Ohio State.

Game 287.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

There is no question the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is a very good team. I personally, have had them quite a few times this season, and have done very well with them. I'm going to take a different approach to this breakdown, my friends. Yes, overall, their regular-season schedule wasn't the toughest. For a team that averaged over 37.7 points per game in he regular-season, during the postseason, the Fighting Irish offense fell way short. Do you think it's a coincidence it's because they faced stronger opponents? I don't think so! They posted 27 against Indiana, 23 against Georgia, and 27 against Penn State. For a team, since there loss back on September 7, that posted 66, 28, 31, 49, 31, 51, 52, 35, 49, and 49, what was so different about their post season opponents? Because they we're all superior to their regular season adversaries. Next, let's talk about their passing attack, which ranks 92nd in college football. They have to go against the nation’s top-ranked pass defense here, which will make their offense very one-dimensional. Having said that, the Buckeyes stop-unit ranks third in college football against the rush. Speaking of Ohio State defense, outside of Oregon, who they played twice, no other opponent posted better than 17 points on them this season. And let's face it, they’ve played some good opponents. One more item I want to make you aware of; these two teams had two common opponents this season; they both played Indiana, in which Notre Dame was a favorite of 6.5-points. But Ohio State was a favorite of 10.5-points. They also both faced Purdue, which the Fighting Irish went off a 7.0-point favorite. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes closed a 37.0-point favorite in that matchup. Why is the line so short here? It's to make it attractive to both sides, folks. That's what the oddsmakers are looking to do, so they get wagers on both teams here, and make their juice. Don't fall for it. Take Ohio State. Thank you.

Ohio State Buckeyes.

COTTON BOWL WNNER.

Game 285.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Sometimes it is better to be lucky than good. And let's face it, the Texas Longhorns have gotten pretty lucky a few times this season. Case in point, in their last game against the Arizona State Sun Devils. That's not the first-time luck was on their side. However, when you get to this platform, luck runs out. The way the Ohio State Buckeyes are looking with their well coach, disciplined squad, particularly their stellar defense, they are seriously going to outclass their opponent in this matchup. Please understand I when it comes to big games, defense and mistakes play a big part. I think we can all agree that the Buckeyes defense, which tops the nation, yielding just 12.1-points per game is a true force to be reckoned with. With all respect to the Longhorns stop-unit, which does rank fourth in college football, they just aren't on the same level. I also mentioned mistakes. The Texas offense has committed 24 turnovers, and cannot rely upon a steady effort from their field goal unit. Under a touchdown as a gift. Take Ohio State. Thank you.

Alabama Crimson Tide.

RELIAQUEST BOWL WINNER.

Game 259.

9:00 AM PST/12: PM EST.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Last season, the Michigan Wolverines were the National Champions. This season, they are just 7-5. Yes, their head coach as well as several key starters left for the NFL. And let's face it, if it wasn't for upsetting Ohio State in their last outing, they wouldn't have made it to any Bowl, let alone this one. In my opinion, that was their Super Bowl, so to speak. The already struggling offense will be without several of their most talented personnel here. If you remember, a season ago, on January 1, the Wolverines took down the Crimson Tide in overtime. This is a huge revenge situation for Alabama. Speaking of ‘Bama, they fell way short of expectations this season, going 9-3. By the way, their three losses are the most since 2010 when they finished the campaign at 10-3. As far as transfer portal goes, yes, some players will be leaving. But Jalen Milroe will be playing here, as of posting this play (check status). The dual-threat quarterback leads the team in touchdowns, rushing, and passing. He has a lot of weapons at his disposal. Remember this is an offense that averaged over 35.5 points per game, equally good in the air as they were on the ground. They face a Michigan defense that was pretty good. But will be without several key players as well. Defensively, Alabama allowed a mere 17.3 points per game, and down the stretch tightened it up pretty well. Remember this is a team that finished their campaign going 4-1, both straight up and against the spread. This is a big revenge factor, along with making a statement for next season. Take the Crimson Tide. Thank you.

Colorado Buffaloes.

ALAMO BOWL WINNER.

Game 254.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Starting this season off 9-0 gave BYU fans a lot to be excited about. However, they dropped two of their last three straight up at the hands of Kansas and Arizona State. Moreover, the second half of the season saw them being overvalued by oddsmakers, as they've only covered one of their last six outings. Their defense deserves a lot of credit. But has been exploited at times. The problem they have is when lining up against teams that aren't intimidated by them. There is no way head coach, Deion Sanders, and his players are intimidated here. News this week is that both Shedur Sanders and Heisman-Trophy winner, Travis Hunter will be taking part in the Alamo Bowl. Offensively, we all know the Buffaloes are a passing unit. While the Cougars pass defense can be frustrating, I just don't see them shutting down the fifth-ranked passing attack of Colorado. To make matters worse, BYU, I feel just won't be able to keep pace on the scoreboard in this matchup. There is a reason why the star players for the Buffaloes are playing here. There's also a big motivation factor for Deion Sanders to fulfill his prediction of a Bowl-victory. I feel this line should be a little bit higher. Take Colorado. Thank you.

Navy Midshipmen.

ARMED FORCES BOWL WINNER.

Game 234.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

It's funny how first impressions in sportsbetting can be quite misleading. When I first looked at this matchup, and the line, I circled Oklahoma. But as I did my due diligence, and looked further into the Armed Forces Bowl, I quickly changed my mind. Oklahoma, has been decimated by players opting out and/or going into the transfer portal. Their offense is totally depleted. They lose their quarterback, Jackson Arnold, and several of their receivers. This does not bode well as the Sooners offense was horrible this season. Not only was it not near the standard we are used to seeing, but it was downright ugly, averaging a mere, 24.3 points per game, ranking 123rd in passing, and 76th in rushing. Togo one further, they couldn't get out of their own way, committing 19 turnovers. Yes, it's true their defense ranks 34th in the nation, allowing just 21.6 points per game. And they are very good against the rush. But playing in the SEC, they have not had to face a team that runs the triple-option. Funny thing about that offense, you know it's coming, you do your best to prepare for it, and you still get steamrolled by it. Navy comes off a big high-profile win against Army back on December 14. Now normally I would look to fade a team following a game like that. But not here guys. I don't know if you realize this, but they took down Memphis, UAB South Florida, and ECU. All notable opponents. This is a team that cannot be intimidated. They also have a head coach that grew up just a few miles away from Sooners football, in Norman, Oklahoma. Yes, Brian Newberry grew up a big Oklahoma fan, and knows this team well. To add to their motivation, Navy is looking for just their sixth 10-win season in program history. It is well within their grasp, and I think they just might get it. Take the Midshipmen. Thank you.

Tennessee Volunteers.

FBS FIRST ROUND MATCHUP WINNER.

Game 217.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Let's start with the elephant in the room folks…and NO, my ex has not walked in LOL. I am not siding with the underdog, Tennessee volunteers because of Ohio State’s performance in their last outing, a lackluster, 13-10 loss at the hands of the less than stellar, Michigan Wolverines. I also want you guys to throw out all the B.S. you are hearing about the weather at Ohio Stadium. Yes, it is going to be in the mid-20’s at game time. And normally, when you get an SEC team traveling to a cold weather area to play, it can play part in the game. However, the Volunteers have been practicing in the mid to high-30’s in Tennessee before traveling the short, five-hour drive from Knoxville to Columbus. Let's throw away the bones and just talk to meat, folks. The Buckeyes offensive line is a mess. They will be without several key cogs in their offensive line wheel. And I think that's going to be a big part in this matchup. Overall, yes, you cannot ignore the Ohio State defense is best in the nation, allowing just 10.9 points per game. But they don't force a lot of turnovers and, I feel their offense will have a hard time in the air as well as on the ground in this matchup. It will take w while for them to get in a flow. The Volunteers stop-unit ranks fourth in total yards, 17th against the pass, eighth against the rush, and fourth in points allowed. Let's circle back to the offensive line issue of Ohio State. The Tennessee defense has accounted for over 29 sacks this season. I just think giving this team more than a touchdown is a big mistake. I feel it's going to be a lot closer than the points spread. And I'm taking the Vols to cover here, folks. Thank you.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

FBS FIRST ROUND MATCHUP WINNER.

Game 212.

5:00 PM ST/8:00 PM EST.

I personally was a big believer this regular season in the Indiana Hoosiers. I had them quite a few times, and always did well with them. We did well because they were under the radar. Well, they're not under the radar anymore. Their nonconference schedule was a joke, to say the least. And the game with Michigan, a little more than a month ago, was a lot closer than their 20-15 final score in which they were better than a two-touchdown favorite. They did get shellacked by Ohio State, in their following game after a bye week, 38-15. Their last outing which was impressive, as they shredded Purdue, 66-0, will definitely play a part in why the general public is behind them this week. But that is a huge common mistake made by bettors. Reports are weather will play a part in this contest. Now being that both teams are from Indiana, and are playing in Indiana, I doubt very much it will affect them. What I do think the big factor here that gives the Fighting Irish a major advantage, is that this will be a very physical matchup. And the Irish are certainly better in the trenches. I also feel the Notre Dame team, and their coaching staff is a little more experienced in big games situations. I may be Sicilian. But this Friday, I am all Irish. Take the Fighting Irish.

Ohio Bobcats.

CURE BOWL WINNER.

Game 207.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Reports this week for the Cure bowl are that both Ohio and Jacksonville State’s head coaches have departed for other jobs. Having said that, these are two very good teams, despite not playing in Power Five conferences. Both are led by solid quarterbacks. But both possess some of the most feared rushing offenses in the nation. The Gamecocks rank second in college football in rushing, while the Bobcats rank 13th. It is true, Jacksonville State commits less turnovers offensively. But I feel the main difference in this game is going to be the superior defensive play of Ohio. They allow just 17.5 points per game, and rank fifth nationally against the rush. Their opponent allows 8.3 points per game more, and ranks 95th against the run. I believe that's where the difference in this matchup will be. Oh, by the way, they also come in her hotter, winning and covering six in a row. So, take the Bobcats to maul the Gamecocks. Thank you.

James Madison Dukes.

Boca Raton Bowl Winner.

Game 202.

2:30 PM PST/5:30 PM EST.

It's definitely that time of year when we have to worry about transfer portals. Weston Kentucky has a laundry list of players that are entering the transfer portal. However, there are no confirmations as of yet who will play and who will not. So, let's just go on the basis that everybody on both teams will play. Having said that, Western Kentucky has lost three of their last four straight up, getting blown out in their Conference Championship, 52-12 at the hands of Jacksonville State. This is a team that can throw the ball. But has absolutely no rushing attack whatsoever to keep defenses honest. Defensively, they can't stop the rush at all. Their “O” has committed 21 turnovers, while their “D” has snagged just 10 takeaways. James Madison is a rushing team. Not only that, but they their defense is one of the best in a nation, allowing a mere 20.8 points per game, equally good against the pass as they are against the rush. Their offense makes very few mistakes, while their defense has accounted for 17 takeaways. They enter this matchup losing their last two games but have a lot more talent on the field. Take the Dukes. Thank you.

