Minnesota vs. Ohio State Total Pick
The total for No. 3 Ohio State’s game against Minnesota is being set somewhat low for an Ohio State home game. Can the Buckeyes and the Gophers hit the over?
Game Snapshot & Odds
171 Minnesota at 172 Ohio State
Saturday, October 13, 2018
Noon ET – Ohio Stadium
TV: FS1
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Public Betting Trends
According to oddsmakers at BetNow.eu, Ohio State is the clear favorite in this game, as the Buckeyes are getting odds of -29.5 points against Minnesota. The over/under total for the contest is listed at 59.5 points. The public betting for this game currently has 74 percent going on Ohio State at home. This information is subject to change, however, so be sure to check out our College Football Public Betting Page for updated figures on the game.
Buckeyes scoring big
Ohio State improved to 6-0 last week with a 49-26 win over Indiana, but the Buckeyes couldn’t cover the 27-point spread. OSU is now 3-0 in the Big Ten, 3-3 against the spread and 3-3 with the over/under total. They are 2-2 with the over/under total at home.
Ohio State is putting up 49 points and 565.7 yards per game on offense this year. The Buckeyes are dangerous on the ground and in the air. Quarterback Dwayne Haskins has thrown for 1,919 yards with 25 touchdowns and four interceptions. Parris Campbell is his top target, as Campbell has 35 catches for 501 yards and seven touchdowns. The duo of J.K. Dobbins and Mike Weber have combined for 882 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Defensively, Ohio State is giving up 20 points and 365.2 yards per game.
Minnesota struggling on defense
After a 3-0 start to the season, Minnesota has lost both of its Big Ten games, failing to cover in both as well. The Golden Gophers are 3-2 overall, 0-2 in the Big Ten, 3-2 against the spread and 3-2 with the over.
Defense is becoming an issue for the Gophers. On the season, Minnesota is giving up just 23.4 points and 324.2 yards per game. However, they have given up 90 points combined to Maryland and Iowa in their first two conference games. Offensively, Minnesota is averaging 27.8 points and 341.4 yards per game. Quarterback Zack Annexstad has thrown for 924 yards and eight touchdowns, but also has five interceptions. Bryce Williams is the leading rusher with 311 yards and a score.
College Football Betting Trends
Ohio State
Ohio State has hit the over in four straight games in October and in 10 of its last 14 Big Ten games.
Minnesota
Minnesota has hit the over in five of its last six games following a double-digit loss at home and in four of its five after a loss in general.
Prediction:
Minnesota has been a mess defensively and is now facing one of the best offenses in the nation on the road. I expect Ohio State to score at least 45 points in this game, leaving it up to the Gophers to manage a few touchdowns along the way. I think Minnesota can do that. Ohio State has given up some scores to average teams, especially when they get up big. Go with the over in this one as Ohio State puts on another show.
College Football Prediction: Minnesota/Ohio State Over 59.5
Related: Minnesota vs. Ohio State Spread Prediction