Week 7 Opening Line Report
By Bill McBride
Somewhere tucked in a back room of the CBS Sports Network, his new employer, former Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez has to be shaking his head.
Because with the majority of Rodriguez’s recruits, new Wolverines coach Brady Hoke is orchestrating a Big Blue Revival. Michigan, en route to a 6-0 start overall, including a 2-0 mark in the Big Ten, has shown fight, has shown heart, and just refuses to quit. All characteristics that were mostly vacant in the previous regime.
On Saturday, the Wolverines overcame a halftime deficit and rallied past Northwestern with ease, 42-24.
"We said what it was. We were down 10 points. We had thrown three interceptions for one reason or another, we'd had three penalties on ourselves offensively, we were not getting off blocks on the back end defensively, and that's what it was,” Hoke said. “That's kind of what we talked about, nothing more, and we talked about how we want to be as a Michigan football team."
How they want to be, of course, is a Big Ten force again. Someone to be reckoned with, someone to be respected and someone to be feared. And while it’s not pretty at times, the Wolverines do appear on their way.
But this week won’t be easy. This will be Hoke’s first Michigan State Week, and he will need to tackle all the pomp and circumstance that goes with it. And oh yeah, distractions aside, the Spartans (4-1, 1-0) are pretty good, too.
So, it certainly presented an interesting matchup to the Las Vegas oddsmakers on Sunday, when they carved out their lines for the week. Even though Michigan has looked good, they are aware of a potential fall.
Covers.com spoke with Pete Korner who’s the founder of the line consultant group Esportclub, LLC. Bettors should remember his lines are recommendations and not actually the opening numbers from sportsbooks. We'll use the Wynn Las Vegas opening odds and tell you the spreads Korner's group sent out to its clients.
“We had lines all over the place on this one,” said Korner said of the Spartan-Wolverine game. “Really, either team can take this one.”
Home field means a bunch in the Big Ten, of course. So, Korner established the host Spartans as 2-point favorites.
“Really was a tough call, and it could really be a pick here,” Korner said. “But I think Michigan State should be favored. These are not great teams, but they’re good, and it should be entertaining.”
And with that, let’s take a look at some of next week’s other marquee games:
USC (-3) at Cal
“We don’t like either team all that much," Korner, who sent out Trojans -1, said. “I don’t know what to make of this matchup. In the past, there’s been some great games in this rivalry. But about the only thing you can say this time, is that it’s on TV by itself and may draw some interest because of it. But, really, there’s no strong argument for either side.”
Baylor (+9.5) at Texas A&M
“We were all fairly close on this one,” Korner said. “Eventually, we went double digits (10) and it’s deserved for Texas A&M. They’ve been playing well, so we went with the aggressive number.”
Early bettors don't agree. The line was bet down to A&M -8 shortly after the spread opened at -9.5.
LSU (-15) at Tennessee
“We wanted to be careful on this one,” said Korner, who recommended LSU -14. “We’ll be checking all week on injured Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray, see where his status goes. Normally, with everyone healthy, this would have been 12, but the injuries pushed us up. And with the way LSU is playing, we wanted to be aggressive.”
Shortly after talking to us, word came down that Bray would miss six weeks with a fractured thumb.
Oklahoma State (-5.5) at Texas
“Should be a fun game to watch. We gave it to the road favorite (sending out OSU -6.5), as Texas was a no-show last week,” Korner said. “We know that will weigh heavily on people’s outlooks this week. This could easily be 7, but we wanted it under a touchdown, and then we’ll see what the bettors do with it. Should be a high, high-scoring game.”
The early action bumped Texas up to a 7-point home underdog.
Alabama (-23) at Ole Miss
“Not a very exciting game,” Korner said. “Alabama’s playing so well these days, you kind of have to stick it at the high number and see what happens with it.”
The love for the Crimson Tide continues to pour in. Alabama got bet up to 25-point chalk almost immediately at offshore sportsbooks.
Virginia Tech (-7) at Wake Forest
“This is an interesting game because of what Wake just did, beating Florida State,” Korner said. “But it was only one game, and Virginia Tech -- on the road -- should be ready. They’re the better team and we expect them to get it done. If Wake gets it done again this week, then we’ll revisit their power ranking and give them a little more respect.”
Korner recommended Wake +8.5 but his line could be on the right side of the touchdown mark by the end of the week.
Florida (Pick) at Auburn
“These are always good SEC games, even if they’re coming off losses,” Korner said. But there are a lot of injuries on the Florida side. So, we put it at a pick, and we’ll shift that as we learn more about the injuries. Right now, there are too many question marks.”
Stanford (-20) at Washington State
Korner's group went really big on this game, sending out Stanford -24. The Wynn didn't go quick as high, opening at -20 but that number has been bet up to 20.5.
“I keep telling guys to roll with Stanford,” Korner. “They’re getting there every week. And when you have a team like that, you would hate to keep rooting for the underdog. Stanford is just playing so well, so we went higher, and we’ll see if they like it.”
Arizona State (+14.5) at Oregon
“That’s a better game than many might think,” Korner said, “and it’ll be Oregon’s first without (injured running back) LaMichael James. Arizona State is not that bad, and Oregon will be shorthanded. But, even shorthanded, Oregon is still pretty good with what they have. If he was there, it’d be much higher. But without him, it might be closer, and we have respect for Arizona State anyway.”
Pac-12 Betting News and Notes
By Matt Fargo
The Pac-12 continued its lackluster season with just one game in Week 6 that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The slate started Thursday and California gave Oregon all it could handle - for a half. The Bears took a one-point lead into the locker room but the Ducks came out after halftime and scored touchdowns in their first four drives, amassing 294 total yards in the process. The win came with a price as LaMichael James went down with a dislocated elbow.
Oregon St. picked up its first win of the season as it built a 30-6 lead against Arizona and held on for the win. The Wildcats won the yardage battle 431-408 but they committed four turnovers in a span of four straight possessions to take them out of the game. Arizona has lost 10 straight games against FBS teams going back to last year.
Arizona St. has taken control of the Pac-12 South with just UCLA standing in its way following a with over Utah. The Sun Devils outgained the Utes 399-320 but they needed a late surge to get the win as they scored the final 25 points of the game. Utah killed itself with five turnovers which led to 22 points for the Sun Devils.
Colorado was ready to jump on top of Stanford but the Cardinal blocked a 29-yard field goal and returned it for a touchdown. The Buffaloes cut the Stanford lead to 13-7 but the Cardinal scored the next five touchdowns. Colorado had late chances but missed another field goal and threw an interception at the Stanford 30-yard line.
Washington St. and UCLA went back and forth all game before the Bruins tacked on a touchdown with 3:26 remaining to take the lead for good. The Cougars had one last shot but threw an interception with two minutes left and the Bruins ran out the clock. Washington St. outgained UCLA 389-371 but settled for four field goals.
Hot seat
This spot is normally kept for UCLA head coach Rick Neuheisel but the Bruins are now 2-1 and right in the hunt of the Pac-12 South.
The coach with the hottest seat belonged to Arizona's Mike Stoops before he was fired Monday. The Wildcats have dropped five straight games and only one of those was within single digits. As mentioned, they have dropped 10 straight games against FBS opponents and to be honest, Stoops didn't accomplish much in his eight years.
His career record at Arizona was 41-50 and he took taken them to just three bowl games, losing the last two by a combined score of 69-10.
"Things aren’t going our way right now, and that’s kind of where it’s at," coach Mike Stoops shrugged.
The Wildcats will be a good fade the rest of the way.
Injury News
The Pac-12 has been hit with injuries all season and it has continued the last couple weeks.
Utah lost quarterback Jordan Wynn last week to a shoulder injury and his replacement Jon Hayes showed his inexperience against Arizona St.
This week the Bruins lost starting quarterback Richard Brehaut to a broken leg and his return is in question. Kevin Prince did a good job in rallying the Bruins to a victory and now the quarterback controversy may finally be over.
Colorado receiver Paul Richardson is out for 2-3 weeks with a sprained knee. This is a major hit for an offense that is already struggling as he is arguably the Buffaloes top receiver.
Obviously the biggest blow was in Oregon when LaMichael James dislocated his elbow. X-rays were negative but James will be out for a few weeks and the Ducks are hoping to have him back when they face Stanford in a month.
Game of the Week
The Pac-12 is in the Thursday spotlight again this week with USC traveling to California but the big game takes place Saturday night when Arizona St. and Oregon face off in what could be the first of two meetings if they win their respective divisions and meet in the Pac-12 Championship.
The Ducks have covered all three of its FBS games since losing its season opener against LSU while Arizona St. is just 2-3 against the number. The Sun Devils are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games as an underdog of 10.5 or more points while the Ducks are 19-6-1 ATS in their last 26 games as a home favorite of 10.5 or greater so something will have to give.
Oregon is a 15.5-point chalk and has won six straight meetings.
College Notebook
By Bruce Marshall
Air Force...Falcons, who ranked a poor 113rd vs. run entering last week's Notre Dame game, were further thinned at LB when starter Ken Lamendola sat out vs. Irish with hamstring. AFA was already minus LB starter Patrick Hennessey with a thumb injury. And “ND" was a problem again for Falcons in 59-33 loss at South Bend.
Arizona...Cats have dismissed HC Mike Stoops after 1-5 beginning to 2011 campaign. Defensive coordinator Tim Kish will take over as coach on an interim basis for the remainder of the season. Star WR Juron Criner was KO'd in first half of 37-27 loss at Oregon State with a knee injury. Tough afternoon at office for Cats, who also saw Starters LG Chris Putton (ankle) and DT Justin Washington (knee) KO'd in Corvallis.