Memphis Tigers.

Frisco Bowl Winner.

Game 199.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

This is a Bowl matchup consisting of two teams that have never met before. Having said that, Memphis is a well-balanced machine. But West Virginia has certainly played better competition. The Tigers will be without their leading ball-carrier, Mario Anderson, who ran for almost 1300 yards, and notched 17 touchdowns. However, they do have a solid backfield with Thomas and Desrosiers, who combined for over 500 yards rushing and 10 TD’s. This is also a team that is known to possess one of the best passing attacks in the nation (10th). They rarely turn the ball over, and average over 35.2 points per game. I believe their aerial assault will dissect the 125th ranked pass defense of the Mountaineers. West Virginia can run the ball. But they go up against the 10th ranked run defense in the nation. By the way, West Virginia also commits a lot of turnovers, as their offense has committed 17 miscues already, and their defense has only snagged five takeaways. I think that will be the big difference here. Take Memphis. Thank you.

Army.

Game 454.

12:00 PM PST/3:00 PM EST.

Since they are sole defeat of the regular season a few weeks ago at the hands of Notre Dame, Army has won their last two games. This week’s rankings have them up two spots to the No. 22 team in the country. There are only three other teams ranked in the top 25 with one loss; Notre Dame, Indiana, and Boise State. All of which have made the CFP. This is the Black Knights opportunity to prove all the pollsters wrong, and make an example of a formidable opponent. Army has taken six of the last eight meetings in the historic rivalry, straight up, covering six of the last eight meetings as well. Navy has had a few extra days to rest and prepare for this matchup. However, I don't think it's going to matter. Both teams are monsters at rushing the ball. The Army defense is significantly better. They allow just 15.0 points per game, rank 11th against the rush, and 34th against the pass. They've also committed just five turnovers, which tops college football, while their defense has snagged 17 takeaways. I think that's going to be the big difference here. The fact the Midshipmen offense committed 14 turnovers, and are definitely beatable defensively against the run. The Black Knights will come out here to prove a point, and make a statement. Take Army. Thank you.

Clemson.

ACC TITLE GAME WINNER.

Game 117.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

I feel many people out there are looking to play SMU because of Clemson’s performance in their last game, a 17-14 loss at home against South Carolina. However, there were some contributing factors in that game. They felt their season was over, and what happened? The Miami Hurricanes blew their game, which opened the gate for the Tigers to step into the ACC Title game. Having said that, Clemson has an experienced quarterback, a smart head coach, a very well-balanced offense that makes very few mistakes, and a team that is no stranger to playing on this platform. I believe QB, Cade Klubnik will be able to take advantage of SMU's lax 85th ranked pass defense. I also feel their own stop-unit is going to come up big here and force some mistakes. Take the Tigers. Thank you.

Jacksonville State.

CUSA TITLE GAME WINNER.

Game 106.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

They say revenge is a dish best served cold. And my friends, I'm Sicilian, I know a lot about revenge lol. The Conference USA title game is a quick turnaround from last week’s Western Kentucky’s slim, 19-17 win at home. Now that Hill Toppers take to the road where they're just 3-3 straight up this season failing to cover the last two as a guest. Meanwhile, the Gamecocks are a monster team. They rattled off eight consecutive straight up wins, going 6-2 against the spread before the November 30 heartbreaking loss in which they blew a late lead. I see Jacksonville State with the nation’s third-ranked rushing attack playing a little different scheme here. They will totally control the clock, and the tempo, keeping the ball on the ground, and their opponents defense on the field. Take the Gamecocks for the revenge. Thank you.

Notre Dame.

GAME OF THE MONTH TOP PLAY.

Game 437.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

Since losing in their second outing of the campaign to Northern Illinois, Notre Dame has very quietly run off nine consecutive wins, going 8-1 against the spread. There is an argument that their schedule was a little less than difficult. So, they must continue to annihilate their last opponent of the regular season here. Let's make no mistake of it, they know USC, and they don't like USC at all. As a matter of fact, going back 10 years, they have taken seven of the last 10 meetings straight up, covering six of those meetings. This does include last October’s, 48-20 demolishing. Granted, the Trojans are pretty good at home. But they have lost to some less than stellar opponents. I feel they are very vulnerable, and will get a beat down right here today. The Trojans offense relies solely upon their passing game. Well, this does not bode well as the Irish defense ranks number one in the nation against the pass. Oh, by the way they also rank second in points allowed. Take Notre Dame. Thank you.

South Carolina.

HIGH ROLLER.

Game 347.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

 South Carolina is 8-3 overall this season, and they are also 8-3 against the spread. They are on a five-game SU win streak. Oh, by the way, they've also covered four of five as an underdog this season. Because of their three conference losses they cannot take part in the conference title game. They would love nothing more than to beat their old rival, Clemson in their final regular season contest. I feel the Gamecocks ferocious defense, which ranks 14th in the nation, allowing just 18.2 points per game, is going to put pressure on the Tigers quarterback and force mistakes. Meanwhile, their stout rushing attack will control the tempo on the clock here. Take South Carolina. Thank you.

Vanderbilt.

SEC MONEY PLAY.

Game 362.

9:00 ASM PST/12:00 PM EST.

It's no secret the last three times Tennessee played outside of Knoxville; their offense has struggled. There is also been quite a few close calls at home. They face a Vanderbilt opponent here that is much improved from recent seasons. This is a team that has covered seven of their last 10, including ATS covers against Missouri, Alabama, Kentucky, Texas, Auburn, and LSU. Tennessee continues to be seriously overvalued, as they have only covered two of their last seven, and their last cover they got on the road was back at the end of September. They're giving the Volunteers too much credit. Take the Commodores. Thank you.

Iowa State.

Game 171.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Iowa State still has a chance at the Big 12 Title game. However, they must get a little bit of help and without question, win out the rest of their regular season contests. They bounced back from a two-game slide last week, taking down Cincinnati, 34-17. They face a Utah opponent that has now dropped six in a row straight up, and I've only covered two games since August. Things are going from bad to work for the Utes, as injuries has hurt this team badly. Either way, the Cyclones offense is just way too explosive, while they're defense creates a ton of turnovers. Take Iowa State. Thank you.

Alabama.

Game 223.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Alabama needs to make an example on the road in Oklahoma this week, and then at home next week against Auburn to keep their CFP chances alive. I am well aware they suffered their two defeats this season on the road. But that is why they cannot afford another road loss or another poor showing as a visitor. They face an Oklahoma team that has played well enough for the talent they have. But they have dropped five of their last seven straight up, and five of their last nine against the spread. Playing at home has been no bargain for this team either. It is not the advantage it once was. The Sooners offense is less than mediocre (to be kind), and their defense neither strikes fear in any opponents, nor does it create any turnovers. They go up against a team that is as well-balanced as they have seen this season, and are seriously outmanned and outclassed. Take the Crimson Tide. Thank you.

Penn State.

Game 155.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

The 9-1, fourth-ranked Nittany lions must, I repeat, must blow up their final two regular season opponents to be considered for the CFP. Following this game, they go home to play Maryland. Meanwhile, the 6-4 Golden Gophers are already Bowl-eligible. They have had a week off to digest their road loss at the hands of the Scarlet Knights. But I just don't think they have enough talent on the field or on the sidelines to compete here. Yes, their defense is pretty darn good. However, their offense, lacks the explosiveness to contend on the scoreboard in this matchup. On both sides of the line scrimmage, Penn State outclasses Minnesota, averaging over 33.0-points per game, and yielding adjust 13.6-points per game. They will completely shut down the Golden Gophers lackluster offense, while their well-balanced "O" moves the chains. Take the Nittany Lions. Thank you.

Indiana.

BIG TEN BB.

Game 159.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Sport fans, as well you all know, there are only three undefeated college football teams remaining in the nation: Army, Oregon, and Indiana. Now Indiana following this game this week at Ohio State, finishes their regular season at home against Purdue. To be quite honest, this is by far, their toughest opponent today. And to be even more open, unless they make a good showing here, it will change whatever happens down the road as teams will look at them very differently. They must make a good showing or win outright in this matchup. There is an argument, they can phone it in this week and not jeopardize any key cogs in their wheel and still be good to go. But a bad loss here, may bump them for the Conference Title game and more.  Making them nearly a two-touchdown underdog, I feel as a big mistake. While Ohio State is a monster team with a monster defense, I think you're going to see this game come down to a few factors: For starters, the Hoosiers can run the ball themselves. But they also own the nation’s No. 1 run defense. I believe they'll slow down the Buckeyes rushing game just a bit. But they themselves can run the ball and eat up a lot of clock. They are also just like Ohio State, a very good passing team. While the Buckeyes are a bit better against the pass, I really do believe the fact that Indiana will have success on the ground to open up their passing game will make them a lot more dangerous offensively. One more item I feel this game will come down to, and that is mistakes. Ohio State has committed nine turnovers while Indiana just seven. And even though the Buckeyes defense is the No. 1 stop-unit in the country in points allowed, they only have seven takeaways, while the Hoosiers have already snagged 11 turnovers. This game is gonna’ come down to running the ball with success and turnovers. While, I feel Ohio State should win this game, I don't think they're going to cover two touchdowns. I would take the points with Indy here. Thank you.  

NC State.

ACC ANNIHILATOR.

Game 113.

4:30 PM PST PST/7:30 PM EST.

The NC State Wolfpack is sitting at 5-5 overall, and are looking for that sixth victory to become bowl-eligible. Obviously, they know the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets very well. Speaking of the Yellow Jackets, they are sitting at 6-4 overall, and after this game tonight, they have a matchup on the 29th at Georgia. They just might be in a situation looking ahead to the final game of the regular season. While I do think they are a better team, that will most-likely control the clock with their running game, I do believe NC State will have some success in the air here, and keep this game a lot closer than the pointspread. Way too many points. Take the Wolfpack. Thank you.

Oregon.

Late Bailout.

Game 403.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Topping the college football rankings, and being 10-0, Oregon must, I repeat, must keep their foot on the gas here this week. Behind them in the polls and also in the Big Ten, is the undefeated, fifth-ranked, Indiana Hoosiers. Both teams are perfect in the Conference, and both teams are perfect overall. However, the Hoosiers are off this week, and don't have another contest until the 23rd when they face Ohio State on the road. They then finish up their regular season at home against Purdue. Having said that, after this game this week, the Ducks finish off their campaign in a few weeks at home against the Huskies. In all sincerity, this team can stay perfect during the regular season. If they put up a ton of points here, and remember style-points count these days, they will keep their number one status for sure. They have covered three of their four games played on the road this season, missing one by just two-points. Wisconsin comes in here losing and failing to cover each of their last two outings, getting crushed by Penn State, 28-13, and then throttled by Iowa, 42-10. This is a team already sporting four losses this season, and I doubt very much they're going to put up any fight here. They are just outclassed and outmanned. Oregon possesses one of the most complete football teams on both sides of the line of scrimmage in this nation. And I just don't feel Wisconsin matches up at all here. Particularly because they committed 15 turnovers while only snagging three. Trust me when I tell you they're going to make mistakes here. Take the Ducks. Thank you.

