3 INT and was inefficient on third down (4-of-16 conversions). The offensive line that replaced four starters from 2013 appeared overmatched by the Hokies and the defense wasn't pretty either. The Buckeyes will have a chance to get right this week against Kent State. Things are looking bleak for Kent State. The Golden Flashes have dropped both games so far this season, losing to Ohio and South Alabama. (0-2 ATS). QB Reardon has 4 TD and just 1 INT, but he has been inefficient (58%) and mild (5.8 yards per attempt). KSU is averaging just 47.5 rush yards per game and they've scored just 4 TD through two games. The Golden Flashes are 2-23-1 in the last 26 road openers including six straight losses by an average of 28 PPG. OSU has won both meetings with Kent State since 2000, winning by 34 points in 2002 and 45 points in 2007. Ohio State is 11-5 ATS in the last 16 games as a favorite of 25 points or more.

Nebraska (-10) @ Fresno State

The Huskers avoided a near-disaster against FCS McNeese State last week. With the game tied at 24 with just seconds remaining, the Huskers and Cowboys appeared to be headed for overtime. Star RB Ameer Abdullah took a pass 58 yards for a touchdown with 20 seconds left on the clock, giving Nebraska the seven-point win. The Huskers we saw in week one were vastly superior to the version we saw against FCS McNeese State last week. Which version will get on the plane to Fresno State? QB Armstrong was electric on the ground last week (131 yards on 11 carries) but was a bit inefficient through the air (16-of-31 with 2 TD and 1 INT). Abdullah couldn't get going on the ground as he tallied just 54 rush yards on 17 carries. Defensively the Huskers were a bit too lenient against their FCS foe, allowing 338 yards and 24 points while allowing the Cowboys to hold the ball for +9 minutes TOP. Fresno State, now 0-2, is desperate for a win and playing at home for the first time - Nebraska has to show up ready for a fight. FSU has looked outmatched in back-to-back road losses to Pac-12 members, USC (L 13-52) & Utah (L 27-59). The Bulldogs lost a lot of star power from 2013's team and nothing has gone right so far in 2014. QB's Connette and Burrell have been inefficient (55%) while combining to throw 3 TD and 4 INT. The defense has been absolutely atrocious. FSU is allowing 613.5 YPG (126th) and 55.5 PPG (127th) through two games. The Bulldogs are hoping that a return home, where they are 13-0 the past two years, gets them back on the right track. The only prior meeting between these two was in 2011. Fresno visited Nebraska as a 28-point underdog. They trailed 26-28 late before two late touchdowns put the game away for the Huskers (FSU cover). Nebraska is 11-5 ATS in the last 16 games as a road favorite of 10 points or more.

Purdue (+28.5) @ Notre Dame

What a difference a week makes. A week after Purdue started the season on a strong note, beating Western Michigan by nine and notching 43 points in the process, Purdue came crashing back down with a 17-point blowout loss at home to Central Michigan. CMU moved the ball with relative ease against Purdue, tallying 333 yards and 19 first downs despite playing conservative most of the 2nd half. Purdue QB Etling did not have a good day, starting with an INT that CMU returned for a touchdown just five minutes into the game. Etling was replaced by sophomore Austin Appelby, who didn't exactly fare well himself. Coaches have opened up the competition and a starter for this week has not been named. Things will get tougher for the Boilermakers as they travel to South Bend this Saturday. They'll hope to catch Notre Dame in a letdown spot after the Irish put a beat-down on rival Michigan last weekend. ND QB Golson completed 23-of-34 passes for 226 yards with 3 TD and no INT against Michigan while ND's defense dominated, forcing three turnovers and becoming the first team to shutout the Wolverines since 1984. Notre Dame has given up a total of 17 points through two weeks of play - bad news for a Purdue team that has huge questions on offense. Notre Dame has won 23 of the past 28 games in this series, including six straight. The Boilers have covered the past two seasons, however, losing by just three points in 2012 (+14) and seven points in 2013 (+18). Notre Dame is just 4-12 ATS in the last 16 as a favorite of 27 points or more. Purdue is just 7-19 SU and 8-16-1 ATS in its last 26 road openers. The Boilers are also just 3-7 ATS in the last 10 as an underdog of 20 points or more.

Indiana (+6) @ Bowling Green

The Hoosiers were off last week after dismantling FCS Indiana State in week one. Indiana has one of the more underrated offensive line units in the nation and they used it to perfection against FCS Indiana State. The Hoosiers ran the ball 69 times for 455 yards (6.6 YPC) and four scores. RB's Coleman and Roberts combined for 376 of those rush yards and QB Sudfeld only had to attempt 18 passes. If Indiana has successfully instilled a rushing presence into its offensive arsenal - they could be a serious sleeper in the Big Ten. The defense also had a promising effort, albeit against an FCS program, as it allowed just 170 total yards and 10 first downs. This week they travel to Bowling Green for their first road trip of the season. Bowling Green had a rough start to the season. The Falcons were blown out by Western Kentucky in week one and lost starting QB Matt Johnson to a season-ending hip injury in the process. They regrouped for a bounce back 48-7 win over FCS VMI last week. VMI was able to tally 418 yards and 24 first downs while controlling the ball for nearly 40 minutes. Bowling Green had three special teams touchdowns and forced three VMI turnovers. BG QB Knapke had a good starting debut (22-of-31 for 237 yards) while the rushing attack churned out 260 rush yards on 7.0 YPC. Bowling Green has dropped three straight games against Big Ten squads (since 2008), losing by an average of 33.6 PPG. Indiana is just 3-7 ATS in its last 10 as a road underdog.

Michigan State - Bye Week

For the better part of two quarters, Michigan State looked like the superior team to Oregon, leading 27-18 midway through the 3rd quarter. The wheels came off after that as Oregon scored the final 28 points of the game in the 46-27 win. MSU QB Cook completed just 29-of-47 passes and had 2 costly INT's while the rushing attack never really got going (123 yards on 3.4 YPC). The defense was good for a while, but Oregon's up-tempo pace clearly exhausted the Spartans. MSU allowed Oregon's Heisman candidate QB Mariota to throw for 318 yards and 3 scores while the Ducks added 173 rush yards. The 46 points allowed by MSU was the most under Dantonio since allowing 49 to #7 Penn State in 2008. Sparty is off this week before hosting Eastern Michigan next Saturday.

Wisconsin - Bye Week

It wasn't easy to watch as the Badgers struggled to just a 9-3 halftime lead against FCS Western Illinois, but credit the Badgers for coming out hot in the 2nd half and racing to a 37-3 victory. Western Illinois stacked the box against the Badgers, limiting star RB Gordon to just 38 yards on 17 carries. QB McEvoy, who looked helpless in the week one loss to LSU, finally showed why he won the starting job. McEvoy completed 23-of-28 passes, including 17 straight at one point - for 283 yards with 3 TD and 1 INT. It was a promising sight as McEvoy shined and the defense held Western Illinois to just 162 total yards and 11 first downs. The Badgers are off this week before hosting Bowling Green.

Northwestern - Bye Week

This seems like a broken record. Northwestern continues to lose in heartbreaking fashion. Five of their seven losses in 2013 were by 10 points or fewer and they've already dropped two such games this season. Last week Northern Illinois came into Evanston and handed Northwestern a 23-15 loss. NIU rushed for 221 yards on 4.0 YPC while QB Hare tossed 2 TD on just 10 attempts. Northwestern was stalled on offense as they totaled just 72 rush yards on 37 carries (1.9 YPC). To make matters worse, QB Siemian left in the 4th quarter with a leg injury. FCS Western Illinois visits Evanston next Saturday.