Auburn...Leading WR Emory Blake (19 catches for 333 yards) missed Arkansas game with a knee injury. Absence didn't help Tigers in 38-14 loss.
Ball State...The Cards' secondary should apply for federal aid. Already nicked up in the defensive backfield with assorted injuries that have kept out numerous players, Ball State was minus starters S Sean Baker (shoulder) and CB Josh Howard (concussion) in Saturday's 42-0 loss to Temple.
Boston College...Star RB Montel Harris re-aggravated his knee injury and sat out last week's 36-14 loss at Clemson. Worse for Eagles was that RB Williams, who emerged as BC's top rusher (313 YR) in Harris' earlier absence, was also out vs. Tigers with ankle injury. BC had also been juggling its OL in recent weeks with recurring back injury of G Nate Richman.
Boise State...As if Broncos need another weapon, long-striding 6'4 Dutch soph Geraldo Boldewijn made quite an impression in his first game since becoming eligible, catching 2 TD passes from Kelln Moore in Friday's 57-7 romp past Fresno State.
BYU...HC Broncos Mendenhall opted for sr. Riley Nelson over soph Jake Heaps at QB last Saturday vs. San Jose State. Nelson went the whole way vs. Spartans, tossing 3 TDs (but also 2 picks) in 29-16 Cougar win.
Clemson...Soph QB Tajh Boyd went down with a hip injury in 3rd Q of 36-14 win over BC. Replaced by true frosh Cole Stoudt (son of former NFL QB Cliff), who completed 6 of 10 passes for 37 yards vs. Eagles. No word yet on Boyd's status for Maryland game this week. "Cole's fine," said o.c. Chad Morris afterward about his backup. "We've got to make sure that we continue to push him."
Colorado...Five Buffaloes were suspended by HC Jon Embree prior to last week's 48-7 loss at Stanford, though only one, CB Paul Orms (who had missed the previous Wash. State game with a leg injury), was a starter. Buffs have been decimated in secondary, forced to move offensive converts Jason Espinoza (former WR) and Brian Lockridge (former RB) into secondary after broken leg suffered by CB Travis Sunderland and other minor injury concerns. CU has also been starting a true frosh CB, Greg Henderson, who was burned for the late TD pass which cost Buffs in the Oct. 1 loss to Washington State.
Florida...HC Will Muschamp was down to his third QB option last week at LSU. Starter John Brantley (ankle) was KO'd previous week vs. Alabama and might miss a couple of more games, but true frosh backup Jeff Driskel also had an ankle injury that kept him sidelined at Baton Rouge. True frosh Jacoby Brissett was next in line, and Charlie Weis' Gator aerial show was limited, as Brissett completed 8 of 14 passes with a TD and 2 picks in 41-11 loss to Tigers.
Florida Atlantic...HC Howard Schnellenberger pulled ineffective QB Graham Wilbert in 2nd half last week at North Texas after Wilbert completed only 10 of 30 passes and tossed back-to-back pick TDs in 3rd Q of 31-17 loss to Mean Green. Backup David Kooi fared better in mop-up duty, completing 6 of 9 for a TD and giving Schnellenberger something to think about at QB before Owls' home debut in new stadium on Saturday vs. WKU.
Florida State...HC Jimbo Fisher inserted QB EJ Manuel into lineup late in 2nd Q last week at Wake Forest after indicating Manuel would miss another game with a shoulder injury. But starter Clint Trickett's ineffectiveness forced Jimbo's hand. Manuel completed 19 of 25 passes for 286 yards and 2 TDs, but also suffered 2 picks in 35-30 loss to Deacs.
Georgia Tech...Jackets getting a little thin at LB, with impact starter OLB Jeremiah Attaochu (God bless you!) and former-RB-turned-MLB Daniel Drummond both out last week vs. Maryland with leg injuries.
Hawaii...Warriors hope to have explosive slot-back Jeremiah Ostrowski, UH's leading receiver early in season before going down with foot injury, available for Friday's game at San Jose State.
Kentucky...It's gone from bad to worse for HC Joker Phillips, who yanked QB Morgan Newton for a third straight week in Saturday's 54-3 loss at South Carolina. True frosh Maxwell Smith continues to be an ineffective alternative, however, as Cats ended with as many completions (4) as picks (4) in ugly defeat. Newton again returned to lineup in 2nd half after Smith's poor performance.
Maryland...HC Randy Edsall pulled ineffective starting QB Danny O'Brien in 2nd Q last week at Georgia Tech. RS soph backup C.J. Brown took a while to ignite and only completed 4 of 17 passes in relief, but got Terps moving in 4th Q and ended up with 124 YR (including a 77-yard TD run) as late Maryland rally fell short in 21-16 loss.
Middle Tennessee...Blue Raiders getting a bit nicked up at RB, with top rusher Benjamin Cunningham (276 YR) missing Thursday's loss to Western Kentucky with a foot injury and expected to be out 4-6 weeks, and D.D. Kyles also injured his leg late vs. Tops. Soph William Pratcher, however, stepped in nicely vs. WKU with 106 YR.
Minnesota...Skidding Gophers regained services of QB MarQueis Gray last week at Purdue, as he came on in relief of ineffective true frosh starter Max Shortell late in 1nd Q of ugly 45-17 loss at Purdue. Gray, sidelined with a toe injury previously, completed 8 of 20 vs. Boilermakers but was victimized by a pick for a TD by Purdue DB Ricardo Allen on his first series of the game.
Mississippi State...HC Dan Mullen yanked ineffective starting QB Chris Relf in 3rd Q last week at UAB, then watched RS soph Tyler Russell ignite Bulldogs immediately upon his entrance into game, leading a TD drive on first possession and ending up with 3 TD passes in 21-3 win over Blazers.
Navy...Rugged top rusher Alexander Teich (406 YR) was suspended for disciplinary reasons by HC Ken Niumatalolo last week vs. Southern Miss. Midshipmen still gained 421 rushing yards but lost 63-35 to Golden Eagles.
Nevada...Leading rusher Mike Ball (374 YR) was held out of Fremont Cannon battle vs. UNLV with ankle injury. That didn't hurt Wolf Pack in 37-0 romp past Rebels, however. Neither did absence of PK Anthony Martinez (hip), as replacement Allen Hardison kicked three FGs in satisfying rout over hated rival.
Ohio State...True frosh QB Braxton Miller, who had impressed much of the night, was KO'd by a knee injury in 2nd half last Saturday at Nebraska. Backup and former starter Joe Bauserman was again ineffective in relief, completing just 1-of-10 passes as Buckeyes blew a 27-6 lead in eventual numbing 34-27 loss to Cornhuskers. OSU hopes to regain services of RB Dan Herron from suspension this week vs. Illinois.
Oregon...Nation's leading rusher LaMichael James exited last Thursday's 43-15 win over Cal with dislocated elbow that might keep him out a few weeks. Capable backups De'Anthony Thomas and Kenjon Barner should effectively pick up slack if James misses upcoming action, such as this week vs. Arizona State.
Oregon State...With top rusher Malcolm Agnew still sidelined with hamstring problems, RS soph Jovan Stevenson stepped up and finally gave Beavers a ground game last week vs. Arizona, gaining 99 YR in 37-27 win over Cats, OSU's first success of season. Stevenson, however, suffered a mild concussion late in game, so check status for BYU game this week.
San Jose State...RB Brandon Rutley, among nation's rush leaders with 501 yards, sat out last Saturday's game at BYU with a sprained ankle. San Jose infantry bogged down in his absence vs. Cougars.
South Carolina...The latest benching of QB Stephen Garcia (4 TDP, 9 picks) by HC Steve Spurrier might be a permanent one, based upon soph Connor Shaw's 4 TDP performance in Gamecocks' 54-3 romp past Kentucky last Saturday. SC's 639 yards of offense vs. the Cats were the most by an SC team since Spurrier arrived in 2005.
Southern Miss...Leading rusher Kendrick Harvey (shoulder) missed last week's game at Navy, but Golden Eagles didn’t skip a beat with Jeremy Hester's 118 YR and 82 more from Trey Lampley in 63-35 rout of Mids at Annapolis.
Tennessee...Top RB Tauren Poole went down with a hamstring injury on first half of last week's 20-12 loss vs. Georgia. Vols could not generate any infantry production in his absence, finishing with -20 YR. QB Tyler Bray then suffered a thumb injury deep in the 4th Q and was replaced by Matt Simms, who led Vols to a late TD. Bray could miss up to 6 weeks, with Simms (who started the first portion of the 2010 season) back in the lineup until further notice.
Texas Tech...Red Raiders were minus leading rusher RB Eric Stephens (555 YR and 8 TDs) with a knee injury last week vs. Texas A&M.
UAB...Blazers were again minus QB Bryan Ellis (concussion) last week vs. Mississippi State. But UAB has covered three straight games with backup QB Jonathan Perry at controls.
UCLA...Bruins have lost QB Richard Brehaut for at least a few weeks after ankle injury suffered last week vs. Washington State. Former starter Kevin Prince, who has durability issues, stepped in nicely vs. Cougars, however, completing 8 of 13 passes and tossing 2 TDs as Bruins rallied for 28-25 win.
Utah...QB Jordan Wynn is now expected to miss the rest of the season after his shoulder injury suffered Oct. 1 vs. Washington. Backup Jon Hays has been uninspiring in relief, tossing 3 picks in Saturday 35-14 loss to Arizona State, the second straight home defeat for disappointing Utes, still looking for their first conference win as a member of Pac-12 (Utah 0-3 in league play).
This Week in the ACC
By Marc Lawrence
Cellar Dwellers
Residing in last place at 0-2 in the ACC Coastal Division is hardly where new head coach Al Golden expected his Hurricanes to be.