Tennessee.

SEC RS GOY.

Game 379.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Let's go to Saturday in a big SEC matchup between the seventh-ranked Tennessee Volunteers and the 12th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs. My friends, for the life of me, I don't understand why Georgia is laying 10 1/2 points in this matchup. At best, at home at Sanford Stadium I make them possibly a 6 1/2 to a seven-point favorite. The Volunteers sit atop the SEC at 5-1 in Conference play, and 8-1 overall. Yes, Georgia has taken the last seven meetings in this series, straight up covering six of those seven matchups. But this season, they are not the same team that they were over recent years. They have failed to cover all three games played at home in 2024 and, their once mighty defense has sprung a leak. They allowed Alabama to put up 41 on them, Mississippi State to post 31, Florida to put up 20, and Mississippi to put up 28. You guys know the Tennessee “D” has not allowed a single opponent to score better than 19-points this season.  The Bulldogs cannot run the ball, relying solely upon the pass. Well, they have to face the 15th-ranked “D” in the nation against the pass, and overall, they only allow 12.6-points per game. Meanwhile, their gonna’ be in trouble trying to contain the well-balanced offense of the Volunteers, which are averaging over 37.6-points per game. This is the last big test for UT. After this they have UTEP up next, and then they finish the regular season on the road at Vanderbilt. I just don't see them letting their foot off the gas, and getting double-digits is an early Christmas present. Take the Volunteers, my friends. Thank you.

LSU.

SEC SMASH.

Game 393.

12:30 PM PST/3:30PM EST.

On Saturday as LSU travels to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to take on Florida. Both teams come in here riding a two-game straight up slide. But the Tigers have certainly dominated this series, taking five meetings in a row, both straight up and against the spread. LSU quarterback, Garret Nussmeier is a real gunslinger. Coming into this game, he's already thrown for over 2,866 yards, with 21 TD’s, and a 62.7% completion rate. That does not bode well for a Florida defense, allowing 27.6 points per game and getting burned for 234.2 yards per game in the air. On the flipside, the Tigers stop-unit lines up across from a Gators offense that can't get out of their own way, committing over 15 turnovers, and in all honesty, have nothing threatening, offensively. They have to play Mississippi at home next week, and then they finish up against their old rival Florida State on the road. I think they're definitely gonna’ be in a “look-ahead” spot here. LSU has Vanderbilt up next, followed by Oklahoma, both games played at home. I don't see them falling short here. Take LSU folks. Thank you.

Tulane.

Early Winner.

Game 345.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Tulane, with a victory here can basically guarantee themselves a slot in the AAC Title game. Ahead of them in the Conference is Army as they are both undefeated in AAC. However, as you know, the Black Knights are undefeated overall, while the Green Wave sit at 8-2 on the season. Not only are they winning, they are covering, going 8-2 ATS this season. Navy came back down to reality after starting the campaign off undefeated through their first six-games, getting thrashed by both Notre Dame and Rice. Last week they did take down South Florida. However, they just don't match up well with Tulane. The Green Wave possess a solid run defense. But also, can rush the ball themselves. And the Midshipmen just aren't built for that. Lay the TD and ride the Green Wave. Take Tulane. Thank you.

WMU Broncos.

MAC MM.

Game 303.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

This is going to be a very tough matchup. Western Michigan is currently tied with three other teams, including Bowling Green atop the MAC at 4-1. There are all also 5-4 overall. Having said that, the Broncos following a four-game straight up win streak took one on the chin a little less than a week ago at home against the Huskies, 42-28. That also ended their three-game ATS cover Streak. Bowling Green has played some good football over their last three outings. However, they are severely overvalued as they have only covered one of their last five contests. This is an opportunity for Western Michigan to exact a little revenge as they lost the last two meetings in this rivalry. If they can get past this obstacle this week, they have two easy games coming up to finish off the regular season. Meanwhile, Bowling Green has this game this week followed by an easy one at Ball State, and then finish up their regular season against Miami Ohio, a tough matchup. The Broncos, with their 18th-ranked rushing attack will control the clock, the tempo, and keep the Falcons defense on the field, and their offense off it. Way too many points. Take Western Michigan. Thank you.

BYU Cougars.

Bookie Buster.

Game 145.

7:15 PM PST/10:15 PM EST.

The ninth-ranked BYU Cougars are not only the only undefeated team in the Big 12 (5-0), but they are also only one of five teams in the nation (8-0) that remain unblemished. That tells us they must keep their foot on the gas here. Just behind them tied for second place in the Conference, is both Iowa State and Colorado, which are both at 4-1. With regular season games remaining against Kansas, Arizona State, and Houston, it is very likely, they can run the gauntlet, and finish the regular season perfect. The Utah Utes are a train wreck. They are just .500, at 4-4 overall, which does include a dismal, 1-4 in Conference play. They are sliding badly, riding a four-game lose and no cover streak. Granted, both teams come off a bye week, the Cougars are certainly healthier. I don't see them in a “lookahead” mode, or even a “letdown” mode here as we all know they know this opponent very well, and furthermore, dislike them immensely. Please remember Utah had their way in this rivalry for many years, taking nine consecutive meetings, going back to November 2010, prior to 2021's, loss on the road, 26-17. The tide has turned in this rivalry. Sure, the Utes have a solid defense But, their offense is absolutely atrocious, ranking 105th in scoring (22.8 points per game), and committing 14 turnovers. They just won't be able to keep pace on the scoreboard with the explosive, 24th-ranked scoring offense of the Cougars, which are accounting for over 35.0-points per game. By the way, the BYU defense ain't too shabby, yielding just 19.6 PPG, and snagging 14 turnovers. Take the Cougars. Thank you.

Missouri tigers.

SEC SMASH.

Game 160.

4:45 PM PST/7:45 PM EST.

The SEC has certainly lost a lot of its luster. But this Saturday, there's a big matchup I feel the oddsmakers have the wrong team favored. Oklahoma is just 5-4 overall, which does include a 1-4 record in SEC play. They've lost three of the last four straight up, and are only 1-1 on the road this season. But yet, the oddsmakers are still overvaluing them making them a three-point favorite over the home team Missouri Tigers. The Tigers are perfect 5-0 SU at home, 6-2 overall, and sit in the middle of the pack at 2-2 in Conference play. We all know that towards the end of the regular season, you will see better matchups. With a couple of victories, Mizzou can certainly up their stock. They come off a loss on the road at Alabama, and embarrassing defeat, 34-0. The last time they dropped a game, they bounced back to win and cover their following two outings. And I feel they're going to bounce back here, folks. The Sooners have the Crimson Tide and the LSU Tigers on deck to close out their regular season, while Missouri has South Carolina, Mississippi State, and Arkansas. Oklahoma just might overlook this opponent here on Saturday. The Sooners aren’t the team they once were on either side of the ball. Their offense, their once-feared offense, ranks 91st in scoring, 111th in total yards, 107th in passing, and 82nd in rushing. And they turned the ball over 13 times. Their defense, is decent, but certainly not threatening, especially not against the pass. Missouri will completely shut down their passing game, as they did against most opponents this season, and only allow 17.9 points per game against some very good offenses. They also have a very solid ground game with control the clock here. I think those factors will be the difference. Giving them points as a mistake. Take the doggie here WOOF WOOF. Take the Tigers. Thank you.

‘Ole Miss Rebels.

Game 162.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

At first glance I feel this is very tough matchup. However, the Bulldogs have been overvalued for most of the season, as they've only covered one of their last seven outings. To make matters worse for Georgia, they have Tennessee on deck at home, may be in a position to get caught just right by a very dangerous ‘Ole Miss squad. There's no doubt the Bulldogs 12th-ranked passing unit will have some success in the air here. But I doubt very much they'll be able to keep their opponents defense honest with their running game, which ranks 97th, and lining up across from the second-ranked rush defense in the nation.  The Bulldogs offensive also makes a lot of mistakes, committing 12 turnovers against five takeaways on the defensive side of the ball. These are two places the Rebels are certainly superior. I see the offense of the home team moving the chains with their well-balanced attack. Being the fact, they can shut down their opponents rushing game, tells me their ground game will control the clock in the tempo. Take Mississippi. Thank you.

Clemson Tigers.

HIGH ROLLER.

Game 197.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

The ACC’s Clemson Tigers come off their first loss since when folks? Since August! They were on a six-game straight up winning streak until last week, when they hosted the Louisville Cardinals as a 10 ½-point fav, and got thumped, 33-21. Well, this team, and their head coach, does not take losing lightly. I expect them to bounce back here, and put a big hurt on the Virginia Tech Hokies. Going back more than a decade, Clemson has taken six straight meetings in this series straight up, covering five of the six meetings. This team is sitting in third place in the ACC, at 5-1 in Conference play. With this Conference matchup, and only one more, their next against the Panthers, they really need these two victories badly. They face a Virginia Tech team that's just 3-2 in ACC play, and come off a road loss at the hands of Syracuse. The Hokies have had trouble with well-balanced opponents. They won't be able to do much in the air here, as they rank 113th in passing. Their entire offense relies upon their running game. Well folks, they're going up against a very stout, run defense here, that's only yielding 140 yards per game on the ground. I don't see them moving the chains… at all. On the flipside, the Tigers rank in the top-25 in both passing and rushing, and are ninth in the nation in scoring, averaging just shy of 40 points per game (39.4 PPG). They also don't make too many mistakes, committing just four turnovers, while snagging nine takeaways in the process. I think this game is gonna’ be one of the ugliest mismatches on the board. Under a touchdown is an early Christmas present. Take Clemson. Thank you.

Miami-Fl. Hurricanes.

EARLY WINNER.

Game 131.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Miami cannot let their foot off the gas. The 4th ranked Hurricanes are a perfect 9–0 this season overall, and tied with the Mustangs at 5-0 in ACC play. With games remaining against Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, and Syracuse, it is very logical this team can finish the regular season perfect. To go one further, they can also exact a little revenge on an opponent that took them down last season, 23-20, when they were a 19.0-point favorite. Quarterback, Cam Ward can up his Heisman status as he goes up against a very lax, 60th-ranked pass defense. On both sides of the ball, the ‘Canes outclass the Yellow Jackets. I expect the No. 1 scoring team in the nation, to stay that way. Take Miami. Thank you.

Minnesota Golden Gophers.