Bad Company - Week 3
By Kevin Rogers
VegasInsider.com

Each week during the college football season, we’ll take a look at the worst of the worst teams on the gridiron and who to avoid placing your money on, even if the high number is enticing. Heading into the third week of the campaign, three of these squads come from the Mid-American Conference, starting with a club looking for its first victory since October of 2012.

Miami-Ohio (+31) at Michigan

The days of Ben Roethlisberger under center for Miami-Ohio are long gone as the Redhawks are currently riding an 18-game losing streak. In 2013, the Redhawks finished 0-12 straight-up and 3-9 against the spread, which included seven defeats by at least 25 points. Miami managed a cover in its season opener against Marshall as 24-point home underdogs in a 42-27 setback, but tripped on itself as a six-point home favorite against Eastern Kentucky in a 17-10 loss.

Now, Miami heads to the Big House to take on a Michigan squad that was humiliated at Notre Dame last Saturday. The Redhawks own a dreadful 2-10-1 ATS record the last two seasons as road underdogs, while Michigan has covered six of its past seven games as a double-digit home favorite.

Kent State (+32) at Ohio State

Another case of a MAC school going on the road to take on a Big Ten squad coming off an embarrassing loss. The Golden Flashes have compiled a 4-10 SU and 4-9-1 ATS record since the 2012 season in which Kent State made it all the way to the MAC title game. The offense has been offensive so far for the Flashes, who have scored a total of 27 points in two losses to Ohio and South Alabama.

One positive to note with Kent State is the 2-1 ATS record last season as a double-digit road underdog, which including covers at LSU and Ball State. However, it seems like a nearly impossible task for Kent State headed to the Horseshoe on Saturday to come out with a win as the Buckeyes last lost to an in-state school in football back in 1921. Since 2009, OSU has put together a 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS record against Ohio schools, as four of those victories came by at least 36 points.

Purdue (+27) vs. Notre Dame (in Indianapolis)

The Boilermakers owned one of the worst defenses in college football last season en route to a dreadful 1-11 season in which the lone win came against FCS Indiana State. Purdue allowed at least 31 points in eight games in 2013, while the Boilermakers kept that trend alive in the first two contests of 2014 by yielding 34 points to Western Michigan and 38 points to Central Michigan. Now, Purdue gets a major step-up in class against Notre Dame, who has scored 79 points in its first two wins over Rice and Michigan.

The good news for Purdue heading into this neutral-site matchup at Lucas Oil Stadium is the two covers against Notre Dame the last two seasons, a 20-17 defeat in South Bend as 14-point ‘dogs in 2012, followed by a 31-24 home setback in 2013 as 17-point ‘dogs. However, the Boilermakers put together a 3-6 ATS record last season as a double-digit underdog, which included six losses of at least 24 points.

Eastern Michigan (+18) at Old Dominion

Back to the MAC with the Eagles of Eastern Michigan, who were blown out at Florida last Saturday, 65-0 as 40½-point underdogs. How bad was it for EMU? The Eagles were outgained by the Gators, 655-125, while EMU racked up only seven first downs (compared to 27 by UF). Eastern Michigan has won only two games in three of the past four seasons, so its prospects of an improved campaign are highly unlikely in 2014. Now, the Eagles are playing the second of four straight road games, taking on an Old Dominion team who is participating in its first season at the FBS level.

Eastern Michigan is 1-7 ATS in its past eight as a road underdog, while ODU blew an 11-point lead in last week’s 46-34 setback at North Carolina State as a 15½-point ‘dog. EMU better strap up defensively after giving up a mind-blowing 42 points or more in nine of the past 12 games.

FIU (+26) vs. Pittsburgh

The only home underdog on this list is the Golden Panthers, taking on the Pitt Panthers in this obvious mismatch. FIU has split a pair of games against FCS schools Bethune-Cookman and Wagner, while allowing 17 points so far. There isn’t much to get excited about offensively with FIU, who scored 13 points or less 10 times in 2013. Since 2012, the Golden Panthers have lost 12 of their past 13 home games with the lone victory coming against Wagner last week.

Pittsburgh’s largest road win under Paul Chryst is a 24-point margin against USF back in 2012, as the Panthers split six games away from Heinz Field last season. Pitt is seeking back-to-back road wins for the first time since 2008.

Favorite fade:

Vanderbilt (-16) vs. Massachusetts

Vandy has put together two horrible efforts so far in losses to Temple and Ole Miss. The Commodores have been outscored by a massive margin (78-10), while allowing 547 yards to Ole Miss last week. UMass may not have a lot of talent, but the Minutemen hung around with Colorado as a 17-point home ‘dog in last Saturday’s 41-38 defeat. Last season, UMass compiled a 2-4 ATS record as a road underdog, while covering as 29-point ‘dogs in a 24-7 loss at Vanderbilt.

Saturday's Top Action
By Sportsbook.ag

GEORGIA BULLDOGS (1-0) at SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS (1-1)

Sportsbook.ag Line & Total: Georgia -5.5, Total: 60
Sportsbook.ag Opening Line & Total: Georgia -5 & 56.5

No. 6 Georgia kicks off its SEC season Saturday with a matchup against No. 24 South Carolina, which is already 0-1 in conference play.

Georgia should be well-rested after already getting a week off following an easy defeat of Clemson in the season opener by a score of 45-21. In the contest, the Bulldogs came out of the half and scored 24 consecutive points while shutting out a tough Tigers team. Georgia finished with a mere 131 passing yards, but dominated the ground game and rushed for 328 yards on 41 attempts (8.0 YPC) while holding its opponent to a putrid 88 rushing yards on 2.0 YPC. While Georgia was taking the week off, South Carolina was playing a tough East Carolina team and coming away with a 33-23 victory as 14.5-point favorites. They held a four-point cushion going into halftime, but outscored the Pirates 13-7 in the second half to capture the win as kicker Elliot Fry hit all four of his field goal tries. The Gamecocks were actually outgained in the contest (453-441) with the only real difference maker being the two turnovers they forced.

These programs have plenty of history against each other with Georgia going 14-8 SU (8-12 ATS) since 1992 while each team has earned a win (both SU and ATS) at home over the past two seasons. Last year the Gamecocks hit the road and absorbed a 41-30 loss as three-point underdogs against their SEC rivals as they were torched through the air by QB Aaron Murray for 309 yards and four touchdowns. Trends show that South Carolina is 4-13 ATS (24%) in home games after allowing 6.75 yards or more per play in its previous game since 1992, but the team is also 6-1 ATS since 2012 after a two-game homestand. As far as injuries are concerned, Georgia WR Justin Scott-Wesley has a hurt ankle but may also not play due to a marijuana arrest, while fellow WR Malcolm Mitchell (knee) is doubtful for the game. The Gamecocks have no significant injuries.

In Georgia’s one contest, the team needed only 131 yards passing due to its impressive running game grinding out 328 yards (11th in FBS) and scoring five touchdowns. Although the rushing attack is solid, the Bulldogs will need to at least threaten through the air and senior QB Hutson Mason (131 pass yards) will be expected to do just that. He averaged a mere 5.0 YPA in the victory over Clemson, but should improve as he has averaged over 8.4 YPA in his past two seasons (140 attempts).

The star of the offense is Heisman hopeful HB Todd Gurley who had 198 yards on 18 carries (13.2 YPC) and 3 TD in the season opener while also adding a 100-yard kickoff return for a score. He is not alone back there, as HB Nick Chubb rattled off a 47-yard TD run against the Tigers and HB Sony Michel gained 33 yards on six carries (5.5 YPC). WR Michael Bennett (5 rec, 60 yards) earned the most targets in the first contest, while senior WR Chris Conley (2 rec, 14 yards) is expected to be the second option with Malcolm Mitchell on the mend. The Bulldogs defense allowed 29.0 PPG (79th in FBS) last year and put up a solid performance against a potent Clemson offense, while LB Ramik Wilson (7 tackles) should be the anchor on the defensive side of the ball.