As a result several jobs are up for grabs.
"We're looking for someone to step up and practice and perform at the championship level," Golden said. "We need some inexperienced or young guys to step up and assume some of that responsibility."
Golden went on to say, "We have a lot of guys that are looking to see if they are on the highlight reel, on the blogs, a preseason this or that. Many of the kids think they are way better than they are."
The team is ranked 83rd in the nation in penalties, averaging 6.8 infractions a game.
"We had 85 yards in penalties in Blacksburg," Golden said. "That's embarrassing to me as the head coach. We shouldn't have that. A lot of penalties were things we could control."
In facing North Carolina this week, Golden said. "They're the best team that we've seen so far this year. There's no question about it. Their quarterback is playing really well. They have the most talented offensive line. They're running the ball real well. On defense they are really physical up front. This should be a great test for us."
Meanwhile, motivation is a key to the Tar Heels' strong start after three straight years with eight wins.
"We're tired of being 8-5," UNC CB Jabari Price said. "We think 8-5 is a mediocre performance and this team is far from mediocre. We're shooting for the stars this year."
Tiger Alert
Tigers' coach Dabo Swinney insists this team is far from the Clemson team that was favored but lost at Maryland, 24-21 at 12.5-point chalk, in 2009.
"I've been beat before," Swinney said. "But in 2009 we just didn't take care of business." He does not believe this team will "lose its edge. "We just try to really dial them in. You can't get complacent or start reading press clippings."
Meanwhile, QB Tajh Boyd took every snap in practice Tuesday and according to Swinney is fine after leaving Saturday's game with Boston College with a hip pointer.
Boyd leads the ACC in passing (290 yards per game) and total offense (310 yards per game).
His main target, freshman sensation WR Sammy Watkins, was named ACC Rookie of the Week after grabbing seven passes for 152 yards in Saturday's win against the Eagles, his third game with 140 receiving yards.
Watkins is first in the ACC with 623 receiving yards. Watkins also has six TD catches, a Clemson freshman record.
Terrapins' LB Demetrius Hartsfield, who has a team-high 51 tackles, including three for a loss, left Saturday's 21-16 loss to Georgia Tech with an undisclosed injury. The Terrapins finished the game with starting LBs Kenny Tate, Darin Drakeford and Hartsfield all on the sideline with injuries.
Down But Not Out
FSU coach Jimbo Fisher remains confident despite three consecutive losses.
"I feel good," Fisher said. "I mean, I know the answers. I know what to do. I've just got to get it done. I know how to go about it. We have enough talent to do it."
Starting QB EJ Manuel, back after hurting his shoulder in the Seminoles loss against Oklahoma a month ago, is hopeful a players-only meeting this week will help get Florida State, loser of three straight games back on track.
"A lot of guys were very upset and still are upset, but I think we addressed a lot of that," Manuel said.
Fisher had planned only to play Manuel last Saturday against Wake Forest in an emergency. Manuel relieved a struggling QB Clint Trickett late in the second quarter in the 35-30 defeat.
"He talked me into it and he actually played pretty well," Fisher said.
Nervous Techsters
Georgia Tech DC Al Groh, the former Virginia head coach, called the Cavaliers' off week last week a significant advantage.
"They've had four extra practices [to break us down]," he said. "And there are quite a few people over there who were part of our defensive staff, so they have a pretty good idea of what we're teaching over here."
UVA coach Mike London confirmed Groh's thoughts.
"Because of their option attack and 3-4 defense, it provides a bit of extra preparation," London said. "We spent most of it taking care of ourselves, getting healthier, then addressing the challenge this type of offense presents, as well as their defense."
Jackets' head coach Paul Johnson sees the Cavs as a dangerous opponent.
"They've lost two games, and the teams that beat them are 5-1," he said. "I'm sure their backs are against the wall, they've had an off week and they're going to come out ready to play."
Wake Up Defense
Wake Forest's defense has improved this season, ranking 26th nationally in total defense (324.6 ypg) compared to 100th in 2010 (429.6 ypg).
"They give you a lot of different looks, throw a lot of different things at you," Virginia Tech QB Logan Thomas said. "They try to confuse you, and they do a pretty good job of it."
VPI head coach Frank Beamer said Monday that Wake Forest Coach Jim Grobe would get his mid-season vote for ACC coach of the year.
"They're just a much, much-improved football team from last year," Beamer said. "They had all those young guys playing last year. Now, they know what they're doing."
From The Database
• ACC Head-to-Head: Clemson is 0-4 ATS off back-to-back wins versus the Terrapins… Florida State is 16-0 SU and 10-6 ATS versus the Blue Devils, including 5-1 ATS away… Georgia Tech is 1-3-1 Su and 1-4 ATS as a favorite versus the Cavaliers… North Carolina is 3-0 SU and ATS in its last three games versus the Hurricanes… Virginia Tech is 3-0 SU and ATS since entering the ACC versus the Deacon Demons.
• ACC Coaches: Clemson's Dabo Swinney is 11-4 ATS as a conference favorite… Duke's David Cutcliife is 8-3 ATS as a dog with rest… Georgia Tech's Paul Johnson is 32-14-1 ATS away… Maryland's Randy Edsall is 17-7-1 ATS at home in conference games, including 10-3 as a dog… Virginia's Mike London is 2-7 ATS in ACC games… Virginia Tech's Frank Beamer is 18-6-2 ATS off a win versus an opponent off a win.
• STAT OF THE WEEK: Al Golden is 9-1 ATS in his career as a conference dog in games off a loss.
Big 12 News and Notes
By Nick Parsons
Good news for the conference off the field, with TCU deciding to join the Big 12 for next season. It’s tough to lose Texas A&M, but in recent years the Horned Frogs have been the more successful program and the Dallas-Forth Worth area is arguably a better market than College Station.
With that aside, it was a crazy past weekend for the Big 12. Oklahoma romped Texas 55-17, Missouri’s battle with KSU lived up to the hype, while almost 100 points were scored in Oklahoma State’s 70-28 beatdown of Kansas
Here is a look at what we have to look forward to in the Big 12 this Saturday:
Canceled Flight?
Texas Tech’s Air Raid offense and their 4 game “over” streak, will be put to the test against the best defense in the Big 12. Kansas State are +3 point road dogs but are a perfect 5-0 this season, and that is mostly a result of their defense which is only allowing 16.6 points per game. Quite impressive considering the nature of this conference.
The Missouri game was a proving point, as the they held the Tigers to just 326 total yards. Impressive considering that Missouri had 532 yards against Oklahoma.
Linebacker Arthur Brown has received most of the attention, but this week the secondary will have to come up big, especially against an Air Raid offense that is outscoring opponents 45.8 to 27.2. Two names that have not received much attention are safeties Ty Zimmerman and Tysyn Hartman, "We’ve been flying under the radar for awhile, “ Hartman stated, “but if we put up the numbers we did in the first few games, I don’t think that’s going to happen anymore."
Cowboys and the Cattle
This is the first time that the Longhorns have been underdogs in Austin to the Cowboys, but the last two years have been different for this once dominant program. Any memories of the Texas of old were erased in a humiliating 55-17 loss in the Red River Shootout (sorry I refuse to refer to it by its official name “Red River Rivalry”).
Things don’t get easier this week, with an undefeated Oklahoma State team that is averaging an NCAA high 51.4 points per game. Most book however have moved the number down from its opening line of -8 to -7.5.
Texas does hold 22-3 head to head advantage in this series but Brandon Weeden will look to close out his career with a perfect record over the Longhorns. In OSU’s 33-16 victory last year, Weeden went 29 for 43 and threw for 409 yards. This year he has an incredible 75.8 completion rate and should past the 2000 yard mark this Saturday as he already has 1880 yards passing.
The 28 year old former New York Yankee prospect shouldn’t be too intimidated by the Longhorn crowd or their defense. “I really just enjoy going on the road and playing. I think it’s fun to go into other people’s places and use that negative energy or the vibes and use it positive in our way.”
That 70s Total
We have two more Big 12 games with totals over 70: Baylor at Texas A&M is listed at 75, while Oklahoma Kansas is at 71.5. Both games last week that had totals over 70 easily went over.
With the exception of Kansas State, one can expect big totals in future Big 12 games. Key factor is the pace by which most teams are playing at in the conference. 5 of the top 10 teams in plays per game this season are from the Big 12, with Texas Tech leading the charge at 89.5.
There was the common thinking, and by myself as well, that closer match-ups with teams on the same level would see this number reduced. This was not the case in the Texas A&M Texas Tech game which saw A&M come out on top 45-40.
Baylor at Texas A&M is an interesting match-up with both teams desperate for a win. Defensive coordinators on both ends may actually look to slow down the pace of the game, but in all honestly it is tough to gauge that pregame. In this case live betting may be your best option.
Big Ten Betting News and Notes
By Covers.com
Red Scare
The first Nebraska-Ohio State showdown under the lights in Lincoln was supposed to determine a conference front runner. The game ended up being an elimination contest with the loser falling to 0-2 in the conference.
Ohio State somehow found a way to be that loser despite holding a 27-6 lead in the second half. Quarterback Braxton Miller injured his ankle in the third quarter and was replaced by Joe Bauserman, who could do no right. Bauserman completed one pass to his team and one pass to Nebraska. His other eight passes fell incomplete. He threw for only 13 yards and helped Nebraska get back into the game.
Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez was just the opposite in helping the Cornhuskers storm back and win, 34-27. After a week of heavy criticism, Martinez threw for 191 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 102 yards and a touchdown.
“He kept fighting,” Huskers head coach Bo Pelini told reporters. “He led the team and I was proud of how he played. Everyone wants to doubt him. You guys can choose to write whatever you want and attack him like the fans will, and now they’ll praise him.”