BIG TEN BLOCKBUSTER.

Game 179.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST

With remaining games against Penn State and Wisconsin, this week's contest against Rutgers is Minnesota's only pushover opponent. The Golden Gophers are a very respectable 4-2 in Conference action (Scarlet Knights 1-4 in Big 12), enroute to an overall, 6-3 record. To us sportsbettors, they've been money, going 7-1-1 ATS this season. They are riding a four-games SU win streak, and a five ATS cover streak. They face a Rutgers team that is sliding, losing and failing to cover their last four outings. The Golden Gophers do not do it pretty. But their defense, which ranks 12th in the nation, allowing a mere, 16.8-points per game and snagging 15 takeaways, will completely shut down the lackluster, Scarlet Knights offense. If you're someone who just likes to compare games, in the last month, Minnesota took down both USC and UCLA, holding both teams are 17 points scored, while those two teams shredded Rutgers the last few weeks 35-32, and 42-20.  By the way, during their current four-game slide, the Scarlet Knights average margin of the defeat is 14.2-points per game. Take the Golden Gophers. Thank you.

Indiana.

Game 349.

12:30 pm pst/3:30 pm est.

Indiana has something to prove in this matchup. The Hoosiers are 8-0, are only one of two teams in the nation that haven't trailed in any game, and are ranked only 13th in the polls. The Hoosiers have the Wolverines up next at home before a showdown on the road at the Buckeyes. They must win big here and next week before the November 23 meeting with Ohio State. They've covered three of the last five meetings in this series, which does include all three matchups at Michigan State. No matter which quarterback is under center here, their offense has proven that they can move the chains, and score points on just about any opponent. Believe it or not, this team is averaging over 46.5 points per game, equally strong on the ground as they are in the air. Furthermore, they've only turned the ball over six times, while their defense, which is seventh in the nation, allowing just 14.1 points per game, has snagged nine takeaways. Michigan State, usually falls flat following a meeting with Michigan. The team has dropped four of their last five, straight up, only accounting for 21.0 points per game, while committing 16 turnovers. Yes, their defense is pretty good, but have allowed six of their last seven opponents to put up a minimum of 20-points. The Hoosiers must keep their foot on the gas. Take Indiana. Thank you.

Oregon.

Game 383.

12:30 pm pst/3:30 pm est.

For Saturday, I'm looking at a high-profile game, between the No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks and the Michigan Wolverines. Just like me folks, I'm going to’ keep this breakdown very short, and extremely sweet (lol). Yes, my friends, currently the line here is a little bit better than two touchdowns. But the top-ranked, Ducks need to keep their foot on the gas. As you know, they're undefeated at 8-0, and sports fans, they need to stay that way. Moreover, even though the Wolverines aren't what they were, they are still the defending National Champions, and this contest will be on national TV. Obviously, style points count these days. And with their remaining outings against the Terrapins, Badgers, and Huskies, I don’t see them falling short in a look-ahead, let-down situation. Behind Oregon are seven other undefeated squads, all ranked in the top-25. It is the 3rd ranked Penn State Nittany Lions that could certainly jump up in the polls with a victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes Saturday morning, further motivating the Ducks. I don't see Oregon easing up at all here. Please remember, Michigan was the team to beat for so long, and this would be big, big, win for the Oregon. Throw into the mix, with a huge performance here, quarterback, Dillon Gabriel could certainly up his stock in the Heisman voting. The Ducks will make a statement against the Wolverines, and let the rest of the top-10 know, they are the team to beat. Lay the wood with Oregon and take your bookmakers money…QUACK QUACK. Thank you.

Vanderbilt.

Game 331.

9:45 am pst/12:45 pm est.

Vanderbilt has been money to sportsbettors, covering six of eight outings this season, and seven of their last nine overall contests. The Commodores come off their first loss since the end of September, a 27-24 defeat at home at the hands the Longhorns in which they were a 17-point underdog. When asked to step up in class, this team has done well. They not only kept it close with Texas, but covered against Kentucky, Alabama, and Missouri. By the way they took down the Wildcats and Crimson Tide. Let's not forget they opened their regular season with seven-point win at home as a two-touchdown underdog against Virginia Tech. Meanwhile, Auburn just got their first victory in a than a month and a half following a four-game straight up losing streak. Granted, hey were playing some solid opposition. But this team is struggling. By the way, one more victory and Vandy is Bowl-eligible. This is way too many points, folks. Take the 'dog. Thank you.

UConn.

Game 316.

4:00 pm pst/7:00 PM est.

This is a great spot for Connecticut to exact a little revenge from last season’s, 35-14 loss on the road at Georgia State in which they were just a 2.5-point underdog. The Huskies are 5-1 straight up at home, and won four of their last five overall outings straight up, and have covered seven of their last 10. Meanwhile, the Panthers have dropped four in a row straight up, only covering one of those games, and are winless on the road this season, at 0-3. By the way, this is the third consecutive game in which they are on the road. I just don't see them keeping pace, especially with a defense that is getting burned for over 30.7 points per game. Take Connecticut. Thank you.

Ragin' Cajuns.

Game 305

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Sports fans, these two teams are very evenly matched. But the Ragin' Cajun's enter this matchup with momentum as they have won four in a row straight up, and have dominated this rivalry, winning the last 10 matchups SU, covering nine of those 10 meetings. They have also found a way to win on the road, as they are a perfect, 4-0 straight up as a visitor this season. Going back to last season, they have covered four of their last five on the road. I just think the team is favored here. Take ULL. Thank you.

Kansas State.

Game 182.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

I love rivalry games guys. On Saturday, we will see the ninth most played rivalry in college football, going back to 1902, as Kansas and Kansas State square off for the 122nd time. These two teams have very different outlooks right now. The Jayhawks are 1-3 in Conference play, enroute to an overall, 2-5 record, while the Wildcats are tied in the Big 12 with the Red Raiders, Bearcats, and Buffaloes, all at 3-1, and all sitting in second place behind the Cougars and Cyclones, which are both at 4-0. This is a big game for Kansas State, as they can get another big Conference win, especially against the team they truly hate. To say they've had their way in this series, would be an understatement. Just going back the last 10 years, they have taken 10 consecutive matchups with Kansas, covering the spread in six of those meetings. To be quite honest, in the five most recent meetings, only one would be less than the pointspread this week as they have won those by 28, 31, 25, 20, and last year, by just four-points. It is because they only won by a slim margin a season ago that I feel they're going to come back here and really stomp their most-hated rival. I don't see them taking their foot off the gas or be in “look ahead” mode because on deck, they have Houston, Arizona State, and Cincinnati, before a matchup on the road at Iowa State to finish the regular season. Kansas, which does own a solid ground attack, has to lineup against the nation’s fifth-ranked run defense. The Kansas State defense has been solid, yielding just 20.6-points per game. I just don't see their opponent keeping pace on the scoreboard here. At home against their loyal fans, I see Kansas State running the score up for sure. Take the Wildcats to maul here. Thank you.

LSU.

Game 165.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The only two undefeated SEC teams square off here, with serious implications down the road. Both Texas A&M and LSU are 6-1 overall, with the Aggies 4-0 in Conference play, and the Tigers 3-0 in SEC action this season. Both teams started the season off with a loss, as both have since run the gauntlet, winning six consecutive outings. LSU has certainly had their way with Texas A&M, taking seven of the last 10 meetings straight up, and nine of the last 10 against the spread. There was a time when the Tigers were a little shaky when they travel. But this season, they are 2-0 as a visitor. Granted, Texas A&M has played a very good football. But I believe they're a bit overvalued coming into this matchup, dropping eight of their last 10 outings against the spread, going back to last November. Meanwhile, LSU enters this matchup covering three straight, and matches up well here. They own the eighth-ranked passing attack in the nation, which will exploit the lax, Texas A&M pass defense. On the flipside, the Aggies are extremely successful on the ground offensively. But they must line up against the stout, 33rd ranked run defense in this matchup. I believe the wrong team is favored here folks. Normally, I would step away from the Tigers when they have the Crimson Tide on deck. But they have an off week next week, and let's face it, ‘Bama isn't a team they once were. Take LSU. Thank you.

MSU.

Game 155.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Wow, has Michigan football taken a significant step down in class or what? Winning the National Title a season ago, then losing their head coach, starting quarterback, and starting running back, definitely hurt the Wolverines. However, there is so much more missing from this year’s squad. This is a team that is 4-3 straight up, and that failed to cover six of seven games this season. They rank 112th in scoring, averaging just 21.1 points per game, and have coughed up the ball 15 times on offense, with a passing unit ranking 130th. Last season’s feared defense, is no more. They are an absolute doormat against the pass, and are allowing over 22.1 points per game. While Michigan State can throw the ball, their defense has really stepped up this season. Believe it or not, statistically their stop-unit ranks better than their rivals here, as they allow just 20.9 points per game, and have snagged eight turnovers already. Michigan has games with Oregon at home and then Indiana on the road up next. This is an ideal spot for the Spartans to a little revenge and catch their heated and hated rival at the right time. Take MSU. Thank you.

Miami Fl.

Game 122.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

With five games remaining in the regular season, Miami Florida has a real chance to play in the ACC Title game. For starters, their quarterback, Cam Ward right now seems to be the favorite to take the Heisman Trophy. This is a team that has run the gauntlet, winning all seven of their outings already this season, and despite laying some big numbers, is still 4-3 against the spread. They face a Florida State opponent that has taken the last three meetings in this series. However, the Seminoles this season, are a much different team than we have seen in recent seasons. They are just 1-6 straight up, and have only covered two games since the beginning of last December. Each week seems to be getting worse and worse for FSU. They rank 132nd in scoring, averaging just 15.0 points per game, and have turned the ball over 13 times. That would be bad enough, but their defense has been getting plowed on the ground and has only snagged two takeaways this season. There is no way they can compete with the number two scoring offense in the nation. Miami. Thank you.

Oregon State.

Game 197.

1:00 PM PST/4:00 PM EST.

Cal began the season off 3-0, which did include a high-profile road victory over Auburn. However, they now sit at 3-4 straight up, and are losing games that they really should not. Granted, Oregon State has dropped their last two straight up, and their last three ATS. But I just don't see the Golden Bears laying double-digits against a game, Beavers opponent that has won covered the last two meetings in this rivalry. Offensively, Cal is one-dimensional, with a decent passing game. But OSU ranks 20th defensively against the pass. The Beavers also have an amazing rushing attack that will control the clock and keep their opponents defense on the field. This is way too many points to give OSU. Take Oregon State. Thank you.

Texas.