Through the first two games of the year, the Gamecocks have shown impressive talent in the passing game (316 YPG, 26th in FBS) while struggling to get much production on the ground, picking up a mere 121 YPG. QB Dylan Thompson (632 yards, 5 TD, 2 INT) threw for 366 yards, 4 TD and 1 INT in the loss to Texas A&M to open the season, and was solid (266 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) in the win over East Carolina this past week. Behind him is a tandem of HBs led by Mike Davis (116 yards, 2 TD) who had 1,183 yards rushing and 11 TD in 2013.

Splitting the carries with the senior will be change-of-pace HB Brandon Wilds (94 yards) who has averaged 4.1 YPC in the first two games. WR Nick Jones (157 yards, 2 TD) leads a deep group of wide receivers for South Carolina, as Pharoh Copper (103 yards, 1 TD), Shaq Roland (96 yards) and Damiere Byrd (46 yards, 1 TD) are all expected to contribute. The defense is certainly missing number one pick Jadaveon Clowney, as LB Skai Moore (13 tackles, 1 sack) attempts to take over in the role as leader on this side of the ball. So far through the first couple of weeks they have given up far too many points (37.5 PPG) as have allowed the nation's third-most passing yards (416 YPG).

UCLA BRUINS (2-0) vs. TEXAS LONGHORNS (1-1)

Sportsbook.ag Line & Total: UCLA -7, Total: 50
Sportsbook.ag Opening Line & Total: UCLA -7 & 50

Texas looks to bounce back from a blowout loss to BYU as they meet No. 12 UCLA in Arlington, TX on Saturday night.

These two teams last played in 2011, with the Longhorns traveling to California and winning 49-20. In that game, Texas RB Malcolm Brown (then a freshman) rushed for 110 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. The Longhorns outrushed the Bruins 284 to 141 in that win, and will look to dominate the line of scrimmage on Saturday. In last week's 41-7 loss to BYU, the Longhorns were outrushed 248 to 82. The team was missing starting QB David Ash (concussion) and three offensive linemen (C Dominic Espinosa, OT Desmond Harrison and OT Kennedy Estelle), and the offense could not do anything at all. The Bruins are still looking for that complete team performance, as they are coming off a narrow 42-35 win against 22-point underdog Memphis.

UCLA has one of the top quarterbacks in the country in Brett Hundley, who played much better after a tough first week. He will need a big performance, as the Bruins should be facing an angry Texas team. The Bruins are 3-1 (SU and ATS) in this series since 1997, and are 10-4 ATS in the past three seasons after playing a game where 70+ points were scored. The Longhorns are hoping that Charlie Strong's 9-0 ATS away mark coming off an SU loss as a college head coach will continue with his new team. In addition to Ash and three O-Linemen being out for this game, the Longhorns will likely be missing top WR Jaxon Shipley (head), RB Daje Johnson (disciplinary) and DB Josh Turner (suspension).

In the Bruins 42-35 victory last weekend against Memphis, QB Brett Hundley threw for 396 yards and three touchdowns. That was a change from Week 1, when three defensive touchdowns are what UCLA needed to get the narrow 28-20 victory at 19-point underdog Virginia. Entering Saturday, the Bruins rank 24th in passing (319 YPG), 55th in scoring (35.0 PPG) and 99th in rushing (130 YPG) in FBS. For UCLA to reach its full potential, the team needs to rush the football better, which will open things up even more for Hundley and the passing game. Paul Perkins (178 rushing yards, 2 TD) has the talent to be a very good ball carrier, rushing for 98 yards and two touchdowns in the win against Memphis. Hundley has shown the ability to run the ball (65 yards this season), but the team can’t have him be the leading rusher on the team.

WR Thomas Duarte (4 catches, 110 yards, 2 TD) had a breakout game against Memphis, providing the Bruins with a big-play threat. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, Duarte is a big physical receiver who can also run away from the defense with speed. He will have opportunities against a Texas defense reeling from a tough performance. On defense for the Bruins, this is an opportunistic unit that thrives on making the big play. DB Ishmael Adams, who has 12 tackles and one interception for a touchdown, is an elite playmaker with the ability to change the game in a hurry. The Bruins rank 84th in the nation in scoring defense (27.5 PPG), and like the offense in Week 1, they are looking to bounce back from a disappointing performance where they allowed Memphis to gain 469 total yards.

The Charlie Strong era got off to a nice start with a season-opening 38-7 victory against North Texas, but took a major step back against BYU last week, allowing 429 total yards. The Longhorns currently rank 100th in FBS passing (183 YPG), 105th in rushing (122.5 YPG) and 106th in scoring (22.5 PPG). Last week against the Cougars, the Longhorns were missing three offensive linemen to suspension and injuries, while also missing starting QB David Ash (concussion). QB Tyrone Swoopes (176 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) is a very talented player, but as a sophomore, is still learning the game. He is similar to Hundley in his size (6-foot-4, 243 pounds), and has the ability to make plays with his legs as well. However, if the Longhorns are going to be in this game, they will have to get big performances from the running backs.

The duo of RBs Johnathan Gray (14 carries, 47 yards) and Malcolm Brown (14 carries, 28 yards) was very disappointing against the Cougars, but a large part of that is because of the offensive line. Wide receiver John Harris (8 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD in Week 2) is a nice playmaker, but an improved rushing game would make him a bigger weapon for the offense. As bad as the offense was against BYU, the defense was even worse. The Cougars for the second straight season just manhandled the Longhorns. The missed tackles of Texas played a huge role in this game, as the BYU offensive players made a lot of plays after contact. CB Quandre Diggs (eight tackles, 1 INT) is a talented player, and also one of the Texas leaders. After the loss to BYU, he questioned if his team has the heart to compete. A lot of times in sports when that happens, the team responds with a great effort. The Longhorns have the talent to compete with UCLA, but must play much harder.

TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS (2-0) at OKLAHOMA SOONERS (2-0)

Sportsbook.ag Line & Total: Oklahoma -21, Total: 55
Sportsbook.ag Opening Line & Total: Oklahoma -20.5 & 54.5

No. 4 Oklahoma looks to get a big non-conference win on Saturday when it entertains Tennessee.

This will be the third-ever meeting between these teams, with each school winning once. The Butch Jones era has begun in Tennessee, and after two weeks, it is off to a good start. The Volunteers beat Arkansas State 34-19 last weekend, but this will be a much more difficult test against Oklahoma. Tennessee has really struggled to win on the road against ranked teams, losing its past 20 games in this scenario, with its last victory coming against Georgia on Oct. 7, 2007. That streak will be very difficult to break as Bob Stoops-coached Oklahoma teams have an incredible record of 87-5 at home during his tenure as the head man.

The Sooners were one of the trendy College Playoff picks coming into this season after a big win against Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, and after two weeks, they appear to be fully capable of contending for a national title. In the team’s first two victories, Oklahoma has outscored its opponents, 100-23. However, like the Volunteers, the Sooners will be facing a much more difficult test on Saturday. Favorites of 10.5 to 21 points who won at least 80% of their games from the previous season are 46-17 ATS (73%) in the past 10 seasons, but Tennessee is 39-19 ATS (67%) on the road after forcing one or less turnovers since 1992. The Sooners are dealing with some off-field problems as CB Cortez Johnson and DL Quincy Russell are both questionable due to personal problems, OL Dionte Savage may have to serve a suspension, and DTs Jordan Wade (questionable) and Charles Walker (out) are dealing with undisclosed injuries. The Vols have no significant injuries.