A saving grace for Ohio State backers was that when Nebraska was up 34-27 late in the game as a 10-point favorite, the Buckeyes decided to kneel on the ball once they got into the Ohio State red zone.
Scarlet Fever
There are a number of streaks on the line when Ohio State hosts unbeaten No. 16 Illinois as it tries to save its season. Ohio State (3-3, 0-2) has not been under .500 since losing the season opener to Miami in 1999. It has not been below .500 later than Oct. 1 since 1988. It has not failed to reach a bowl game since 1999. A loss would make it hard for Ohio State to reach the required six wins.
But there is good news, Buckeye quarterback Braxton Miller is likely to play. An Ohio State spokesperson said, “Well, he’s No. 1 on our depth chart.” Miller passed and rushed for more than 90 yards in just over two quarters of football before suffering a game-changing ankle injury. The Buckeyes led 27-13 with Miller and were outscored 21-0 without him.
In another sign of how far the Ohio State program has fallen, Illinois is a 4.5-point favorite in Champagne Saturday. The Illini have not been favored against Ohio State since 2001. Illinois is 4-2 ATS against Ohio State at home but in the last six meetings, Ohio State has been favored by an average of 19 points.
Must win
The only Big Ten game not involving a ranked team Saturday might be one of the most important games in the conference, when Northwestern (2-3, 0-2) visits Iowa (3-2, 0-1). A quick glance at the teams’ records lets you know how devastating another conference loss would be.
Iowa is coming off an awful offensive performance in a 13-3 loss at Penn State. But after Northwestern, it plays Big Ten bottom-feeders Indiana and Minnesota before two huge games at home against Michigan and Michigan State. The schedule favors the Hawkeyes to make a run at the Legends Division, but a loss to Northwestern would end that dream.
Northwestern is coming off losses over ranked opponents Illinois and Michigan, in which it blew double-digit leads. Worse yet in Week 3, the Wildcats lost to Army.
“It’s frustrating,” Northwestern quarterback Dan Persa told the media. “But we have no one else to blame but ourselves. We have to look inside ourselves to see what we need to do to pull it out.”
Iowa is a 6-point favorite at Kinnick Stadium Saturday night, although. history has favored Northwestern in this series. They have won three in a row and three in a row at Kinnick Stadium.
No team in college football has consistently pulled off more upsets against one opponent than Northwestern over Iowa. Last season it won 21-17 as a 10-point underdog, in 2009 it won 17-10 as a 14-point underdog, in 2008 it won 22-17 as a 9.5-point underdog and in 2006 it won 21-7 as a 20.5-point underdog.
In need of a bye
The Minnesota Vikings won their first game this week, giving them as many wins as their cross-town collegiate brethren, the Minnesota Golden Gophers (1-5, 0-2). The Golden Gophers will not lose this Saturday for a change - they have a much-needed bye week after starting the season 1-5 and 0-2 in the Big Ten.
Since promising early season results, that included a 19-17 loss at USC and a 29-23 win over Miami (Ohio), the wheels have fallen off Jerry Kill’s bunch. There was the 37-24 loss to FCS school North Dakota State and then there were the Big Ten blowout losses at Michigan and Purdue, where Minnesota was outscored 103-17. In the loss to Purdue, Kill used 59 different players, including 32 freshmen and sophomores. Seven freshmen were actually starting for Minnesota, so at least there is an attempt at rebuilding.
“It’s frustrating for those kids in there. They go to practice, they work hard to try and get better – you don’t think they’re frustrated,” Kill said after Minnesota’s latest loss. “I feel bad for them, I really do.”
Underrated?
For once, you can make an argument that the constantly overrated Nittany Lions are underrated. Very quietly, Penn State is 5-1, 2-0 in the Big Ten and back in the rankings at No. 25 with a very winnable game at noon for homecoming as a 12.5-point favorite against Purdue Saturday.
Penn State’s only loss was to No. 3 Alabama. Its offense is horrendous, ranking 93rd in the country in points, but its business as usual on defense where Penn State has allowed 10.5 points per game (fifth best in the country).
“We were better physically,” Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Bradley told reporters after a 13-3 win over Iowa on Saturday. “We kind of put our will on them.”
The schedule favors Penn State in the coming weeks. After the Purdue game, Penn State visits Northwestern before hosting Illinois and Nebraska with a bye week in-between those two games.
The closing stretch is not easy with road trips to Ohio State and Wisconsin. If Penn State can win four of its five down the stretch, the road trip to Madison could decide the Leaders Division.
Rankings Report
The Big Ten has a pair of teams in the Top 10 and four teams in the Top 15. No. 4 Wisconsin and No. 10 Michigan both crept up a spot in the latest Coaches Poll. No. 14 Nebraska, No. 15 Illinois, No. 19 Michigan State and No. 25 Penn State give the Big Ten a season-high six ranked teams.
In the Harris poll, the second-third of the BCS standings along with the coaches’ poll and computer rankings, No. 4 Wisconsin, No. 10 Michigan, No. 13 Nebraska, No. 14 Illinois and No. 22 Michigan State are ranked. The first BCS rankings will come out next week.
Early showdown
No. 23 Michigan State (4-1, 1-0) hosts No. 11 Michigan (6-0, 2-0) in East Lansing at noon. It is an early kickoff for a made-for-TV showdown and it’s early in the season as most rivalries occur in November.
Michigan State has held onto the Paul Bunyan Trophy since 2008. Last season, Michigan State won, 34-17, in Ann Arbor. The Spartans defense is ranked No. 1 in the country while the Wolverines are averaging 38 points per game. Michigan State is a 3-point favorite.
Games to Watch - Week 7
By Brian Edwards
Michigan vs. Michigan State
As of early Wednesday afternoon, most betting shops had Michigan St. installed as a two-point favorite with a total of 48½. The Spartans, who had an open date to prep for their arch rival, have won three in a row over Michigan both straight up and against the spread. Mark Dantonio's team is coming off a 10-7 win at Ohio St. as a three-point underdog. As a home favorite during Dantonio's five-year tenure, Michigan St. owns a 12-12-1 spread record. The 'under' is 4-1 for the Spartans this year. Michigan has won its first six games on Brady Hoke's watch and emerged victorious from its road trip last week. The Wolverines trailed Northwestern 24-14 at halftime, but they scored 28 unanswered points in the second half. Denard Robinson shook off three interceptions to throw for a pair of touchdowns and rush for two more scores. Robinson has 1,130 passing yards with a 10/9 touchdown-to-interception ratio. He's also rushed for 720 yards and eight TDs. When MSU won 34-17 in Ann Arbor last year, Robinson had three turnovers, including a pair of picks in the red zone.
Oklahoma State vs. Texas
As of early Wednesday afternoon, most spots had Oklahoma St. listed as a 7½-point 'chalk' with a total of 64½. Texas was plus-250 to win outright (risk $100 to win $250). Mike Gundy's team hung a 70-spot on Kansas in a backyard shellacking last week. Brandon Weeden completed 24-of-28 passes for 288 yards and five TDs without being intercepted, as the Cowboys scored 56 points in the first half. When these Big 12 rivals met in Austin last year, Weeden threw for 409 yards in a 33-16 OSU win that ended a long losing streak against the Longhorns. Texas is looking to bounce back from its first loss of the year, a 55-17 setback to Oklahoma in Dallas. Since 2001, Mack Brown's team has only been a home underdog twice and it failed to take the cash in each instance. As for OSU, it owns a 12-3 spread record as a road 'chalk' on Gundy's watch, covering the number in eight consecutive such spots. Both teams have seen the 'over' go 3-2 overall this year.
Baylor vs. Texas A&M
Baylor at Texas A&M - Most spots have Texas A&M listed as a nine-point 'chalk' with a sky-high total of 75. The Aggies responded to back-to-back losses by winning 45-40 at Texas Tech last week, but they failed to hook up their backers for the fourth straight time. Baylor is off a 49-26 win over Iowa St. thanks to another brilliant performance from QB Robert Griffin III, who has 19 TD passes compared to just one interception. Griffin has also rushed for 280 yards and a pair of scores. The Bears are 8-5 ATS as road 'dogs under Art Briles, while Texas A&M has a 9-7 ATS mark as a home favorite on Mike Sherman's watch. The 'over' is 4-0 for the Bears, 3-2 for the Aggies.
Miami, Florida vs. North Carolina
Miami, Fl. at North Carolina - Most spots have North Carolina installed as a three-point favorite with a total of 51. UNC won a 14-7 decision over Louisville at home last week, while Miami came up on the short end of a 38-35 score at Va. Tech. Jacory Harris threw three TD passes against the Hokies, rallying his team from a 14-point halftime deficit to take the lead in the final stanza. However, the defense gave up a late score at crunch time. The Tar Heels have won three of the last four against the Hurricanes, but Miami drilled UNC 33-10 last year. The 'under' is 4-2 for the Heels this year, 8-1 in their last nine home outings. The 'over' is 3-2 for UM.
Virginia Tech vs. Wake Forest
Virginia Tech at Wake Forest - From Sunday-Wednesday, there was zero movement in this number. Most books opened Va. Tech as a seven-point favorite with the total at 49. Gamblers can back Wake Forest on the money line for a plus-220 return (risk $100 to win $220). Frank Beamer's squad is mired in an abysmal 0-5 ATS slide, including a 23-3 home loss to Clemson two weeks ago. Wake Forest is coming off a 35-30 upset win over FSU as a 10-point home underdog. The win and cover improved the Demon Deacons to 16-7-1 ATS as home 'dogs during Jim Grobe's tenure. The Hokies have prevailed in each of their last seven trips to Winston-Salem, where they haven't tasted defeat since 1970. The 'over' is 4-1 for Wake, but the 'under' is 4-2 for VT.