Game 402.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

With all respect to the Bulldogs, they just don't look like the team many thought they would be at this point. Following their first loss of the season on the road at Alabama at the end of September, they couldn't blow up or even pull away from either Auburn or Mississippi State in their last two outings. They are now riding an 0-5 ATS cold streak. That tells us, they are being severely overvalued by the oddsmakers, my friends. This is by far, in my opinion the toughest team they've had to face yet this season. The Longhorns are deserving of their No. 1 ranking. They aren't just a perfect, 6-0 straight up, they also covered five of their six contests this season. And let's face it, they’ve faced some solid opposition. If the Longhorns want to remain the Nation’s No. 1 team, they must win with authority here this week. And I believe they can. A healthy, Quinn Ewers is back at the helm, to go along with that very solid ground game. I believe it will be that ground game that will control the tempo and the clock in this matchup against the very overrated Bulldogs defense. I mean Georgia allowed Alabama to put up 41 and Mississippi State to put up 31 on them, extending their no cover slide to five straight games. And let's face it, on the offensive side of the ball, the Bulldogs just don't have that same rushing attack to keep defenses honest. I don't see them keeping pace on either side of the field in this match up. Lay the points with the Longhorns. Thank you.

Iowa.

Game 415.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Iowa, which is 4-2 overall on the campaign, has a real opportunity to finish the season running the gauntlet, and winning out. Yes, they lost Iowa State by one-point and got a beatdown on the road at the hands of Ohio State, but the Hawkeyes can finish out their regular season not losing another game. They must first get past their hated-rival, the Spartans. On both sides of the ball, Michigan State is outclassed. They are averaging just 19.8 points per game, and have committed 14 turnovers on offense already. Meanwhile, while their numbers aren't the worst on defense, they are still yielding over 21.0 points per game. I just don't see this defense slowing down the explosive rushing attack of Iowa. On the opposite side of the line of scrimmage, the Hawkeyes possess one of the stingiest, one of the nastiest, one of the most ferocious defenses in college football. They will completely shut down the lackluster “O” of MSU. Take Iowa. Thank you.  

Texas Tech.

Game 362.

1:00 PM PST/4:00 PM EST.

In what just might be the biggest mismatch on the board this Saturday in college football as Texas Tech, which is 3-0 in Conference play, hosts Baylor, which is 0-3 in the Big 12 this season. The Bears are on a three-game straight up and against the spread slide, while the Red Raiders are red-hot, winning and covering their last four outings. They come here with confidence knowing they took down Baylor a season ago, 39-14 on the road. This game gets even uglier. Take Texas Tech. Thank you.

BYU.

Late Bailout.

Game 322.

The Big 12 is a very competitive conference, and right now, the BYU Cougars are sitting atop the Conference, tied with the Iowa State Cyclones and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at 3-0 in conference play. However, only Iowa State joins them and being undefeated overall, at 6-0. After starting the season 3-0, the Oklahoma State Cowboys are now sitting at 3-3, also failing to cover their last three contests. Can you say revenge? The Cowboys took down the Cougars in overtime last November in the Big 12 Championship. Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Oklahoma State cannot run the ball, turning the ball over on offense every game, and possess a defense that is absolutely getting steamrolled for over 27.2-points per game. They must face, a well-balanced offense here, and also must line up against one of the stingiest defenses in the nation. I see BYU keeping their foot on the gas. Take the Cougars. Thank you.

Oregon.

TD play.

Game 319.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Normally, I would look to fade a team like Oregon coming off a big victory over Ohio State last week. However, the second-ranked Ducks are sitting behind the nation’s top-ranked, Longhorns. Now this game between Oregon and Purdue is being played on Friday night. Late Saturday afternoon, Texas hosts Georgia. If they happen to go down, Oregon would be in an ideal spot to leapfrog them in the polls with a solid showing here. The Ducks don't have anybody solid coming up for a few weeks. So, they have to keep their foot on the gas here because style points count. Purdue has been outscored by an average of 15.3 points per game this season. And they have not had to face a team as complete as they're facing here this week. This game gets ugly. Take Oregon. Thank you.

UNT.

Game 157.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Chandler Morris has been outstanding. The quarterback leads the fourth-ranked passing attack in college football, averaging over 348.6 yards per game in the air. Granted, the FAU pass defense is tough. But they have problems when facing two-dimensional offenses. The fact the Mean Green can run the ball with efficiency will keep their opponents defense honest, and allow them to open up and have success with the passing game here. I just don't see the Owls keeping pace on the scoreboard with an offense that averages just 22.0 points per game. This game will get out of hand. Take North Texas. Thank you.

NIU.

Game 135.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

I feel the wrong team is favored here. I see the visitor here being favored by at least one or two-points. Having said that, Northern Illinois should have no problem moving the chains on the ground with the nation’s, 10th ranked rushing attack against 114th ranked rush defense. This will also allow them to control the clock and the tempo. On the defensive side of the ball, they allow just 19.2 points per game. As I mentioned earlier, the wrong team is favored. Take the Huskies. Thank you.

Duke Blue Devils.

OM Play.

Game 339.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

The oddsmakers have this game all wrong, my friends. No way should Georgia Tech be any more than a five or six-point favorite here at home. Duke is playing some good football. They are riding a seven-game straight up win streak, going back to last November. Granted, the Yellow Jackets put up more points. But their passing game is going to run into some problems here against the 19th ranked pass defense. As a matter of fact, overall, the Blue Devils stop-unit hasn’t allowed a single opponent to score more than 21 points this season. Way too many points to give a team with a solid defense, looking for a little vengeance from dropping the last three meetings in this rivalry. Take Duke. Thank you.

Clemson Tigers.

ACC GAME OF THE WEEK.

Game 325.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Clemson is rolling, winning and covering three in a row, and get a chance to avenge last season’s, 31-24 overtime loss at home at the hands of Florida State. Speaking of the Seminoles, things couldn't get much worse for this team, which is on a 1-5 SU/ATS run. The ACC’s top team can further solidify their top spot in the Conference with another big win here, and move up to poles from their current 15th ranking. Take the Tigers. Thank you.

Indiana Hoosiers.

EIM.

Game 353.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

 Let’s talk about the Indiana Hoosiers. They are currently 5-0 straight up, and have covered four of their five contests this season. In all sincerity, with teams like Nebraska, Washington, Michigan State, and Michigan all up next in consecutive games, this team could very possibly be undefeated at 10-0 when they go in to play Ohio State on the road in the third week of November. I don't see them looking ahead here either, folks, and that's for one main reason… although they took last year's meeting in this match up with the Northwestern Wildcats, 34-3. That game was at home. They haven't won on the road at Northwestern since like 1993. Remember this team took to the road about three weeks ago and thrashed UCLA, 42-13. Going back to their being money to us bettors, they could very well be 5-0 against the spread as well, as they eased off the gas in their season opener against FIU, wining 31-7 as a 26-point fav. I'm hearing the Wildcats defense is pretty darn good. But they stepped up twice, and got slashed twice, allowing the Blue Devils to score 26, and the Huskies to put up 24 points. They failed to cover their last three, and I just don't see this team, which by the way is averaging a paltry, 17.3 points per game, trading blows with the explosive, Hoosier’s offense, which is averaging over 48.0 points per game, and are equally strong on the ground as they are in the air. There's no way the Hoosiers don't exact some revenge and finally get a big win in Evanston. Take Indiana. Thank you.

Navy Midshipmen.

Game 347.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Air Force has had their way in this series, taking four in a row, and seven of the last 10 meetings over Navy. However, this season, these are two very different teams from past seasons. The Midshipmen are 4-0 straight up, and less than a field goal away from going 4-0 against the spread. On the other hand, the Falcons are just 1-3 straight up, and have failed to cover all four games this season. Navy can now pass the ball to go along with the nation’s fifth-ranked rushing offense. This is a unit that's averaging over 46.0-points per game, while Air Force can't score at all, averaging just 12.5-points per game. They've also turned the ball over five times. This game gets out of hand. Lay the wood. Take the Midshipmen. Thank you.

Missouri Tigers.

TD play.

Game 379.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Missouri comes in here taking it on the road for the first time this season. They also come here well-rested, having had not taking the field since September 21. They are also 6-0 ATS their last six games played away from home (road/neutral). They also don't have anybody solid up next as they travel to the east coast to take on UMass next week. So, I doubt you'll see them in a look ahead situation. Meanwhile, Texas A&M is once again being overvalued. They are just 1-4 ATS this season. Going back to last season, they have covered just one of their last eight outings. And when playing in College Station, they are severely overvalued, as they have failed to cover five straight on their home field. Let's not forget the Tigers are riding and eight-game straight up winning streak going back to last November, beating such notables as the Volunteers, Gators, Razorbacks, and Buckeyes. They've also covered four straight in an underdog role. Take Missouri. Thank you.

UNLV Rebels.

Game 368.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

The entire college football world is waiting for a shoe to drop on the UNLV Rebels. Well, I'm here to tell you, despite playing the 3-1 Syracuse Orange, that isn't going to happen. While the Orange are a good team, and certainly a formidable foe, they are pointspread poison, failing to cover seven of their last 10 games. Not only that, but their defense has gotten shredded, allowing the Bobcats to put up 22, the Yellow Jackets to post 28, and the Cardinal to dissect them for 26 points. The Rebels defense is for real. They have yet to allow us a single opponent to post more than 20 points, and they faced some good offenses; Cougars, Jayhawks, and Bulldogs. They proved last week that they could win after their official regular season starter at quarterback made plans to leave and sat. This team is doing it with good with defense and good coaching. Two things Syracuse certainly lacks. Under a touchdown is a gift. Take UNLV. Thank you.

Washington State Cougars.

NO LIMIT.

Game 161.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Both, Washington State and Boise State are playing some good, solid football right now. However, the big difference is the Broncos are being overvalued, while the Cougars are being undervalued. BSU is just 1-2 ATS this season already, while WSU is 3-1 against the number. As a matter of fact, Washington State is 5-1 ATS their last six games, going back to last season. One thing for sure, the Cougars do not want a repeat of last year’s situation, when they started the campaign going 4-0 straight up (3-1 ATS), then they collapsed. This is a big win for them if they can get it. I believe this game is going to come down to the last team to score.  Obviously, their explosive passing attack is going to do some damage here against a very lax, pass defense of Boise State. One thing you must understand, Washington State is equally good on the ground as they are in the air, and that will be the difference here. Take the Cougars. Thank you.

Ohio State Buckeyes.

OM PLAY.

Game 205.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

In what is billed as their first true test of this regular season, the Ohio State Buckeyes take to the road to take on an old rival in Michigan State. The third-ranked Buckeyes have a big opportunity here with a big showing. You see, just in front of them in the national rankings is Georgia, which have a showdown with Alabama about the same time this game starts on Saturday (30 minutes earlier). OSU has an opportunity to jump into second place in the national rankings before their schedule gets a bit tougher. The fourth-ranked scoring defense in the nation, which is allowing a mere 6.7 points per game, is equally strong against the pass as they are against the rush. They also go up against an MSU offense which has turned the ball over an astounding 10 times already. When it comes to mistakes, the Spartans make a lot of them, and the Buckeyes can and certainly will capitalize. On the flipside of the ball, Ohio State has only turned the ball over once, and makes few mistakes offensively. This is a true opportunity for the Buckeyes to make a statement, earn some style points, and possibly step into a ranking of No. 2 in the nation. Take Ohio State. Thank you.