For the Volunteers, the past couple of seasons have been rough, as the offense has not been able to compete with the SEC defenses. The offense comes into the game 51st in FBS scoring (36 points) and 55th in passing (260 passing YPG). While it has been only two weeks, QB Justin Worley (49-of-76, 520 yards and five touchdowns) has been terrific. He has showed great command of the offense, and done a nice job of spreading the ball around to many different receivers, as 11 Volunteers have catches in the first two weeks. His No. 1 target is sophomore WR Marquez North (8 catches, 106 yards, 2 TD). At 6-foot-4 and 222 pounds, North is a matchup nightmare on the perimeter. He is too big and strong for cornerbacks to guard him one-on-one on the outside. However, the Volunteers do a great job of moving him around, and will put him in the slot against linebackers. If that matchup happens, the Volunteers could be in great shape, as linebackers just can’t run with him. The fact that the passing game is playing so well is big because the Volunteers have some home-run threats in the backfield.

Freshman Jalen Hurd (112 yards, 1 TD) and Marlin Lane (95 yards, 1 TD) are both capable of taking the ball 80 yards on any given play. With the passing game continuing to improve, that should only open things up for the running game, as defenses have to take one guy out of the box. The defense of Tennessee has also been strong, allowing only 13 points (21st in nation). LB A.J. Johnson (18 tackles, 1 INT) is one of the elite defensive players in the country. He is an extremely versatile player that can play against the run, but also does a tremendous job of guarding the opposing tight ends. He is a game-changer for the Volunteers on defense, and will have an opportunity to show his talents on Saturday.

Two weeks into the college football season, the Sooners seem to be in midseason form. The offense ranks 10th in the nation in scoring (50.0 PPG), while ranking 41st in passing (286 YPG) and 42nd in rushing (222 YPG). Quarterback Trevor Knight (40-of-68, 552 passing yards and 3 TD) looks like the quarterback that took over the Sugar Bowl last season. While he is still only a sophomore, he is a different quarterback when it comes to controlling the offense. The Sooners have playmakers all over the field, with Sterling Shepard (12 catches, 226 yards, 2 TD) leading the way. Shepard is the type of receiver that can take a quick slant 80 yards, but he also has the ability to beat the defense over the top. That playmaking ability is crucial with the way the Sooners have rushed the ball. Keith Ford (19 carries, 138 yards, 4 TD) and Alex Ross (16 carries, 126 yards, 3 TD) are a threat to score every time they touch the ball. Last week, Ross rushed for an 82-yard touchdown against Tulsa. The Sooners are averaging 6.3 yards per carry on the season, with four players scoring at least one touchdown on the ground.

The Sooners offense has put up points in recent years, but the best Bob Stoops teams are the ones that have been elite on the defensive side of the ball. The Sooners have allowed only 11.5 PPG in two games (14th in FBS). LB Caleb Gastelum (12 tackles, 1 sack, 1 INT) is coming off a big performance against Tulsa that saw him land a scholarship after the game. He does a great job of just flying around to the ball, and is the guy that teammates see playing hard and it causes them to take their game to another level. CB Zack Sanchez (2 INT) is expected to play despite a shoulder injury, and he will get a lot of time against North.

Check out more College Football Odds and Props at Sportsbook.ag!

NCAAF Week 3

Central Florida (-2) lost 21-16 at home to Missouri in '12- total yardage in game was 395-346 UCF. Knights were outgained 511-245 two weeks ago by Penn State in Ireland, with PSU winning 26-24 on FG at gun after Knights had stormed from behind to take lead. Knights are 13-8 as road underdogs under O'Leary. AAC road dogs are 3-2 this season. Missouri thrashed Toledo 49-24 on road last week; they're 12-8 as a home favorite the last four years.

Virginia Tech won seven of last eight games with East Carolina, winning last three here, by 22-10-35 points, but dogs are 4-1-1 vs spread last six series games. Hokies had huge win at Ohio State last week; they're just 5-11-1 in last 17 games as home favorite and have ACC opener on deck vs Ga Tech. East Carolina (+16) lost 33-23 at South Carolina last week, improving to 6-10 as road underdogs under Ruffin. ECU has only nine starters back from LY, but they outgained Gamecocks 453-441.

Iowa needed two TDs in last 2:53 last week to nip stubborn Ball State 17-13 at home; Hawkeyes are 4-10 in last 14 games as home favorites- they won four of last six games vs rival Iowa State, winning four of last five played here, but Cyclones won 9-6 in last meeting here in '12. State lost Big X opener 32-28 at home last week to K-State, giving up winning TD in last 2:00- they're 13-10 as road dogs under Rhoads and have 10 of LY's starters back on offense this season.

Maryland (-3.5) drilled West Virginia 37-0 LY, ending 7-game series skid vs WVU; Terps lost last four visits here, last three by 10+ points- over last decade, they're 11-22 as home favorites, 5-7 under Edsall. Maryland won 24-17 at USF last week, holding Bulls scoreless in 2nd half. WVU is 9-5 as road underdog since '09, 5-4 under Holgorsen; they've got a senior QB with 13 career starts. Terps have 17 starters back, senior QB with 18 career starts.

First road start for Louisville's soph QB Gardner, who was 20-28/206 in his ACC opener in 31-13 win over Miami, converting 7-15 on 3rd down. Cardinals were 5-5-1 as road favorites under Strong; they have only four starters back on defense. Virginia lost 28-20 (+22) to UCLA in opener at home; Cavaliers are 6-11-1 in last 18 games as home dogs, but have 17 starters back this year- their soph QB has two starts. Virginia is 11-18-3 vs spread in ACC games under London.

South Carolina won three of last four games vs Georgia; they've scored 20+ points in four of last five series games, with Dawgs losing last two visits here 35-7/16-7, but Gamecock defense has been sub-par so far in '14, allowing 75 points, 1,133 yards and 66 first downs in splitting first two games. Carolina covered last four tries as a home dog, but this is its first game as home dog in four years. Georgia hung 328 rushing yards on Clemson in 45-21 win, they had last week off, which helps here.

Bielema is a bully coach; he whacked a I-AA team 73-3 last week, hut is only 3-7 as an underdog since coming to Arkansas. Hogs gave up 595 yards in 45-21 loss at Auburn in their opener- their junior QB has made 14 starts. These teams used to be rivals in the old SWC, but haven't met in roughly two decades. Tech struggled to beat UTEP 30-26 last week in El Paso; Red Raiders are 9-16 as home favorites since '08- they've got all five starters back on OL, but soph QB has only eight starts.

Washington (-10.5) outgained Illinois 615-327 in 34-24 win LY; Huskies gave up 52 points to I-AA team last week (won 59-52) after struggling at Hawai'i week before, as Petersen takes over team that is 8-4 as favorite at home the last three years. Illinois (-5.5) gutted out 42-34 home win over decent WKU squad last week, passing for 456 yards after trailing by FG at half, in game where both teams have three turnovers. Illinois is just 1-7 as a road underdog under Beckman.

Florida hasn't lost to Kentucky since late 80's, covering last seven series games; Wildcats were outscored by combined 149-18 in last three visits here- they're 3-4 vs spread in last seven visits here. Kentucky is 4-12 as road underdogs last four years, but have 15 starters back this year, with four back on OL. Gators has date at Alabama next week, could be taking look ahead; they're 12-18 in last 30 games as home favorites, 6-10 under Muschamp. Florida has junior QB with 13 starts.