Florida vs. Auburn
Florida at Auburn - I made Auburn a three-point favorite for this game and most spots opened Gene Chizik's team as a two-point 'chalk' early Sunday night. However, as of Wednesday, the Gators were listed as the two-point favorites with the total at 49½. This is a crucial contest for both schools that are coming off of blowout losses. Florida was holding its own with Alabama until QB John Brantley got hurt. Since then, UF has been outscored 58-11 in six quarters. LSU demolished Florida by a 44-11 count last week, but gamblers should keep in mind that Will Muschamp's team had to take the redshirt off of third-string QB Jacoby Brissett in Baton Rouge. Brissett is likely to start again this week with Brantley still 'out' and back-up Jeff Driskel 'questionable' with an ankle sprain. AU is also dealing with injuries as its top two WRs missed last week's 38-14 loss at Arkansas. Both wideouts, Trovon Reed and Emory Blake, are 'questionable' again this week.
College Football System Of The Week
By Cajun Sports
Last week our Cajun Sports NCAA Football System of the Week qualified a play against the Idaho Vandals in their game versus the LA Tech Bulldogs. The system produced another winner as LA Tech went into Moscow Idaho and defeated the Vandals 24 to 11 as four-point road favorites.
This week we examine college home favorites playing exceptional defense allowing less than double-digit scoring in their most recent outings. Researching home favorites gave us a broad spectrum of games so we narrowed our search and uncovered a situation that has been perfect for more than 20 seasons with 18 consecutive SU and ATS wins, beating the spread by more than two touchdowns per game on average.
SYSTEM: Play ON a home favorite of less than 5 points off allowing less than 8 points in each of its last 2 games (not 2 non-lined contests) vs. an opponent not off a conference road favorite SU loss. This system has a record of 18-0 SU and ATS since 1985 covering the spread by an average of 14.2 points per game.
We have to go back to 2008 to find the last active date for our system it was active on October 16 2008 with TCU (-1.5) facing BYU. The contest was not even close as TCU annihilated the Cougars 32 to 7. Prior to that game, the most recent active date was November 12 2005. On that date, Virginia was favored by three-points over Georgia Tech and they disposed of the Rambling Wreck 27 to 17.
This week the Michigan Wolverines travel to East Lansing to battle in-state rival Michigan State Spartans on Saturday afternoon. Michigan brings a 6-0 SU record into the contest but that record is somewhat suspect as the only two quality opponents they faced they used big breaks and turnovers for the victory. The Michigan State squad they will face has the Number 1 defense in the country allowing just 173 yards per game.
Michigan State held their last two opponents to less than eight points defeating Central Michigan 45 to 7 back on September 24 and defeating Ohio State at the Shoe 10 to 7 back on October 1. MSU is holding opponents to 64 yards rushing per game on 2.2 yards per carry and this against teams that would normally average 163 yards rushing on 4.5 yards per carry. We note that Michigan is 0-8 ATS versus teams allowing 3.25 or fewer yards per carry the last three seasons.
With all the system parameters met, this week’s CAJUN SPORTS NCAA Football SYSTEM of the Week qualifies the Michigan State Spartans as our Play ON team of the week. Play the Spartans minus the points over the Wolverines on Saturday in East Lansing Michigan.
Big 10 Report - Week 7
By ASA
Michigan State (-2.5) vs. Michigan
MSU: 4-1 SU, 3-2 ATS - Last week: BYE
MICH: 6-0 SU, 5-1 ATS - Last week: at Northwestern, W 42-24
Michigan State has won - and covered - three straight against its in-state rival for the first time since 1965-67. Last year was a very similar situation as both teams were undefeated. Michigan State got a lop-sided 34-17 victory, but the score could've been a lot closer as Michigan QB Robinson threw three interceptions, two of which on the goal-line as the Wolverines were about to put points on the board.
Michigan responded well to adversity after falling behind 24-14 at Northwestern last week and outscored the Wildcats 28-0 in the 2nd half to get a big victory on the road. Denard Robinson was a one-man wrecking crew with 450 yards (337 passing, 113 rushing) and four touchdowns (2 rush, 2 pass). He has this offense averaging 458 yards per game (26th nationally) and 38 points per game (21st) but they'll face their stiffest challenge yet against this MSU defense.
MSU has the top ranked defense in all of college football and the 3rd best scoring defense, as the Spartans are allowing just 173 yards per game and 10.2 points per game. In their last game against Ohio State, the Spartans surrendered just 178 total yards (35 rush yards on 39 attempts) and 7 points.
This is right about the time of the year when Michigan has imploded after a fast start. In 2009 the Wolverines started 4-0 before a 1-7 finish and in 2010 they started 5-0 before a 2-6 finish. This year they are 6-0 and will try and avoid the same fate as years past.
Something to consider: Michigan State 8-17-1 ATS in its last 26 Big Ten home games. The Spartans have only been favored twice in home games against Michigan over the past 30 years (1-1 ATS & SU).
Illinois (-4) vs. Ohio State
ILL: 6-0 SU, 3-3 ATS - Last week: at Indiana, W 41-20
OSU: 3-3 SU, 3-3 ATS - Last week: at Nebraska, L 27-34
Illinois escaped its first road trip of the season unscathed with a big win over Indiana last week. The Illini are back home for the sixth time in seven games this season and this game should prove whether they belong in the upper-echelon of the Big Ten. Ohio State has dropped two straight conference games and is now desperate for a win especially considering that #4 Wisconsin looming next on the schedule. Illinois hasn't been favored against Ohio State since 2001 until now.
OSU appeared to be on its way to a breakout win over Nebraska last week with a 27-6 lead midway through the 3rd quarter. But the Buckeyes had a devastating collapse in the final 1.5 quarters and left Lincoln demoralized with a 27-34 loss. The Buckeyes defense is strong enough to keep them in games (22nd in total yards allowed and 18th in points allowed). But this offense continues to be a work in progress as it ranks 105th in total yards and 86th in points per game.
Sophomore QB Scheelhaase has developed a nice rapport with WR Jenkins this season. Jenkins has been on the receiving end of 66% of Scheelhaase's yards and 7 of 10 touchdown passes this season. However, it's the Illini's stop-unit that has lifted this team to a 6-0 mark. This unit ranks 15th in yards allowed and 17th in points allowed.
Something to consider: The Illini have dropped 11 of the last 14 meetings with the Buckeyes, but Ohio State is just 3-7 ATS in its last 10 meetings with Illinois and 1-4 ATS the last five trips to Champaign.
Iowa (-6.5) vs. Northwestern
IOWA: 3-2 SU, 2-3 ATS - Last week: at Penn State, L 3-13
NW: 2-3 SU, 2-3 ATS - Last week: vs. Michigan, L 24-42
This is a huge game for both teams as each is off of a loss and neither can afford another conference setback. Northwestern has had Iowa's number in recent years, winning three straight and five of six overall - including a 3-0 mark in Iowa City. Interestingly enough, the Wildcats were underdogs in all five wins and favored in the only loss.
Quarterback James Vandenberg struggled mightily for the first time this season against Penn State last week. He completed just 17-of-34 passes for 169 yards and led his team to just 3 points (Iowa failed to score a touchdown for the first time in 48 games). Vandenberg threw two interceptions and was sacked five times, and received little help from his receiving corps.
QB Persa makes a difference on this Northwestern offense (72% with 4 touchdowns and an interception since returning from injury two weeks ago), but the Wildcats defense has given up big leads in each of the past two games. This stop unit ranks 106th against the pass, 100th in total defense, and has allowed 80 points combined to its last two opponents.
Something to consider: Northwestern is 2-8 ATS in their last 10 conference games but 12-2 ATS its last 14 as a road underdog. Iowa is 30-12-1 ATS following a loss.
Wisconsin (-40) vs. Indiana
WISC: 5-0 SU, 4-1 ATS - Last week: BYE
IND: 1-5 SU, 3-3 ATS - Last week: vs. Illinois, L 20-41
The Badgers destroyed the Hoosiers 83-20 last season (most points scored by UW since 1915) and while it will be difficult to score 83 again, this Badgers offense could come close. Wisconsin is averaging 523 yards (9th nationally) and 48.4 points (3rd) offensively. QB Wilson is the front-runner for the Heisman trophy and RB Ball is on pace to shatter the Big Ten record for touchdowns as he already has 14 scores through just five games. However, it's Wisconsin's defense that has been the surprise this season. The Badgers are only allowing 264 yards per game (7th) and 10.2 points per game (4th).
The Hoosiers' only win this season came against FCS South Carolina State. They've dropped their first two Big Ten games at home against Penn State and Illinois and now travel to hostile Madison to face the juggernaut that is the Wisconsin Badgers. Indiana ranks near the bottom of every major offensive and defensive category - 87th in total offense and 97th in total defense.
All signs point to another Wisconsin blowout in this one; however, there are a few things to be weary about with this 40-point spread (the largest point spread for any Big Ten conference game since 1997). Wisconsin is off of a bye after a huge win against Nebraska and it has a revenge game at Michigan State next week. The Badgers could be flat and play sloppy for a few quarters. Or they could call off the dogs once they get a big lead to keep key players healthy for next week.
Something to consider: Since 2002, there have been only 15 occasions when a Big Ten team has been favored by 25+ points against another Big Ten team. Those favored are 10-5 ATS.