Texas Longhorns.

TD Play.

Game 170.

1:15 PM PST/4:15 PM EST.

Texas owns the No. 1 ranking in the nation right now, and wants to keep it. They enter this match up here against their first ever SEC opponent as an SEC representative. They truly want to make a splash. If you’re worried about them having Oklahoma on deck, don't be because the Sooners aren't the team they were, and the Longhorns still have a bye week after this game here this week. Having said that, they possess the top-scoring defense in the nation, allowing just 5.5 points per game. Please take note, Mississippi State will be without their starting quarterback, Blake Shapen, and in his place will be true freshman, Michael Van Buren, who has just seven completions under his belt this season. This is not an offense that can rely on a running game either, to keep defenses honest. On the flipside, there is no way the Bulldogs 107th ranked scoring defense is going to slow down, let alone contain the explosive offense of the Longhorns, which are accounting for over 45.0 points per game. This matchup gets ugly. Take Texas. Thank you.

BYU Cougars.

Early Winner.

Game 171.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

The sting of losing last week’s matchup at Colorado in overtime, fumbling in the end zone is going to linger a bit with Baylor. Not only that, but the Bears have some big games coming up against the Cyclones, Red Raiders, Cowboys, etc. Meanwhile, BYU enters this matchup a perfect 4-0, both SU and ATS. As a matter fact, going back to last season, they have covered six consecutive contests. They will see the return of their starting running back, LJ Martin, who sat out last game with an ankle issue. I look for the Cougars defense, which is allowing just 12.8 points per game, to add to their already five takeaways against the Bears offense that's turned the ball over already six times. Giving BYU points here is a mistake. Take the Cougars. Thank you.

Miami Hurricanes.

Friday Night Lights Winner.

Game 106.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The seventh-ranked Miami Hurricanes are taking no prisoners. They are outscoring opponents by over 42.0 points per game with the second-ranked passing attack in the nation and the 32nd ranked rushing attack. Veteran quarterback, Cam Ward has emerged in Heisman talks already, throwing for over 1,439 yards passing, with 14 TD’s and two INT’s. The Hokies, which over the last few seasons are having trouble on the road, opened their campaign with a loss on the road at Vanderbilt, couldn't cover at home against Marshall, had problems on the road at Old Dominion, and just came off a loss at home against Rutgers. While they have done well against the pass, they haven't gone against a true aerial assault like they're seeing this week. To make matters worse, they cannot stop the rush at all on defense. On offense, they've already committed five turnovers. The Hurricanes, which are 4-0 straight up and 3-1 against the spread, are playing the first Conference contest. I look for them to keep their foot in the gas. Take Miami. Thank you.

Army Black Knights.

TD Play.

Game 103.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Black Knights of Army are 3-0 overall, which does include a 2-0 mark in Conference play. Another victory tonight against one of the Conferences poorest teams, the Temple Owls, and they can put some real distance between themselves and the rest of the AAC. This is a team that travels well, is a perfect 3-0 against the spread this season, and possesses one of the most ferocious rushing units in the nation. They are averaging over 356.0 yards per game on the ground, over 34.3 points per game, and have only turned the ball over once. Meanwhile, their stop unit is exactly that, allowing just 9.3 points per game. Yes, maybe they haven't faced some of the toughest opposition yet, but Temple is hardly that, a tough opponent. The Owls come off their first win of the campaign, and I look for them to come back down to Earth here, and get trampled. Offensively, not only do they score just 19.8 points per game, but they've already committed 11 turnovers. And with no rushing attack whatsoever(113th), there's no way they can control the clock or the tempo in this matchup. The Black Knight’s know they are just a couple of solid victories away from perhaps cracking the Top 25. They will make a statement. Take Army. Thank you.

Kansas State Wildcats.

Crusher.

Game 353.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST.

At 3-0, Kansas State enters this matchup ranked 13th in the nation, and faces a BYU opponent to open up their Big 12 schedule. The oddsmakers are giving the Wildcats a lot of respect here, making them a touchdown favorite in Provo. But for good reason. K State is a very good team. They've already taken down a few solid opponents in Tulane and Arizona. While, the Cougars looked good against SMU, I think we can agree, the Mustangs aren’t the team they once were. I believe, despite covering five straight games, BYU is overvalued here. This line should be a little bit higher. In my opinion, it should be double-digits. The Cougars had a lot of problems facing Conference opponents a season ago. And I believe this season, things will go from bad to worse for them in Big 12 play. Without a solid ground attack to keep the Wildcats defense honest, I don't see their offense moving to chains too well. Especially because through three games, they've already committed four turnovers. On the flipside, I see Kansas State running amok with a solid ground attack, that will open up their passing game. This game gets ugly. Take the Wildcats. Thank you.

Fresno State Bulldogs.

Late Info Move

Game 351.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

They say revenge is a dish best served cold. When Fresno State comes to Albuquerque, trust me, they will exact some revenge from last November’s 25-17 loss as a 23.0-point favorite. Very quietly, the Bulldogs are just one of three Mountain West teams currently with winning records. Just in front of them is San Jose State, which I think we can all agree is beatable, and UNLV, which hasn't surprised us here in Southern Nevada. But it's surprising many out there. The Bulldogs have an opportunity to go 3-1 and also win their Conference opener. This team kept the game a lot closer than the 30-10 loss on the road at Michigan to open up the regular season. Trust me when I tell you that game was a lot closer than the score. They did cover the pointspread though, folks. Then they came back and shut down Sac State, and absolutely shredded New Mexico State last week. Meanwhile New Mexico, despite covering two of their three outings, has a defense that absolutely looks to be the doormat of the Conference. They allowed Middle Tennessee State to put up 35 points, Arizona to post 61, and Auburn to slash them for 45. Granted, they were a big underdog in all three of those contests. But this team is absolutely horrible on the defensive side of the ball. To be honest, they rank 131st in points allowed. While we're on the subject, they rank dead last in college football against the rush, and 123rd against the pass. This does not bode well as they are facing a very dangerous, FSU offense, behind the arm of quarterback, Keene, and the legs of running back, Sherrod. They are very well-balanced. Normally, I would look to fade a team like this in this situation because they are taking it to the road their next game to play the undefeated, UNLV Rebels. But I think this is a game that they seriously want because they lost last year in an embarrassing fashion. Lay the points with the Bulldogs to take a bite out of the Lobos, and get their revenge. Take Fresno State. Thank you.

Baylor Bears.

Consensus.

Game 357.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

After a hot start at the beginning of the 2023/2024 season, in which Colorado won their first three outings, they finished the regular season dropping eight of their final nine games. They opened up this campaign with a lackluster five-point victory over North Dakota State, then got crushed on the road at Nebraska. Last week they came back to beat a very mediocre, Colorado State opponent also on the road. They return home here still getting headlines. Maybe it's because of their famous, head coach or because his son is the quarterback. Speaking of which, with all respect to Shedur Sanders, who many feel is already distracted, looking forward to the NFL next season, he has to line up against a Baylor pass defense that ranks number one in the nation, allowing just 75.7 yards per game in the air. If you're looking for money, look no further than the Bears, which have covered four straight games going back to last season. This is a matchup you will see the Buffaloes weaknesses exploited. This team is not only poor against the pass, they are extremely poor against the run as well. And that will be the difference. The fact the Bears can run the ball with success, control the clock, and the tempo of the game is going to be a big benefit for the team. Colorado does not have a rushing attack. Therefore, it makes them one-dimensional, offensively, allowing the Baylor defense to attack the young quarterback and force turnovers. The wrong team is favored here. But I'll take the points with the Bears. Take Baylor. Thank you.

Cal Golden Bears.

TOP PLAY BEST BET.

Game 339.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

For starters, I feel the line is off here. The game should be a pick 'em. Having said that, Florida State, held a preseason ranking of number 10 in the country. Wow, was that an incorrect ranking or what? OK, they got stunned in their first outing this season on the road at Georgia Tech. But if they were any good, they would've come back, I should say bounced back and put a whooping on Boston College at home, which they did not. They lost out right as a double-digit favorite. To go one further, if they had any grit whatsoever, they would have avenged that loss the following week at home against Memphis. This is an offense that has accounted for only 46 points through three games against some less than stellar defenses. On the other hand, Cal has won all three of their outings covering two of the three, and to be honest, they could've covered their first outing at home against UC Davis. But this is a team that took to the road already all the way to the East Coast to beat Auburn as a double-digit underdog on Auburn's home field, 21-14, then they absolutely manhandled San Diego State last week. They don't do it pretty. But the Golden Bears are winning games with a well-balanced offense, and really don't turn the ball over. On the flipside, the defense very quietly leads the nation in turnovers. They've snagged nine takeaways already. This doesn't bode well for DJ Uiagalelei, who we always felt was a bit overrated. The guys having issues. Giving this team points is a mistake. I'd like them out right but I'll take the 2.5 points here. Take Cal. Thank you.

Arkansas Razorbacks.

TD play.

Game 365.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

At first glance, you would think the fav is the play here. Don't get me wrong, it is a tough matchup. However, Auburn is seriously overvalued here. Arkansas has played extremely well so far this season. Yes, they blew up Ark. Pine Bluff to start the campaign. It is their second game of the season, their only loss, on the road at Oklahoma State that really intrigues me. They had a chance to win that game, but did cover, losing a heartbreaker, 39-31 on the road. And then came back and took down UAB a week ago. Auburn did the same thing in their annihilation of Alabama A&M. But then got embarrassed as a double-digit favorite at home against Cal. They did come back last week to dismantle New Mexico at home. But this team really hasn't been tested thus far. The Razorbacks are battle-tested after that competitive road contest at the Cowboys. Arkansas has a smart quarterback, a solid ground game, and defensively is extremely tough against the run. They have an opportunity here to control the clock of this contest. One more thing that really compels us to side with the ‘dog here: Auburn has committed nine turnovers already on offense. This doesn't bode well as they're facing their first SEC defense. Take Arkansas. Thank you.

Army Black Knights.

OM Play.

Game 348.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Army comes into this matchup well rested, coming off a bye week following a perfect 2-0 start to the season, both straight up and against the spread. As a matter of fact, going back to last season, the Black Knights are now riding a six-game straight up win streak in which they've covered five of the six games. They line up against, in all honesty, what will be one of their easiest opponents of the 2024 campaign. Before they go into some tough conference matchups, this is their last opportunity to fine-tune their squad. What better team to take it out on then an Owls opponent, possessing very little offense, and a defense that is getting slashed over 151 yards per game on the ground. By the way, Army tops the nation in rushing, averaging, get this, 390 yards per game on the ground. Take the Black Knights. Thank you.