UCLA was unimpressive in opening non-covering wins over Virginia and Memphis; Tigers gained 469 yards in Rose Bowl, 305 in air during 42-35 loss last week. Bruins have 17 starters back but their OL has struggled to protect junior QB Hundley, who has 29 career starts. Texas was drilled 41-7 by BYU last week for second year in row; gane was only 6-0 at half, but Cougars ran ball for 248 yards. Longhorns are depleted, missing QB and center- they were just 3-15 on 3rd down in Swoopes' 1st start.

Penn State is 22-2 all-time vs Rutgers, 9-0 in Garden State, but Lions are 1-4 in last five Big 14 road games, with only win as 24.5-point dogs last November at Wisconsin. PSU covered 11 of last 15 as road favorite; they outgained first two opponents by combined 413 yards but needed a late FG to nip UCF in Ireland, they smothered Akron 21-3 last week. Hard to believe this is a Big 14 game, first one for Rutgers, which has an upset win at Washington State already- they're 6-2 as dogs under Flood.

Major trap game for USC, flying cross-country after emotional win last week at Stanford, facing Boston College squad they drilled 35-7 (-14) in LY's meeting, outgaining Eagles 521-184. Trojans covered once in their last eight tries as road favorites, are 4-12 vs spread in last 16 non-league games. BC gave up 303 rushing yards in 30-20 home loss to Pitt Friday; Eagles completed only 10-28 passes, were outgained 414-276- they are 9-6 as home underdogs since '06, 2-1 under Addazio.

Arizona (-8.5) nipped Nevada 49-48 in bowl game two years ago, in last series meeting, with both teams having 30+ first downs. Wildcats are 6-6 as home favorites under RichRod; they've got Pac-12 opener next week vs Cal. Arizona has freshman QB- they gutted out 26-23 win at UTSA last week in his first road start. Nevada upset Washington State at home last week; Wolf Pack has senior QB with 32 starts- they were 2-4 LY as road dogs in Polian's first season in Reno.

Notes on rest of card
-- Indiana beat Bowling Green 42-10 at home LY; over the last decade, Hoosiers are 2-3-1 as a road favorite.
-- Marshall won eight of last 11 games with Ohio U; underdogs are 7-2 vs spread in last nine series games, 3-0 in last three played here.
-- Over the last decade, NC State is 0-11 as a road favorite.
-- Michigan is 7-3-2 vs spread under Hoke in game following a loss.

-- Since 2007, Kent State is 8-18 vs spread in non-MAC games.
-- Eastern Michigan covered three of last 14 games as a road dog.
-- Central Michigan is 1-7 as a home underdog under Enos.
-- Pitt is 7-4 vs spread in non-league games under Chryst.

-- Boise State covered 22 of last 31 games as a road favorite.
-- Georgia Tech is 11-5-1 vs spread in last 17 games as a home fave.
-- Vanderbilt lost its first two games by combined score of 78-10.
-- Oregon is 5-3 as home favorite under Helfrich; they covered 10 of last 14 non-conference games.

-- Air Force threw 32 passes last week; they threw 166 passes all of last year- they're 3-6 in last nine games as a road favorite.
-- Middle Tennessee won four of last five games vs Western Kentucky, with underdogs covering last three.
-- Since 2009, Kansas is 7-15 vs spread as a road underdog.
-- Arkansas State covered eight of last eleven games as a road dog.

-- Mississippi State is 7-3 as road favorite under Mullen, but they could be looking ahead to next week's visit to LSU.
-- UL-Lafayette covered 17 of last 22 games as a road underdog.
-- TCU is 4-9-1 vs spread in last 14 games as a home favorite.
-- Since 2007, Idaho is 4-10 vs spread as a home favorite.

-- Stanford covered four of last 13 games as a home favorite.
-- Southern Miss is 3-11 as a road dog since Fedora left USM.
-- Wake Forest is playing a strue freshman at QB. Utah State is 9-2 in its last 11 games as a home favorite.
-- Tulsa is 15-10 vs spread on the road the last four years.

-- Oklahoma State (-16) won 56-35 at UTSA LY, going 35-43/518 thru air- they outgained Roadrunners 605-504.
-- UL-Monroe is 27-19 as a road dog since 2005. LSU has a conference game with Mississippi State next week.
-- Notre Dame won its last six games with Purdue, but Boilers covered three of last five.
-- Navy ran ball for 407 yards in 21-10 (-13) home win over Texas State LY; Middies are 4-8 in last 12 games as a road favorite.

-- Tennessee is 3-8 vs spread in its last 11 games as a road dog.
-- Over last nine years, UTEP is 10-20-1 vs spread as home favorites.
-- SEC home favorites are 6-4 in non-league games. Texas A&M is 6-6 as home favorites under Sumlin.

-- UNLV beat I-AA Northern Colorado 13-12 last week; not good- they are 12-5-1 as home underdogs under Hauck.
-- Arizona State won/covered its last five games with Colorado.
-- Nebraska needed last-minute TD to beat I-AA McNeese State last week; Cornhuskers are 1-4 in last five games as a road favorite.

Armadillosports.com

Essential Week 3 College Football Betting Tidbits
By Covers.com

Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles at (2) Alabama Crimson Tide (-48)

* The Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles have proved to be a solid fade to begin the season. They've started the season 0-2 against the spread, including a failure to cover last week as 14.5-point faves against Alcorn State

* The Crimson Tide have a battle brewing at the RG position between Leon Brown and Alphonse Taylor, but coach Nick Saban is not tipping his hand. "Hopefully someone is going to give us the kind of performance at that position that we need to be able to play well in the offensive line with the rest of the group, and I think that’s improving.”

Tennessee Volunteers at (3) Oklahoma Sooners (-20.5)

* Vol's coach Butch Jones is entering the matchup with the Sooners with realistic expectations. "There's a difference between believing you're going to win, earning the right to win and hoping to win. We've hoped to win too much around here in the past."

* If Sooners co-offensive coordinator Jay Norvell gets his way, the Vols may be seeing a lot of Sterling Shepard. “I said, ‘Ryan (Broyles) never came out. Ryan was in there every snap.’ So there’s an added bit of conditioning he’s got to take on..."

Wyoming Cowboys at (4) Oregon Ducks (-43)

* The Cowboys have offered almost no underdog value by going an abysmal 1-7 against the spread against teams with a winning record.

* The Ducks have been battling injuries on their offensive line this season. With Tyler Johnson already gone for the season, freshman RT Andre Yruretagoyena sustained an injury that kept him out of the second half against Michigan State.

(6) Georgia Bulldogs at (23) South Carolina Gamecocks (+6.5)

* The Bulldogs are taking a unique approach to prepare for the crown noise Saturday. Instead of the more conventional playing loud music over stadium speakers, the coaching staff are using smaller speakers and having Huston Mason whisper his play calls in hopes to have players focus more on the QB.

* Injured WR Pharoh Cooper practiced for the Gamecocks Thursday after missing Wednesday and is currently expected to play.

Rice Owls at (8) Texas A&M Aggies (-31.5)

* Rice has not packed their defense when they go traveling. In their last 51 road games the over has hit 72 percent of the time.

* Kenny Hill could write his name in the Aggies record books Saturday. With 206 passing yards, Hill will become the first Aggie to amass 1,000 passing yards in three games.

UL Monroe Warhawks at (9) LSU Tigers (-31)

* The Warhawks have been surprisingly profitable on the road going 11-4 ATS in their last 15 road games.

* LSU has been having a rough time with their offensive line. Through the first two games the boys in the trenches have allowed four sacks and 12 tackles of a loss.