Penn State (-12) vs. Purdue
PSU: 5-1 SU, 1-5 ATS - Last week: vs. Iowa, W 13-3
PU: 3-2 SU, 2-3 ATS - Last week: vs. Minnesota, W 45-17
These two last met in 2008, but Penn State has defeated Purdue four straight times by an average 13 points per game. The Nittany Lions have held the Boilermakers without an offensive touchdown in 11 straight quarters.
Penn State's defense stepped up nicely against last week shutting down Iowa's offense to the tune of 253 yards and 3 points (forced three turnovers). The Nittany Lions now boast the nation's 4th best total defense and 5th best scoring defense. This stop-unit will need to continue to step-up because PSU's offense is averaging just 17.6 points per game its last five games.
Purdue had a momentum building 45-17 victory over lowly Minnesota last week. Quarterbacks TerBush and Marve combined to complete 18-of-27 passes for 155 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions and the Boilers had three rushing touchdowns. This team is still a work in progress and will have a much more difficult time against this Penn State defense that has allowed two touchdowns in its past four games.
Something to consider: Purdue is 3-16 in road games over the past 3+ seasons (lost its only other road game this season at Rice 22-24).
Nebraska - BYE
NEB: 5-1 SU, 1-5 ATS - Last week: vs. Ohio State, W 34-27
Nebraska heads into its off week with a sigh of relief after the comeback win over Ohio State. The Huskers scored 28 unanswered points to erase a 21-point deficit and notch their first conference win as a member of the Big Ten. The porous defense continues as the Blackshirts are allowing 27.2 points per game. Still, this is a dangerous offense and is a team to watch heading into the 2nd half of the season. Next up is a tune-up game at Minnesota before a home meeting with Michigan State.
Minnesota - BYE
MINN: 1-5 SU, 2-4 ATS - Last week: at Purdue, L 17-45
Things are really bad for Jerry Kill's squad. The Gophers have dropped back-to-back Big Ten games by a combined score of 103-17. The bye week comes at a perfect time for Minnesota as the 2nd half schedule is ridiculously difficult (Nebraska, Iowa, @MSU, Wisconsin, @Northwestern, and Illinois). Barring a miraculous turnaround, Minnesota will be double-digit underdogs the rest of the way.
College Football Top 25 Betting Cheat Sheet: Week 7
By Adam Thompson
Purdue Boilermakers at Penn State Nittany Lions (-11.5, 39.5)
Why Purdue will cover: The Boilermakers got on a roll last week and should be confident. An expected low-scoring game favors the dog. PSU is 1-5 ATS.
Why Penn State will cover: The Lions’ defense is among the nation’s best, fifth in points allowed (10.5). Purdue has played one respectable team, Notre Dame, and got blown out 38-10.
Points: The under has hit in all six of PSU’s games, but that’s easily the lowest number it’s seen.
Indiana Hoosiers at Wisconsin Badgers (-39.5, 60.5)
Why Indiana will cover: That’s a big spread for a conference game, and IU is 3-3 ATS.
Why Wisconsin will cover: UW is firing on all cylinders, ranking No. 3 in scoring (48.4) and No. 4 in scoring defense (10.2). The Badgers’ run game has destroyed everyone, and IU ranks 119th against the run. UW is 4-0-1 ATS.
Points: The over is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings. Last year, UW scored 83 in last year’s meeting with the Hoosiers.
South Carolina Gamecocks at Mississippi State Bulldogs (+5, 48)
Why South Carolina will cover: The Gamecocks’ D ranks No. 8 against the pass. MSU is a dismal 1-5 ATS. The Bulldogs’ QB situation isn’t good right now, which won’t help if the Gamecocks get an early lead.
Why Mississippi State will cover: MSU prefers to run the ball (27th) and that is an area of some concern for USC (60th).
Points: The under has hit in MSU’s in nine of the team’s last 11 SEC games.
Michigan Wolverines at Michigan State Spartans (-1.5, 49)
Why Michigan will cover: The Wolverines at 5-1 ATS because nobody can slow down QB Denard Robinson, who’s already rushed for 720 yards and thrown for 1,130 more.
Why Michigan State will cover: The Spartans’ defense has been tough, ranking No. 3 in points allowed, No. 3 in run yards and No. 2 in pass yards.
Points: The over is 6-2 in Michigan’s last eight in the Big Ten, but the under is 4-1 for MSU so far.
Baylor Bears at Texas A&M Aggies (-9.5, 75)
Why Baylor will cover: Baylor’s offense is a two-dimensional juggernaut, averaging 324 ypg passing and 239 more rushing. Texas A&M is the nation’s worst team against the pass.
Why Texas A&M will cover: Texas A&M has butted heads with Oklahoma State and Arkansas, losing both by a combined five points. Nothing will surprise the Aggies, especially at home.
Points: That’s a boatload of points. Then again, the teams combine to average 85 ppg, and the over is 4-0 for Baylor and 3-2 for Texas A&M.
LSU Tigers at Tennessee Volunteers (+15.5, 43.5)
Why LSU will cover: Unless teams have already faced Alabama, they’re not ready for the physicality that LSU will bring. Tennessee’s offense is unbalanced (11th in passing, 114th in rushing), allowing the Tigers to focus on the pass.
Why Tennessee will cover: The Vols are 7-2-2 ATS in their last 11 and that’s a decent spread for a home game. Their defense has no particular weakness.
Points: LSU opponents are finding it difficult to score, and UT’s last two have been under.
Ohio State Buckeyes at Illinois Fighting Illini (-3.5, 43)
Why Ohio State will cover: The Buckeyes showed against Nebraska that when freshman QB Braxton Miller is under center, the team can play with anyone. Dan Herron, standout RB, returns from suspension.
Why Illinois will cover: The Illini run the ball (14th) and stop the run (ninth) for success. OSU tries to do both, but isn’t doing so with the same success.
Points: The under is 7-1 in OSU’s last eight is a dog.
Oklahoma State Cowboys at Texas Longhorns (+7.5, 64.5)
Why Oklahoma State will cover: The Cowboys’ offense has been unstoppable, averaging 51.4 ppg (first) with 431 yards passing (second). They’re 5-0 ATS in their last five.
Why Texas will cover: OSU’s defense isn’t great and the Longhorns have something to prove after last week’s Red River Rivalry debacle.
Points: The over has hit in Texas’ last three, and OSU puts up points better than anyone.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Virginia Cavaliers (+7, 55.5)
Why Georgia Tech will cover: Last week was the first the Jackets didn’t cover (and the first the over didn’t hit). They still average 360 yards rushing per game. Virginia is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 in the ACC.
Why Virginia will cover: The Cavs are decent on defense, including 35th against the run. In fact, the team ranks in the upper half in every major statistic on both sides of the ball except, oddly, points scored (69th).
Points: Tech will score, Virginia can score.
Alabama Crimson Tide at Mississippi Rebels (+25.5, 44)
Why Alabama will cover: The Tide hasn’t been in a close game yet, 5-1 ATS. They’re 4-0 ATS with spreads under 29 points.
Why Mississippi will cover: SEC teams don’t typically lose by that much at home.
Points: It’s a mystery as to how Ole Miss will score, and Alabama may struggle to hit that mark alone.
Boise State Broncos at Colorado State Rams (+32, 53.5)
Why Boise State will cover: BSU has toyed with the competition, including a 33-point average margin of victory in three road games. CSU is just 1-4 ATS.
Why Colorado State will cover: The Rams are solid against the pass (12th), giving them a chance to keep the Broncos at bay long enough to hold onto the spread.
Points: Despite having the No. 13 offense, BSU games are 2-3 on the over.
Virginia Tech Hokies at Wake Forest Demon Deacons (+7, 49)
Why Virginia Tech will cover: The Hokies have one of the nation’s top defenses, and they won’t take Wake lightly, as Florida State seemingly did last week.
Why Wake Forest will cover: The Deacons opened some eyes as 10-point dogs to FSU and winning SU. Wake is 4-0 ATS in its last four, while Virginia Tech is 0-5 ATS in its last five.
Points: The over is 10-3 in Wake’s last 13 at home, and is 4-1 overall this season. The under, however, is 4-2 for the Hokies.
Kansas State Wildcats at Texas Tech Red Raiders (-3, 59.5)
Why Kansas State will cover: For the fourth straight week, K-State is a dog. The Wildcats won the last three SU. The Wildcats rank 26th in rushing (209 ypg), while Texas Tech’s run D is 115th. It’s the first game for Texas Tech without top running back Eric Stephens, on pace for 1,000 yards, injured last week and out for the season.
Why Texas Tech will cover: As usual, Texas Tech’s air attack is tough to defend (sixth in pass yards, eighth in scoring), but the defense isn’t terrible, especially against the pass (28th).
Points: The over is 4-1 for Raiders games, and K-State’s offensive strength plays into TT’s weakness.
Clemson Tigers at Maryland Terrapins (+8.5, 54)
Why Clemson will cover: The Tigers have covered in every game against BCS competition, with a passing offense (22nd) and defense (27th) that controls the pace.
Why Maryland will cover: Clemson QB Tajh Boyd will likely play through a hip injury, offering a glimmer of hope if he’s somewhat hobbled. If Maryland can get a quick lead, its defense has been decent against the pass.
Points: The under is 9-1 in Clemson’s last 10 in the ACC and is 6-2 in Maryland’s last eight as a home underdog and last three overall.
Stanford Cardinal at Washington State Cougars (+21, 63.5)
Why Stanford will cover: Though QB Andrew Luck gets the headlines, the Cardinal defense has been huge - No. 2 against the run (62 ypg) and No. 6 in points allowed (10.6). It’s a big reason why Stanford is 5-0 ATS.
Why Washington State will cover: WSU can chuck it, averaging 350 yards through the air (seventh). Stanford’s defense is just 85th against the pass, offering hope that the Cougars can put up some serious points.