TCU.

Consensus.

Game 188.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Nothing like beating New Hampshire and Sam Houston to boost your ego. However, Central Florida is in for a rude awakening here as they travel to Amon G. Carter Stadium to face TCU on their own home field. The Horned Frogs are 7-2, both SU and ATS in Conference home games over the last two seasons, with their two losses both coming by just a field goal against the Mountaineers and the Longhorns. Giving them points at home is a mistake. Take TCU. Thank you.

UCLA.

No Limit.

Game 194.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

I really feel the odd makers have it way off here. I don't see Indiana being a favorite on the road in their Big Ten opener. Facing FIU and WIU at home is a far cry from facing UCLA in the Rose Bowl. The bruins roar here. Thank you.

Oregon State.

Game 140.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

With lackluster performances over Idaho and Boise State, Oregon has failed to cover both outings this season. They take to the road for the first time to face an opponent in Oregon State that knows them quite well, doesn't like them at all, and will come in here to play their most important game of the season. Way too many points. Take the Beavers. Thank you.

Pitt.

Backyard Brawl.

Game 142.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

The Backyard Brawl is back! It's true, West Virginia has looked sharper than Pitt over recent seasons. However, I believe they are both trending in different directions now. The Mountaineers have failed to cover both outings thus far, and are taking it on the road for the first time this season. Meanwhile, the Panthers have won and covered both of their outings thus far. Getting points under Pat Narduzzi is a gift, particularly at home. Take Pitt. Thank you.

Notre Dame.

Oddsmakers Mistake.

Game 149.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

I really feel bad for Purdue here, my friends. Yes, they have won both of their games already this season. But they must now face a Notre Dame opponent which comes off their most embarrassing defeat in as far back as I can recall. Please remember the Fighting Irish still have a heck of a defense, and quarterback, Riley Leonard must break out here before he loses his starting spot. What better stop-unit to face to do just that, than a Boilermakers "D" that is one of the softest in the nation. Take Notre Dame. Thank you.

Alabama.

Early Winner.

Game 115.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

I know road openers aren't the biggest priority over recent years for the Crimson Tide. However, this is a big game for the team. While the Badgers are not a top-25 team, they are just outside the bubble. Looking at Alabama's recent performances against Big Ten foes, they are 5-0 ATS the last five in this situation. I know how good Wisconsin is as an underdog, especially a double-digit 'dog at home. But going up against the likes of Western Michigan and South Dakota, which by the way they failed to cover in both, is a big difference from stepping up in class and playing a team that needs to keep their foot on the gas because they lost their legendary head coach, and a few big names to the NFL. 'Bama has something to prove here. After this week, they have a bye before taking on Georgia at home. They must fine tune their squad here and now. Take the Tide. Thank you.

Arizona.

Friday Night Lights.

Game 109.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Kansas State trailed Tulane by 10 at halftime last week, and got lucky finishing the game with a 34-27 win and no cover on the road. Arizona won both home games already against New Mexico and Northern Arizona. But they have failed to cover both. One thing for sure, despite yielding 39 points to the Lobos, they certainly possess the better defense. This is a team that has now won nine consecutive games SU, going back to mid-October of last season. Oh, by the way they also won five of six regular season road games a season ago, straight up, covering four of the six. And that was before taking down Oklahoma in a December 28 Bowl game on a neutral site. Giving them a touchdown is way too much. Take the Wildcats. Thank you.

Oklahoma.

Crusher Play.

Game 384.

4:45 PM PST/7:45 PM EST.

With last week’s lackluster, 27-7 defeat at the hands of UNLV at home as a 3.5-point favorite, Houston has now dropped and failed to cover four straight going back to last season. With some of the top ranked teams in college football already going down or looking vulnerable, Oklahoma, which loves to open a season beating up on lesser opponents, will come out here with something to prove, and make a statement that they deserve to be in the top-10. To insult to injury, the Sooners, which left the Big 12 for the SEC this season, get to take down a representative from their old Conference. Take Oklahoma. Thank you.

Nebraska.

Consensus Play.

Game 382.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

They say revenge is a dish best served cold. Nebraska, which happens to be significantly stronger this season, dropped last season's meeting with Colorado in Boulder, 36-14. That was back when the Buffaloes, led by head coach, Deion Sanders were the talk of the college football town. Since then, the team has come back down to Earth, and have shown very little. Yes, quarterback Sanders and wide receiver, Hunter are a very dangerous 1-2 punch. But there aren't too many more weapons offensively for Colorado, and we all know their defense is one of the worst in the nation. I really think this line should be between 10-14 points. Take the Cornhuskers. Thank you.

Alabama.

High Roller play.

Game 360.

4:00 PM PS/7:00 PM EST.

On paper, this is a real test, the first true test for Alabama. However, football is in played on paper, it is played on the gridiron. Last season when these two teams met, there were a lot of different variables in play when the Crimson Tide took down the Bulls, 17-3. They will not take this game lightly. Please understand while South Florida is a good team, when they face solid opposition, they fold like a cheap suit. I just don't feel they have the talent to compete in this one with an Alabama opponent trying desperately to make a name themselves in the post-Nick Saban era. Take the Crimson Tide. Thank you.

Virginia.

OM play.

Game 363.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

My friends, I looked at this game every which way, and I just don't see how Virginia is an underdog. Hug revenge factor here for the Cavaliers, which have dropped five in a row against the Demon Deacons, both straight up and against the spread, going back to 2008. Not impressed at all with Wake Forest’s win and no cover against North Carolina AT&T last week. Prior to that, this team lost five in a row and eight of their last nine straight up only covering three of those contests. With ACC representatives, Florida State, Clemson, and Virginia Tech all losing already, Virginia knows they have an opportunity to jump out in the Conference. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

Tulane.

No Limit.

Game 308.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

While I do feel Kansas State is a good team, making them nearly a double-digit favorite over one of the best Group of Five squads in the nation is a huge mistake here. The Green Wave took down the Wildcats two years ago, and not much has changed here. They have what it takes to notches compete here. They can win this contest outright. So, making them this much of a ‘dog is a gift for us. Take to Tulane. Thank you.

LSU Tigers.

Late Bailout.

Game 217.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Yes, it's true both LSU and USC lost a ton of talent. Both of these teams were all about offense last season, both possessing top-five scoring units. It is also true neither defense was ranked too well. However, there are a couple of key items that I want you to understand. For starters, the Tigers offensive unit did not turn the ball over last season. Meanwhile, the Trojans had problems, despite having all those stars on their squad. LSU also played pretty consistent football throughout the regular season, and had a January 1 Bowl game victory over Wisconsin.  Meanwhile USC was a top-10 ranked team through the first week of October a season ago. But they didn't play anyone of standing. I mean, they were favorites of between 21.5 to 38.0 points in all of those contests. When their schedule toughened, they went 1-5, both straight up and against the spread. There's a big difference playing teams like San Jose State and Nevada, and playing opponents like Notre Dame and Oregon. By the way, they also failed to cover nine of their 12 regular season outings. LSU was successful against the number, going 8-4 ATS during the regular season. I believe there's more of an urgency for the Tigers to make a showing here. In two weeks, they have to go on the road and play the Gamecocks, and the following week, at home against the Bruins. They have to fine-tune their team prior to that. Meanwhile the Trojans have a “gimme” game next week and can take it easy against the Aggies of Utah State at home, before an off week, and then must travel up to Ann Arbor to take on the Wolverines. So, they have a little time. You will see a lot of offense here, for sure. LSU also remains in their same Conference of the SEC, while USC moved over to the Big Ten. A lot of changes for the Trojans to adjust to. Oh, one more item: I live in Vegas. You would think there would be significantly more Trojans fans here. Not the case at all. Take the Tigers. Thank you.

Michigan.

Best Bet.

Game 208.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

 Playing in Ann Arbor isn't easy for any visitor, that's for sure. But I think you're going to see a Michigan Wolverines team here come out to make a statement. Yes, it's impossible to match a 15-0 season that ended with a National Championship my friends. And it is true the Wolverines have seen their head coach, their starting quarterback, and their top running back all the depart for bigger and better. Maybe that's why this team is ranked only ninth by the preseason pollsters. But their head coach, Sherrone Moore was the acting coach four games last year when Jim Harbaugh was suspended. I doubt very much he's going to be overwhelmed here. There are certainly questions about Michigan's offense this season. However, please understand that the top teams in the country are stacked with talent higher than the pancakes at your favorite breakfast establishment. They also return quite a few playmakers from what was one of the toughest stop-units in the country a season ago. If you recall in most of their games, they allowed 13 or less points. Only Maryland and Ohio State were able to score more than 20, and mind you, Michigan won both of those games. They also have Texas up next. Sometimes I look at situations and say a team is going to get caught in a “look ahead” mode. That’s not the case here. They have to come out here and keep their foot on the gas from start to finish. They must fine tune their offense so they are prepared for Texas next week. As far as Fresno State goes, three Mountain West teams have visited Ann Arbor over the last several seasons, and all three lost by at least 28 points. If you recall, a season ago, the Bulldogs went -76 yards per game differential. There's no way they could perform here like that and keep this matchup anywhere near the pointspread. To add insult to injury, head coach, Jeff Tedford had to leave a month ago, and whispers around college football says his team still hasn't recovered. Their quarterback is decent. But turns the ball over way too much. This doesn't bode well lining up against this top-ranked defense that also snagged 18 turnovers a season ago. I think Michigan comes out here with something to prove, and proves it with authority. Take the Wolverines. Thank you.

Penn State.

Early Game Winner.

Game 171.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

 Penn State enters the first game of this season ranked eighth in the nation. On the other hand, West Virginia shocked a lot of people out there, last season, by finishing fourth in the Big 12. Two teams that finished ahead of them were Texas and Oklahoma, which have both coincidentally left the Conference. So many out there think the Mountaineers are going to be a force to be reckoned with in their League. Having said that, the Nittany Lions head coach, James Franklin certainly enjoys beating up on lesser foes. These two met in last year's season opener, which had PSU win and cover the 21-point spread, 38-15. It is true, Penn State has new coordinators both on offense and defense. But a lot of playmakers are returning on both sides of the ball, and they are loaded my friends. The Nittany Lions don't have a serious threat for a while on their schedule. So, they must maintain their top 10 status, and also use this game here to get all their ducks in a row for the regular season. If you recall, a season ago, not only was their offense extremely successful, but their defense was one of the best in college football. That's where this game will be won. Their stout defense against an offense, particularly the West Virginia offensive line which only returns two starters upfront, is going to get manhandled. They did finish off last season with an embarrassing loss in a Bowl game on December 30, at the hands of Mississippi, 38-25 as a 6.0-point favorite. I look for them to come out here and really make a statement to the nation and the pollsters.  I know this is a game that can be overlooked. But I doubt Coach Franklin will take it very lightly. Remember, style points count. The Nittany Lions will roar here. Take Penn State. Thank you.