(10) USC Trojans at Boston College Eagles (+17)

* The coin flip will see some different faces for the Trojans Saturday. Josh Shaw and Hayes Pullard, team captains, are both not going to be around to start the game. Shaw is still serving a suspension after lying about rescuing his drowning nephew and Pullard was ejected in last weeks game and will miss the first half.

* Boston College coach Steve Addazio is planning on fielding a youthful team. “They’re our future and because we have voids, we have to do that. We have talented freshmen," Addazio said.

Purdue Boilermakers at (11) Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-27.5)

* Though Danny Etling is officially listed as the starter, Purdue has two sophomore QB's that could make an impact. Etling and backup Austin Appleby have combined for a 93.4 QB rating.

* Everett Golson has 521 passing yards with five touchdowns and no turnovers through his first two games for Notre Dame.

(12) UCLA Bruins at Texas Longhorns (+7)

* Defensively the Bruins are struggling ranking 100th in passing yards allowed while giving up 70 more yards per game that they did last year at this time.

* Texas is tied for fourth among FBS schools with 10 sacks. Hundley has been sacked 97 times since the start of the 2012 season.

(14) Arizona State Sun Devils at Colorado Buffaloes (+14.5)

* The Sun Devils have had little problem dispatching their opponent this week, taking the last five against the spread.

* The Buffaloes run game has been spotty, but it has allowed Shay Fields to tally more receptions (14) through two games than anyone in program history.

UL Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns at (15) Ole Miss Rebels (-27.5)

* Though the team has been disappointed in his play, Ole Miss will be sticking with Fahn Cooper at RT. The junior college transfer committed one holding penalty and two false starts against Vanderbilt.

* If the Ragin' Cajuns expect to win they will need to reverse history. UL Lafayette is 0-37 against SEC opponents all-time.

Army Black Knights at (16) Stanford Cardinals (-28)

* Army has not been able to put a consistent effort up for bettors, going a lowly 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games following an ATS win

* The Cardinals have been abysmal in the red zone this season. Stanford ranks 125th in red-zone scoring efficiency going five for 11 with only three TDs.

Kent State Golden Flashes at (18) Ohio State Buckeyes (-32)

* The Big Ten and Kent State have not meshed well for the Golden Flashes. Kent State has failed to cover the spread in their last six against the conference.

* Urban Meyer seems to be losing his patience with the defense. "Enough with getting close," the coach said on a weekly call-in show. "It's time to be a great defense."

East Carolina Pirates at (19) Virginia Tech Hokies (-10)

* Looking for an under the radar play? The Pirates are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 following a S.U. loss.

* Virginia Tech has won the last four contests against the Pirates, allowing 10 or fewer points three times over that stretch.

(21) Nebraska Cornhuskers at Fresno State Bulldogs (+10.5)

* The Bulldogs trailed by two in the fourth quarter of that last encounter before Ameer Abdullah's 100-yard kick return swayed the momentum for the Cornhuskers in a 42-29 victory.

* If you're looking for a longshot, you might want to look elsewhere. Fresno State has lost 17 straight games against Top 25 opponents.

Central Florida Knights at (22) Missouri Tigers (-10)

* The Knights have certainly developed a reputation for begin a giant-killer. The Knights are aiming for their third straight win against a ranked opponent.

* Mizzou has kept the offensive ball rolling for bettors going 8-0 ATS in their last eight after accumulating more than 450 yards off offense in their previous game.

ACC Report - Week 3
By Joe Williams
VegasInsider.com

East Carolina at Virginia Tech

After Virginia Tech's huge win on the road last week at Ohio State, will they come down to Earth and have a hangover game, or will they carry over the momentum and thrash the visiting Pirates? We'll find out a lot about the Hokies this weekend against a tough non-conference opponent. Over the past five years, Virginia Tech is 5-3 in games following a victory agaisnt an opponent in the AP Top 25. The Hokies are favored by 11 points in this one, and they have won each of the past four meetings in the series, allowing 10 or fewer points in three games during the span. For ECU, they're coming off a 33-23 loss at South Carolina, but they did cover for the second straight week. In fact, both teams are 2-0 ATS this season, so something's gotta give.

Louisville at Virginia

Louisville has come to the ACC and ascended to the top of the standings. Now, they take their show on the road for the first time this season. Virginia played UVA very tough, and then stomped in-state rival Richmond last weekend. The Cavaliers haven't been very good against the spread in recent years, but they're 2-0 ATS this season. Since 1979, UVA has dropped each of their past six facing an ACC member for the first time in conference play. Louisville is a six-point favorite on the road, and they're 14-2 ATS in their past 16 conference games dating back to the Big East. They're also 19-7 ATS in the past 26 road contests. UVA is still 5-11-1 ATS in the past 17 conference games.

North Carolina State at South Florida

N.C. State has found a way to win its first two non-conference tilts, but their opponent covered in each game. Now, they hit the road for the first time in 2014. The road wasn't very kind to the Wolfpack last season, as they were 0-4 with a 153 points allowed (39.0 PPG). South Florida QB Mike White (forearm) suffered a compressive fracture to his non-throwing left forearm in last week's loss to Maryland, but he still might be able to play. N.C. State is 2-9-1 ATS in their past 12 road games, and 1-4 in the past five non-conference games, and they have failed to cover in seven straight. USF hasn't been much better, going 5-20-1 ATS in the past 26 home games, and 10-24-1 ATS in the past 35 overall.

Kansas at Duke

This game opened with Duke as a nearly three-touchdown favorite, and has quickly gone down to Duke -14. The Blue Devils have rattled off eight straight victories at home against non-conference teams dating back to the 2011 season. They're coming off an impressive 34-17 win at Troy last week, but Duke is 0-1-1 ATS so far through two contests. Kansas made its season debut last weekend, but had an uninspiring 34-28 win against Southeast Missouri State. They'll look for better results in Durham.

Wake Forest at Utah State

Wake picked itself up off the mat after getting dropped at Louisiana-Monroe in their opener. They took out their frustrations on Gardner-Webb, winning 23-7 last weekend. Wake has averaged just 16.5 points per game on offense, and allowed a total of 24 points. The 'under' has cashed in each of the first two games for the Deacons. Utah State was humbled in its opener on the road at Tennessee, losing 38-7, and they rebounded for a 40-20 win over Idaho State las week. Both of these teams are 0-2 ATS so far this season.

Southern California at Boston College

With Clemson and Florida State on byes, and the other games lacking quality, this is the de facto marquee game in the Atlantic Coast Conference this week. This one could get away from BC in a hurry if they play like they did last weekend against Pittsburgh, however. The Eagles were trampled 30-20 by the Panthers, and the score doesn't indicate how lopsided the game was. BC scored a late touchdown, and then had an onside kick and an opportunity to make it even close. They didn't, and now sit at 1-1 SU/ATS on the season. The under is also 0-1-1, as total bettors had to settle for a push after last weekend's late touchdown. USC has fired out of the game for two wins and covers, including an impressive 13-10 road win at Stanford. USC has allowed just 11.5 PPG on defense, and the Trojans D might be too challenging for QB Tyler Murphy and the young Eagles. USC enters as a 17-point favorite.

Other ACC teams in action

Pittsburgh at Florida International
Syracuse at Central Michigan
Georgia Southern at Georgia Tech
Arkansas State at Miami, Fla.

Pac-12 Report - Week 3
By Joe Williams
VegasInsider.com

Wyoming at Oregon

Oregon throttled Michigan State in a marquee battle last weekend, now they'll look to beat back an attack from Wyoming in a potential hangover game. The Cowboys are coming off a thrilling 17-13 win against Air Force, getting a touchdown with 58 seconds left to stay perfect at 2-0. However, Montana and USAFA have nothing on the Ducks, as far as offense is concerned. The Ducks are 51-18-1 all-time against Mountain West teams, but this is the first-ever meetings with Wyoming. The Cowboys have managed to score 17 points in each of their first two games, and it will obviously take quite a bit more against Heisman candidate Marcus Mariota and the Ducks. The 43-point spread is the highest-ever against a Wyoming opponent.