Points: Scoring will not be an issue for Stanford, and if WSU can finish in the red zone, we could be in line for a shootout.
Oklahoma Sooners at Kansas Jayhawks (+34, 72)
Why Oklahoma will cover: OU is 4-1 ATS, ranks 10th in scoring and 12th in points allowed, and Kansas’ defense is the absolute worst in the nation statistically (49.4 ppg allowed).
Why Kansas will cover: KU can’t stop anyone but it can score, averaging 240 through the air and 219 on the ground. That’s a big spread against such a potentially potent offense.
Points: No way KU slows OU, but can the Jayhawks hold up their end of the bargain?
Arizona State Sun Devils at Oregon Ducks (-16, 66)
Why Arizona State will cover: ASU can throw the ball and Oregon’s defense hasn’t been stellar against it. Statistically, ASU’s defense is better than Oregon’s. Oregon is also dealing with the loss to star RB LaMichael James.
Why Oregon will cover: The Ducks are slightly under the radar compared to last year, but the offense is still No. 2 in scoring (50.2 ppg).
Points: The over is 5-1 in ASU games and 3-2 for Oregon. Both teams can tilt the scoreboard.
SEC Gambling Previews
By Alatex Sports
South Carolina -3 at Mississippi State
New quarterbacks are the theme in Starkville this week. Connor Shaw took over for Stephen Garcia last week and led the Gamecocks to their best output of the season, a 54-3 win over Kentucky. Garcia was booted from the team so there is no controversy or doubt who the starter is in South Carolina. Not so for Mississippi State however. Tyler Russell came off the bench for an ineffective Chris Relf last week in Birmingham to lead the Bulldogs to a 21-3 win over UAB. Russell was 11-of-13 for 166 yards and three touchdowns in the second half after Relf failed to put any points on the board in the first half. Dan Mullen has been coy about who will start this week for the Bulldogs, but I would think Russell gets the nod to try to revive a disappointing season thus far. South Carolina should handle either quarterback, however, as the shaky Mississippi State offensive line is the real problem. Shaw will also find it tougher sledding on the road this week.
LSU -17 at Tennessee
Tennessee also turns to a back-up quarterback this week after losing Tyler Bray to injury. Matt Simms started the first six games last year before losing his job to Bray, and he now gets a second chance. He couldn’t have picked a worse opponent to debut against however as the LSU defense has been suffocating in league play, allowing just 24 points in three games. We did see LSU give up some passing yardage to Oregon and West Virginia, but they also forced four turnovers in each of those games and rolled to easy wins. Also note that Bray and the Tennessee offense are notorious for putting up big numbers against bad teams while managing less than 300 yards of offense against both Florida and Georgia. As long as LSU doesn’t throw up a five turnover stinker, which they have yet to do this year, they should roll.
Florida -2 at Auburn
What’s new? Another game with quarterback issues for both teams. Florida plans to play two true freshmen, Jacoby Brissett and Jeff Driskel this week against Auburn, while the Tigers will stick with season long starter Barrett Trotter after benching him last week during their 38-14 loss to Arkansas. Florida’s offense has been completely ineffective since losing Brantley against Alabama, but they will face a much weaker defense. Auburn’s running game should find some holes against a Florida defense that was gashed by the ground attack of both Alabama and LSU and I trust Trotter more than either of the two Florida freshmen with the game on the line.
Alabama -25.5 at Mississippi
Randall Mackey appears to be the answer at quarterback for the Rebels after a solid performance two weeks ago in a win at Fresno. However, there is a huge difference in the Fresno defense and the one he’ll face this week. Ole Miss managed one offensive touchdown against Vandy and one the following week against Georgia, and I’d be surprised if they score one this week. The Rebels must hope that Alabama takes them very lightly – and a lot of other things go their way – in order to keep this one close.
Georgia -11 at Vanderbilt
Yet another quarterback situation at Vandy with Larry Smith injured and ineffective despite being a three-year starter. Aaron Rodgers’ little brother Jordan came off the bench last week in Vanderbilt’s loss at Alabama and showed some promise. I expect Rodgers to get the nod this week in an attempt to inject some life into an offense that has managed a measly field goal in losses to South Carolina and Alabama over the past two weeks. Vandy is pretty decent on defense, however, with 16 turnovers forced and three touchdowns scored on the year. Georgia has no issues at quarterback with Aaron Murray and the Bulldogs enter on a four-game winning streak. They may be getting a little too much respect, however, as their victims have all been mediocre teams at best. Put the Bulldogs on upset alert if Rodgers can imitate his older bro.
Ohio State at Illinois: What Bettors Need to Know
Ohio State Buckeyes at Illinois Fighting Illini (-3.5, 45)
THE STORY: Ohio State’s two biggest weapons will return to the backfield when it visits No. 15 Illinois Saturday. Senior RB Dan Herron returns from a six-game suspension and dynamic freshman QB Braxton Miller, who left last weekend’s 34-27 loss to Nebraska with an ankle injury, is expected to face a frenzied Fighting Illini defense. Illinois ranks 15th in the nation in yards allowed and leads the Big Ten in sacks. The Illini can tie the 1951 squad for the program’s best start if they can improve to 7-0 and snap an eight-game home losing streak to OSU.
TV: ABC
WEATHER: The forecast in Champaign is calling for cloudy skies and winds, blowing west from sideline to sideline, at speeds of up to 13 mph. Temperatures will be in the low 60s.
LINE MOVES: The Illini opened as 4-point home favorites and have been bet down half a point. The total opened at 43 points and has climbed to 44.5.
ABOUT OHIO STATE (3-3, 0-2 Big Ten, 3-3 ATS): The plug was pulled on the Buckeyes' offense when Miller went down with OSU leading Nebraska 27-20 in the third quarter, leaving former starter Joe Bauserman to take snaps. He completed just 1 of 10 passes and was picked off while Nebraska scored 28 unanswered points to steal the victory. The Buckeyes should get a boost from the return of Herron, who rushed for 1,155 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Starting offensive lineman Marcus Hall also returns after serving a one-game suspension last weekend.
ABOUT ILLINOIS (6-0, 2-0 Big Ten, 3-3 ATS): The Fighting Illini have a Heisman sleeper in dual-threat QB Nathan Scheelhaase. The sophomore is averaging over 264 yards of total offense, giving an already-dangerous running game extra pop. Illinois is 14th in rushing in the country, using a loaded backfield to march for 226 yards an outing. Ohio State must also keep a close eye on WR A.J. Jenkins, who is having a breakout season. The senior is fourth in the nation in receiving yards (815) and has caught seven touchdown passes – four of those scores coming on plays of 50 or more yards.
EXTRA POINTS:
1. This is the 94th meeting between Ohio State and Illinois. The Buckeyes lead the all-time series 62-30-4, including a 33-12 edge in Champaign. They’ve outscored Illinois 227-92 in the past eight games at Memorial Stadium.
2. In the last two seasons, OSU is 20-3 in games in which Herron has scored a rushing touchdown. The Buckeyes are 18-1 in games in which Herron has rushed for at least 55 yards.
3. Illinois has forced a turnover in 21 straight games, going back to Nov. 14, 2009. The Illini recovered a fumble and recorded an interception in last week’s 41-20 win over Indiana.
TRENDS:
* Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Illinois.
* Under is 5-2 in the last seven meetings.
* Home team is 5-2 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Buckeyes are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 meetings.
* Buckeyes are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings in Illinois.
PREDICTION: Illinois 24, Ohio State 17 – Illinois takes the Illibuck Trophy and stakes its claim as a true contender for the Big Ten Leaders Division crown with a win Saturday.
Arizona St. at Oregon
By Brian Edwards
Gamblers have to love the fact that one of the week’s premier games falls in the late-night slot! I’m talking about Arizona State at Oregon in a Pac-12 showdown.
As of Friday afternoon, most books were listing Oregon (4-1 straight up, 3-2 against the spread) as a 14½ point favorite with the total in the 66-67 range. Arizona St. is plus-525 on the money line at the Las Vegas Hilton (risk $100 to win $525).
Chip Kelly’s team has won four in a row since a Week 1 loss to LSU at Cowboys Stadium, going 3-1 ATS in the process. Oregon is coming off a 43-15 win over California as a 23½-point home favorite.
LaMichael James rushed 30 times for 239 yards and one touchdown, but he was lost indefinitely when he suffered a dislocated elbow in the second half. Darron Thomas threw three touchdown passes and RB De’Anthony Thomas hauled in six receptions for 114 yards and a pair of TDs.
Darron Thomas has been outstanding all year, throwing 15 TD passes compared to only two interceptions. De’Anthony Thomas has rushed for 191 yards and a pair of TDs on 25 carries and he also has a team-high 17 catches for 286 yards and four TDs.
Arizona St. (5-1 SU, 2-4 ATS) owns a 5-2-1 spread record as a double-digit underdog on Dennis Erickson’s watch. ASU has won three straight games since suffering its lone loss, a 17-14 defeat at Illinois in Week 3.
Erickson’s team is coming off a 35-14 win at Utah as a 3 ½-point road ‘chalk.’ QB Brock Osweiler connected on 25-of-41 attempts for 325 passing yards and three TDs without an interception. WR Mike Willie had seven receptions for 98 yards and two scores.
For the season, Osweiler has a 13/6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. His favorite targets are Gerell Robinson and Aaron Pflugrad, both of whom have 26 receptions apiece for seven combined TDs.
Oregon has thrived as a home favorite under Kelly, posting a 10-3-1 spread record. The Ducks are 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS at Autzen Stadium this year. As a road ‘dog under Erickson, ASU is 7-8-1 versus the number.