Illinois at Washington

Illinois heads to Seattle for its first road game of the season, and they look to keep the offense rolling. QB Wes Lunt and company piled up 42 points in a win against Western Kentucky last week, while the Huskies held off a challenge from Eastern Washington, winning 59-52. With a total of just 64.5 points, 'over' bettors might be on the lookout. Illinois has averaged 31.0 PPG on offense, and allowed 25.5 PPG on defense. Last season's game went to the Huskies, winning 34-24 in Champaign. Both teams look to be quite improved offensively.

Southern California at Boston College

This one could get away from BC in a hurry if they play like they did last weekend against Pittsburgh, however. The Eagles were trampled 30-20 by the Panthers, and the score doesn't indicate how lopsided the game was. BC scored a late touchdown, and then had an onside kick and an opportunity to make it even close. They didn't, and now sit at 1-1 SU/ATS on the season. The under is also 0-1-1, as total bettors had to settle for a push after last weekend's late touchdown. USC has fired out of the game for two wins and covers, including an impressive 13-10 road win at Stanford. USC has allowed just 11.5 PPG on defense, and the Trojans D might be too challenging for QB Tyler Murphy and the young Eagles. USC enters as a 17-point favorite.

UCLA vs Texas

The Bruins hit the road for a neutral-field game against the Longhorns in Arlington, Texas. UCLA finds itself 2-0 on the season, with a road win at Virginia and a home win against Memphis, but neither showing has been particularly impressive. They're 0-2 ATS so far, but at least the offense got on track last week after a sluggish start in Charlottesville. Speaking of sluggish, the Longhorns were manhandled at home by Brigham Young last week, scoring just six points in a 41-6 rout. QB Terrell Swoopes will make a second straight start with QB David Ash (concussion) sidelined. UCLA is favored by just eight points, and given Texas' woes on offense, that might be kind of attractive to some.

Arizona State at Colorado

The Sun Devils will take their powerful offense to Boulder for their first conference game of the season. AZ State picked up an impressive 58-23 road win at New Mexico, and the over hit after missing by nearly a touchdown in their opener against Weber State. Colorado has been porous on defense, allowing 34.5 PPG, and that's not good news facing an Arizona State offense which has totaled 103 points in its first two games. Colorado is 0-2 ATS in two games this season, and they are a 15-point underdog in Boulder Saturday night.

Nevada at Arizona

Both teams are off to promising 2-0 starts, and had nice victories last weekend. Arizona took down Texas-San Antonio on the road last Thursday, while Nevada slowed Washington State's high-flying offense to a crawl in a 24-13 win. Now, can the Wolf Pack do it again against Arizona, which ranks third overall in total offense? Well, Nevada is 3-8 ATS in their past 11 road games. However, Arizona is also 3-8 ATS in their past 11 against a team with a winning record. Bettors might find interest in the total. The under has connected in eight straight for Nevada, and each of their past five against teams with a winning record. The under is also 4-1 in their past five non-conference tilts. The under is 6-1 in Arizona's past seven home games, although the over hit in their home opener against UNLV two weeks ago.

Other Pac-12 teams in action

Army at Stanford
Portland State at Washington State

Total Notes - Week 3
By Chris David
VegasInsider.com

Week 2 Recap

The ‘over’ produced a 25-19-1 record in Week 2 in the 45 matchups between FBS schools. The sportsbooks fared well with the ‘under’ cashing in the majority of primetime games from Thursday through Saturday. VegasInsider.com total expert James Manos returns with his thoughts on the first two weeks of the college football regular season.

Manos said, “It's become harder to win as the sportsbooks and players have all become sharper and the sharing of information has led to a "one source" pool that forces solid handicappers to become excellent market analyzers and originators in order to win. Books constantly adjust, so bettors must too. With that said, adjusting after just two weeks of the season is a slippery slope. I spend a lot of hours preparing for the football season to begin, so I feel that my off-season numbers are well formed and educated. However, adjustments must always be made, especially in the totals arena, but in the first several weeks it will take a larger discrepancy for me to start altering my vision of a team, coach, or offensive unit.”

All professionals use metrics in their analysis and Manos is no stranger to numbers. He has a unique set of defensive and offensive efficiency ratings and he shares his adjustments on two schools below:

Wyoming - Anybody who knows me knows that I love new Cowboys head coach Craig Bohl. He was the best off-season hire by any school and he understands football in a very player friendly way. This is not a talented Wyoming team and Bohl has quickly recognized that and is playing to his strengths. The Cowboys lost their only true playmaker from LY in QB Smith but did return nine starters to the defense. Bohl and his staff were infamous at NDSU for taking a grouping of decent players and turning them into an outstanding defensive unit. He's on his way to doing that here as well. He's realized that his team will have to rely on defense and slowing down the game, in Wyoming's two games they've averaged just 66 plays per game. Also, their offensive efficiency rating prior to the Montana game (22.1%) was one of the lowest I've set this year. Expect solid defense and slowly paced games.

Western Kentucky - New HC Jeff Brohm did a good job of keeping his new offensive style under wraps during the summer. In his preparation for the opener vs. Bowling Green, he acted as if the up-tempo play would be dictated by the Falcons new offense and not his own. Covert operations were at work. Brohm is an offensive minded coach and he's putting out a product that displays his own preferred style. The Hilltoppers have been playing fast and with 8 returning starters on offense, including a SR QB, he obviously thought he had a lot to work with. QB Doughty has attempted 104 passes in just two games and WKU has run 97 and 79 plays while scoring a combined 93 points. Hilltoppers totals will be adjusted accordingly but their schedule still has the potential for more shootouts.

Wyoming and Western Kentucky both play on the road this weekend, visiting Oregon and Middle Tennessee respectively. Coincidentally, the total for their games both opened at 67 and they’ve both been bet down.

Big Five Notes (ACC, Big 12, Big 10, Pac-12, SEC)

The ACC saw the ‘over’ go 4-2 in lined games last week as 10 of the 13 schools in action scored 30-plus points and four posted 45 points or more.

In the four FBS vs. FBS matchups in the Big 12 from Week 2, the ‘over’ went 3-1.

The ‘over’ went 5-4 in the Big Ten last weekend and bettors might want to keep an eye on the defensive units in this group. Michigan (31), Michigan State (46), Ohio State (35), Illinois (34) and Purdue (38) allowed a handful of points in Week 2.

The Pac-12 watched the ‘over’ go 6-3 in Week 2 and if you include California’s result (55-14) against FCS school Cal State-Sacramento, it would be 7-3. The Bears were one of four Pac-12 schools to score 55 or more points last weekend.

It was a stalemate in the SEC for totals last weekend as the O/U produced a 4-4 mark. The ‘under’ should’ve went 5-4 but the Alabama-FAU result (41-0) wasn’t official since the game was called due to weather before it was deemed official (55 minutes).

3rd and Ugly

One statistic that I personally use to handicap totals is 3rd Down Conversion Percentage. If you can’t move the chains, then you’re not going to score points which could lead you to ‘under’ bets on these schools. Per numbers from the NCAA, here are the worst five teams in the nation.

Miami, Fl – 13%
SMU – 17%
Florida International – 22.6%
Temple – 22.9%
Texas – 23.3%

These five schools have a combined ‘under’ record of 2-8.

And listed below are the five highest third-down conversion percentages for teams that have played two games.

Georgia Tech – 68.2%
Auburn – 67.9%
Texas A&M – 67.7%
Middle Tennessee – 64%
Baylor – 63.9%

If you bet the ‘over’ blindly on these teams, you would be 8-2.

Line Moves

The professionals dominated with their moves in Week 1 but came back to life in Week 2. We asked Manos how novice bettors should react to line moves on totals.

He answered, “I think this depends on the type of line movement and the time of the year. I'm much more leery of significant moves on totals early in the season for a variety of reasons. Early movements, early in the season are generally the work of syndicates and well prepared totals players. These moves are generally sharp and not the work of the betting public, so taking notice of them or getting ahead of them is necessary to win. I classify these early total movements into four categories."

1) Correct sharp movement
2) Incorrect sharp movement
3) Public movement
4) Market manipulation.

Here's an example of each from the movements so far this week:

1) Correct sharp movement - Indiana/Bowling Green OVER
2) Incorrect sharp movement - Nevada/Arizona OVER
3) Public movement - Georgia/South Carolina OVER
4) Market manipulation - Western Kentucky/Middle Tennessee UNDER

"As a generalization (I can't emphasize that enough, a GENERALIZATION) I respect line moves early in the year and will look to get ahead of them or follow. Later in the year, I've got more data to work with and the totals have much less variance, so I'm more apt to fade a total at its peak and gain the value in the extra numbers. Chasing steam on totals can work but as the season progresses it loses some of its value. So far the early line movers have had two very different weeks, Week 1 was a rousing success and Week 2 was chock full of losers (especially betting at or near the closing numbers)."

"I think an interesting game to watch from a totals perspective this week will be the Kentucky-Florida matchup. The movement upwards in the total from 48 to 53 is significant (crossing two key numbers) and is driven by sharp money. Someone must believe in Florida's new offense or that Kentucky will have success against a very good Florida defense. However, Florida's only game was vs. Eastern Michigan so its 65 points can be discounted a bit and the defense allowed only 125 yards and ZERO points. Kentucky does return seven offensive starters and is vastly improved from last year but in their lone game vs. FBS competition the final score was 20-3. I originally had this movement penciled in as market manipulation but none of the indicators are there to tell me that's what it is. OVER backers have driven this one up but I'll have to see it to believe it."

Georgia at South Carolina
By Brian Edwards
VegasInsider.com

With its back against the wall in terms of competing for an SEC East title this season, South Carolina (1-1 straight up, 0-2 against the spread) will take on Georgia in a crucial conference clash Saturday at Williams-Brice Stadium.

As of Friday afternoon, most betting shops had Georgia (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS) listed as a 6.5-point road favorite with a total of 60. Gamblers can take the Gamecocks on the money line for a +220 return (risk $100 to win $220). For first-half wagers, UGA is favored by 3.5 with the 'over/under' set at 30.5 points.

The Wynn in Las Vegas opened UGA as a 3.5-point 'chalk' Sunday before quickly moving the line down to three. Within a few hours, however, the number was up to 5.5. By lunch on Monday, the line had settled at six at most books. The line moved to 6.5 early Friday.

Steve Spurrier's team got off to a horrific start when it took a 52-28 beating from Texas A&M as a 10-point home favorite in its Thursday night opener two weeks ago. The Gamecocks responded by capturing a 33-23 win over East Carolina last Saturday night as 15-point home 'chalk.' The 56 combined points stayed 'under' the 65-point total.

Although South Carolina failed to cover the number against ECU, there's no shame in beating that AAC school by a double-digit margin. The Pirates have a quality team with the best QB (Shane Carden) and WR in school history (Justin Hardy).

Mike Davis wasn't 100-percent healthy in Week 1 and it showed, as he produced only 15 rushing yards on six carries. Davis made up for against ECU, rushing 18 times for 101 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Dylan Thompson threw for 266 yards and one TD, a 16-yard scoring strike to K.J. Brent.

For the season, Thompson has completed 45-of-78 passes (57.7%) for 632 yards with a 5/2 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Nick Jones has been Thompson's favorite target to date. Jones has hauled in 10 receptions for 157 yards and two TDs.

Georgia was one of the nation's most impressive teams in Week 1, dominating Clemson in the second half en route to a 45-21 win as a 9.5-point home favorite. The 66 combined points soared 'over' the 55.5-point total.

Todd Gurley was the catalyst for the Bulldogs, rushing for three TDs and returning a kick 100 yards to paydirt. Gurley finished with 198 rushing yards on just 15 carries. Hutson Mason, who was making his third career start, connected on 18-of-26 throws for 131 yards.

Mason is making his first career road start against an SEC opponent. In his only previous road start, Mason sparked UGA to an overtime win over Georgia Tech after trailing the Yellow Jackets by 13 at intermission.

UGA is dealing with depth issues at the wide receiver position because three key players won't play this week. Malcolm Mitchell, Jonathon Rumph and Justin Scott-Wesley are 'out.'

South Carolina hasn't been a home underdog since thumping top-ranked Alabama 35-21 in 2010. Going back to 2009, the Gamecocks have covered the spread in four consecutive games as home 'dogs, winning outright three times.

South Carolina saw its three-game winning streak over Georgia snapped in Athens last year. Gurley rushed for 132 yards and a pair of scores, while Aaron Murray torched the Gamecocks' secondary after previously playing awful in three career games against USC. Mark Richt's team used a long a TD pass by Murray early in the fourth quarter to go up 41-30, which was the final score.

Davis was dynamite in the losing effort, rushing 16 times for 149 yards and one TD. He also had four catches for 49 yards. The game was closer than the final score indicated. South Carolina failed to score after advancing to the UGA one, getting stuffed on back-to-back plays in the fourth quarter. Also, a nice drive to start the third quarter was negated when Connor Shaw coughed up a fumble inside of UGA's 25.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern on CBS. There's a 70 percent chance of rain showers.

B.E.'s Bonus Nuggets

The 'under' has cashed in seven straight South Carolina-Georgia meetings played in Columbia.

After the win over Clemson, UGA had an open date and two weeks to prepare for South Carolina. This is usually a huge bonus, especially when the other team does have a game. However, at this point early in the year, I'm not sure that the Bulldogs have an sort of edge based on the off week.

Spurrier owns a 15-6 (straight up) record against Georgia. He went 11-1 against the Bulldogs during his dynastic 12-year tenure at Florida.

UGA went 1-3 in the role of road favorite in 2013.

Sportsbook.ag has updated its odds to win the SEC. Alabama is the 2/1 'chalk,' followed by Georgia and Auburn who are 3/1 and 4/1, respectively. The next-shortest odds belong to Texas A&M (+650), Florida (8/1), Ole Miss (12/1), LSU (12/1), South Carolina (15/1), Missouri (28/1) and Mississippi St. (45/1).

Sportsbook.ag has FSU as the 5/1 'chalk' to win the national title. The Seminoles are followed by Alabama (8/1), Oregon (8/1), Oklahoma (9/1), Georgia (10/1), Texas A&M (12/1) and Auburn (12/1).

Oklahoma State quarterback JW Walsh had surgery on his foot Thursday and will be out at least 6-8 weeks. He might miss the rest of the regular season.

Rice star WR Jordan Taylor will miss his second straight game Saturday at Texas A&M. Taylor, who led the Owls with 55 receptions for 848 yards and eight TDs last year, is dealing with a lingering foot injury. The hope is that he'll be ready to go in next weekend's C-USA opener against Old Dominion.

Utah State WR Brandon Swindall is out for the season after tearing his Achilles in a Week 2 win over Idaho St. Swindall led the Aggies in TD catches with six in 2013.