Oregon has won six in a row over ASU, compiling a 5-1 spread record. When these long-time rivals squared off in Tempe last season, Oregon won 42-31 as an 11 ½-point favorite.
However, Arizona St. outplayed the Ducks, out-gaining them 597-386 in the yardage department. But ASU couldn’t overcome seven turnovers, including a pick-six and a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.
The ‘over’ is 5-1 overall for ASU, 1-1 in its two road games. The ‘over’ is 3-2 overall for Oregon, but the ‘under’ has cashed at a 2-1 clip in its home outings. The ‘over’ has hit in three straight head-to-head meetings between these schools.
ESPN will have the telecast at 10:15 p.m. Eastern.
B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets
Another late-night tilt will feature Utah St. at Fresno St. as a three-point road favorite. Aggies’ freshman QB Chuckie Keeton is enjoying a banner campaign with a 9/0 TD-INT ratio. Keeton can also beat teams with his legs, rushing for 196 yards and three TDs. Utah St. is 2-0 ATS on the road this season. These schools have combined for a 9-2 record to the ‘over’ and this total is 59.
Northwestern owns an 8-2 spread record in its last 10 games as a road underdog. The Wildcats are 6 ½-point ‘dogs Saturday at Iowa.
Florida owns an 11-3 spread record in its last 14 games as a road favorite. The Gators are two-point ‘chalk’ Saturday at Auburn. They haven’t won at Auburn since 1999. AU is 2-1 SU and 3-0 ATS as a home ‘dog during Gene Chizik’s tenure.
Stanford has covered the number in six consecutive double-digit ‘chalk’ roles. The Cardinal is laying 21 at Washington St. this week.
A pair of unbeaten teams are road ‘dogs in Week 7. Michigan is catching points at Michigan St. and Kansas St. is doing the same at Texas Tech.
Boise St. has an 8-4 spread record in its last 12 games when laying 30-plus points. The Broncos are favored by 32 ½ at Colorado St.
Mississippi St. is 3-5 ATS as a home ‘dog under Dan Mullen. The Bulldogs are catching three Saturday vs. South Carolina. The Gamecocks are 6-3-1 ATS as road favorites with Steve Spurrier as their head coach.
Ole Miss has suspended four players for Saturday’s home game vs. Alabama. RB Brandon Bolden and a pair of starting offensive linemen are out along with a back-up WR. The Rebels are 0-4 ATS as home ‘dogs under Houston Nutt.
--With Air Force’s 41-27 home loss to San Diego St. on Thursday, it fell to an abysmal 1-5 ATS this year.
Las Vegas Money Moves
By Micah Roberts
Where’s all the movement this week? You’d think with all the extra cash bettors have in their pocket that we’d see more college football line movement than we have through Friday morning this week, but it’s been relatively quiet. We’re not seeing the giant moves or roller coaster movement on numbers on games like we have for the first six weeks.
Most of what drives that movement is play from the sharp groups and they’re licking their wounds from last week. Whenever the sports books lose money, it’s a pretty safe bet that the sharps did too.
The small money is still pouring in at the same rate. They’ve done very well in college football with their favorite teams. Heck, you could blindly play the current Top-5 teams every week and be 22-4-1 (85%) against the spread. Who needs to handicap when you can just fire off an Alabama, LSU, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Stanford round-robin every week, regardless of what the number is.
If you look at this week’s rotation, games 163 through 174 is a regular murderers row for the sports books with Alabama (-27), Oklahoma (-35), Boise State (-32) and Stanford (-21). It’s a sight to see all lit up on the sports book boards -- all monster numbers -- right next to each other. The built in 2-to-3 points above their rating is also already factored in an attempt to attract action on the dog side.
You know it’s going bad when the sharps know the number is off by three points, but won’t lay money down on the underdog side just because of how consistent the big popular teams are right now.
In the Crimson Tide's case, the proper number should be about -23 and the Sooners should be closer to -31, but in each case public money has flooded each of those sides making the quick moves on the favorites based on overall small money adding up.
Eventually, the inflated numbers have to catch to catch up with the public, but I’m definitely not willing to put any more money on it anytime soon.
The one heavyweight school that the sharps are` looking to bet against this week is LSU, who is a 17-point favorite at Tennessee.
“I want to stay high on LSU because it’s a big public game, but when tried out 17½, money was right there waiting for it, “ said South Point Sports Book Director Bert Osborne who currently has the game -17.
Osborne said despite the appearance of not having a lot of movement this week, the sharp players are still playing as usual, but even they don’t want too much to do with the Kansas’ and Colorado State’s of the world.
Stanford has covered all five of their games this season, but surprisingly hasn’t moved past -21½ despite the big public play on their team that has made them money all year.
“We usually disregard the public money and move almost solely on respected plays, “ said Las Vegas Hilton Super Book Assistant Manager Jeff Sherman. “We haven’t been above 21 yet with Stanford, but I think the home team (Washington State) is going to be attractive with sharper money as we get closer to kickoff.
The South Point might be proof of +21½ being attractive because they’ve bounced around from 21 to 21½ three separate times since Tuesday. Every time the hook comes up, it gets taken again and then enough cumulative small action on Stanford pushes it back up. They are currently at -21½.
Other movements from the week include sharp money backing Memphis as a home ‘dog. East Carolina opened as a 17-point favorite and is now -14. Good luck with Memphis in that game.
The UNLV Rebels have found some love from sharp money for its road game at Wyoming where they went from getting 13 points all the way down to 10 ½. Here’s to hoping they are right, Go Rebels!
Oregon State has found some support for its home game against BYU going from a 1½-point favorite to -3.
And finally, a report on a week of line movements wouldn’t be complete without a MAC line moving rapidly and that game is Miami, Ohio vs. Kent State. The Redhawks opened as 5½-point favorites and Kent money has come in dropping it to -3½.
College Football Betting Weather Report: Week 7
The change in seasons has been a strange one. Find out how weather will impact your college football bets in Week 7 of the season.
Louisville Cardinals at Cincinnati Bobcats (-16, 48.5)
Clear skies is in the forecast for Cincinnati, but there will be winds, blowing west, at speeds of up to 15 mph Saturday.
Michigan Wolverines at Michigan State Spartans (-2.5, 49)
The winds will rage in the battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy. The forecast in East Lansing is calling for gust of up to 30 mph, blowing west from sideline to sideline. Game-time temperatures will dip into the low 50s with a 14 percent chance of showers.
Purdue Boilermakers at Penn State Nittany Lions (-12, 41.5)
Rain is in the forecast for Happy Valley, with an 18 percent chance of showers and game-time temperatures falling into the low 50s. Winds will also be an issue for the passing and kicking games, blowing West at speeds of up to 20 mph.
Utah Utes at Pittsburgh Panthers (-6.5, 46.5)
Rain will dampen Pittsburgh for the first half of this East-vs.-West matchup. There is a 20 percent chance of showers, which will give way later in the afternoon. Winds will blow west at speeds of up to 20 mph.
Indiana Hoosiers at Wisconsin Badgers (-39.5, 60.5)
Winds will reach speeds of up to 16 mph in Madison Saturday. Gust will blow west from sideline to sideline, cooling temperatures into the mid 50s.
Miami Hurricanes at North Carolina Tar Heels (-3, 52.5)
The forecast in Chapel Hill is calling for winds, blowing west, at speeds of up to 12 mph.
Buffalo Bulls at Temple Owls (-21, 47.5)
Winds will reach speeds of 15 mph, blowing WSW from corner to corner at Lincoln Financial Field Saturday. Temperatures will be in the mid 60s.
Navy Midshipmen at Rutgers Scarlet Knights (-3.5, 53)
The forecast in New Jersey is calling for winds, blowing WSW from end to end, at speeds of up to 14 mph Saturday.
UNLV Runnin’ Rebels at Wyoming Cowboys (-10.5, 56)
Winds will cause chaos for this MWC battle. Gusts are expected to reach speeds of up to 25 mph, blowing west from sideline to sideline, at Jonah Field at War Memorial Stadium Saturday.
Eastern Michigan Eagles at Central Michigan Chippewas (-12.5, 51.5)
The weather will be any but pleasant in Mount Pleasant Saturday. Rain and winds reaching speeds of up to 22 mph, blowing west, will plagued this MAC showdown. Temperatures will dip into the low 50s.
Rice Owls at Marshall Thundering Herd (-4.5, 51.5)
The forecast for Huntington is calling for winds, blowing west, of speed of up to 15 mph from sideline to sideline.
South Florida Bulls at Connecticut Huskies (+7, 46.5)
Winds will reach speeds of up to 15 mph in Storrs Saturday. Those breezes will blow WSW from sideline to sideline at Rentschler Field.
Miami (Ohio) RedHawks at Kent State Golden Flashes (+3.5, 39.5)
There is messy weather on the way in Ohio, with a 30 percent chance of rain and winds reaching speeds of up to 20 mph, blowing west from sideline to sideline.
Western Michigan Broncos at Northern Illinois Huskies (+1, 69)
Winds will blow west from sideline to sideline, reaching speeds of up to 16 mph at Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium Saturday.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Florida Atlantic Owls (-2.5, 43.5)
The forecast in Miami is calling for possible thundershowers and a 20 percent chance of rain Saturday. Winds will reach speeds of up to 15 mpg, blowing ENE from corner to corner at Lockhart Stadium.
Boise State Broncos at Colorado State Rams (+31.5, 54.5)
Winds will reach speeds of up to 15 mph in Fort Collins, blowing west, but will settle down in the second half.
Kansas State Wildcats at Texas Tech Red Raiders (-3.5, 60.5)
The forecast for Lubbock is calling for winds, blowing south from end to end, at speeds of up to 12 mph Saturday.