Florida State Seminoles.

Season Kickoff Winner.

Game 305.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

My friends, I am always apprehensive about laying double digits, especially in the first week of the season. But this is a very interesting matchup. Florida State enters this regular season ranked 10th nationally. Preseason predictions have them fighting it out with Clemson for the ACC title. The Seminoles do have a matchup with the Tigers on October 5. Prior to that, I don't see them having too much opposition. Having said that, if you recall a season ago FSU ran the gauntlet and went perfect during the regular season at 12-0. They also, despite laying double-digits in all but three games, did pretty good against the spread, covering seven of those 12 contests. They then went onto the Conference Championship and took the Louisville Cardinals down as an underdog, 16-6. We all know what happened when they faced the Georgia Bulldogs in late-December. Yes, granted there were without several key starters on offense, but they were absolutely blown out. As a matter of fact, it was a true embarrassment for this team. Especially after the wonderful season they had. Not much is expected of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets this season. However, a season ago they were money, covering seven of their 10 outings. Now the last time these two teams met, was back in October of 2022 when Florida State shredded Georgia Tech, 41-16. As I mentioned earlier in this breakdown, I don't like laying double-digits especially this early in the campaign. Guys, I do feel the Seminoles have to come out here and make a statement, not just to the rest of the Conference, but the entire nation that they are well-deserved and worthy of their national ranking. I think they come out here and crush it.  Please remember that this team is loaded with veteran playmakers. They are loaded on offense for sure. But their defense was so tough last year, and they return some big names on the stop end of the ball. They have to come out here and make a statement for sure. Take Florida State. Thank you.

Michigan Wolverines.

National Championship Game Winner.

Game 288.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Just like me, I'm going to keep this game analysis very short and extremely sweet (lol). There is no question that both Washington and Michigan deserve to be here. Both completed the entire campaign perfect, at 14-0. Both played and beat the best in their conference title games. I mean the Huskies took down the Longhorns, 37-31 as a 3.5-point underdog. The Wolverines came on strong at the end of the fourth quarter, and then won in overtime against, what many people thought was the best team in the College Football Playoff, the Crimson Tide. There are a few major disparities here. With all respect to Washington, and their top-ranked, passing offense, they have not faced a defense as complete as the one they are lining up against here. Not only is Michigan the most ferocious and well-balanced defense they will have faced this season, but they are equally strong in the air and on the ground. The Wolverines stop-unit leads the nation, allowing just 9.5 points per game, ranks second against the pass, six against the rush, second in total yards allowed, and sixth in takeaways. On the opposite side of the ball, let's face it, the Huskies give up a lot of points. That rank 50th nationally, allowing 23.6 points per game. That's bad enough. But the Wolverines offense is so well-balanced and so dangerous it is impossible to shut them down. They have a smart quarterback at the helm. And I believe that's where the big contrast will be. The Huskies rank 122nd, defensively against the pass. Quarterback, JJ McCarthy is smart, capable, and must be salivating, knowing he's going to pass the ball at will here. Remember, if the Huskies key on the pass attack of the Wolverines, Michigan could then fall back on the rushing attack of Blake Corum. A lot of talk is that head coach, Jim Harbaugh is going to be departing for the NFL after this game. Now these are just rumors. But there's a lot of talk surrounding his future just might just be in Las Vegas. And if that does happen, he also just might be taking his starting quarterback with him. He will want to leave Ann Arbor with a National Title. Take Michigan. Thank you.

Alabama Crimson Tide.

Game 279.

2:00 PM PST/5:00 PM EST.

With all respect to Michigan and their 13-0 season, I think we can all agree, they didn't play the toughest schedule out there. And as the season, progressed, and they did play some better teams, they had struggled a bit. Penn State, Maryland, and Ohio State all gave them a tough time. But make no mistake of it, they are going up against the toughest defense they will have had to face this season. Alabama not only owns a stop-unit that allows just 18.4 points per game, but they have gone up against and completely shut down quite a few solid offenses. I think we can all agree that neither in the air or on the ground, the wolverines Are explosive. It is their defense that allows their offense success. I believe their passing a game will be in real trouble here as the Crimson Tides pass defense has improved with each game this season, and is now in my opinion, one of the best in the nation. Offensively, Alabama's quarterback, Jalen Milroe has matured better than any other player in the country. Let's be honest, my friends, when this team dropped their second game of the season in early-September, at the hands of Texas, Nick Saban read them the riot act, and they got on course and were on a mission. They have not dropped the game since, annihilating all opponents. Not only that, but they've covered eight of 10 since that loss. Sabin and his coaching staff have had more than enough time to prepare for the Michigan team. There is no way they're going to drop this game as they want nothing less than another national title. The only thing standing is this week’s opponent. There is one more thing that I think is very significant here, my friends. And that is all the off the field distractions the Wolverines are going through. The entire football team, their athletic department, their head coach, coaching staff, etc. There is a lot of distractions. The rumor has it, Jim Harbaugh, no matter what happens, this season, is going to go onto the NFL. There is also some whispers that he will be in a position to also take his quarterback with him. Trust me when I tell you this is a distraction. The Crimson Tide have no distractions. They have one thing on their minds and that is a national title. They scratched and clawed to get here. I believe Michigan will come in a bit overconfident and get taken by surprise. Take Alabama. Thank you.

Tennessee Volunteers.

Game 276.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

I am well aware Tennessee lost their starting quarterback, Joe Milton III, who opted out of the Citrus Bowl. We all know how good the Iowa defense has performed once again this season. However, the offense is absolutely atrocious. They can't put up too many points on any opponent. The one thing Tennessee has, is depth. They have enough talent to not just get a win here, but get the cover for us. Take the Volunteers. Thank you.

Oregon Ducks.

Game 278.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

In all sincerity, the Oregon Ducks were just a few points away from a College Football Playoff invitation. Losing to the Washington Huskies in the Pac-12 Championship game by three-points, dropped this team to the No. 5 spot and a New Year's Day Bowl. There is nothing this team wants more than to exact a little revenge and show the nation that they deserved to be in the CFP. Bo Nix, who is without question one of the greatest college football quarterbacks of all time, will be playing in his last game at the collegiate level. Trust me when I tell you he wants to go out on a high note. They don't just want to win this game; they want to crush the Liberty Flames. Speaking of which, the Flames finished the campaign off at 13-0 and have some impressive numbers on both sides of the ball. They rank fifth in the nation in scoring and 46th on defense. That's all well and good. However, they haven't faced a top tier team. For goodness sake, they haven’t even faced a medium tier team. While there is a lot of talent on this squad, I just don't see them competing with the Mighty Ducks (LOL).  What better way to go out for Nix and the Oregon team, then to annihilate the Flames, giving them their first loss of the season and giving the pollsters something to remember. Take Oregon. Thank you.

Play PSU.

As of posting this play, by far, Penn State will be affected less significantly than Mississippi as far as opt out or transfer portals. But more than that, the Nittany Lions were hoping for a New Year's day Bowl for sure. They feel a little short-changed here because they suffered two losses. But this is a team on both sides of the ball that are loaded with playmakers, and guys that are starters, which are coming back next year. They want this game. They want this Bowl. Take Penn State. Thank you.

Play Clemson.

Despite rumors that Kentucky's early NFL draft entrants are going to play and some of Clemson’s are not, it reflects in the number still. The Tigers want and more over need this win. This is a team for more than a decade dominated college football. And yet they're just 8-4 this season. But please remember they finished strong, winning of covering their last four games. They want to win this Bowl game and finish out the year on a high note. Take Clemson. Thank you.

Oklahoma.

Game 2056.

6:15 PM PST/9:15 PM EST.

There are certainly a lot of good stories in this matchup. Oklahoma begins a new era at the quarterback position. And they narrowly missed playing in a New Year's Bowl Six matchup. I mean playing in the Conference they play in and going 10-2 is pretty darn respectable, in my opinion. On the opposite Sideline, Arizona is trying to match their longest winning streak in 25 years. And they were certainly one of college football's biggest surprises this season. But the line is off my friends. I understand quarterback, Dillon Gabriel will not be at the helm here. This is truly a big loss. I also understand that overall, the Sooners rank 100th in pass defense. But they have a smart coach and a long tradition of winning Bowl games. This is a very well-balanced team that is truly deep at every major position. They had one of the best rushing attacks in the country and average over 43.2 points per game, which is good enough for being the third highest-scoring team in the nation. Defensively, they rank second in takeaways, snagging 19 turnovers. Oh, by the way, they only allow 22.3 points per game in a Conference known for some of the most explosive offenses. The Arizona defense is good, but they're not very good at creating turnovers. They're also not very good against the pass either. And trust me when I tell you, backup quarterbacks in Oklahoma can start for just about any other team in the country. The line is off here. Take the Sooners. Thank you.

NC State.

Game 253.

2:45 PM PST/5:45 PM EST.

Several of the teams this Bowl season lost starters, and yet still played very well. Trust me when I tell you Kansas State will not be one of those teams. Losing quarterback, Will Howard and the teams second-leading rusher, running back Treshaun Ward, it's a big blow for this offense. This is a good team, don't get me wrong. But you just can't fill the shoes so easily of an on-the-field general and leader like Howard. Especially against the team like NC State, which ended the season with five consecutive wins and covers, four of which they were a ‘dog. Brennan Armstrong should be back at the helm here (check status). But I don't think it matters, because this team and their success solely revolves around their defense. And their defense is intact. They only allow 20.2 points per game. And have snagged over 17 takeaways already this season. Whoever is at the helm for the Wildcats, is going to be in for a long day. Take the Wolfpack. Thank you.

Miami Florida.

Game 252.

11:15 AM PST/2:15 PM EST.

With word starting quarterback, Tyler Van Dyke, and back up, Emory Williams, not playing here, oddsmakers have the line at Rutgers -1.5 (as of post). Please remember, this team was a solid team this season. They were only a handful of points away from 10 wins. Yes, they finished 7-5. But three of their losses were by a touchdown or less. I just don't see Rutgers, which ended the season on a four-game lose and no cover streak, competing with them. Yes, the Scarlet Knights have a very strong rushing attack. But they're going up against the 11th-ranked run defense in college football. Offensively, overall, the Scarlet Knights average a mere, 22.2 points per game. Yes, I see their defense overall played well. But please remember that those numbers are skewed as some of the teams they thumped were teams like the Owls of Temple and the Seahawks of Wagner. When they went up against strong defensive units, they folded like a chief suit as they will hear today once again. Let’s not forget they are riding a four-game slide, both SU and ATS Take Miami. Thank you.

SMU.

Game 249.

8:00 AM PST/11:00 AM EST.

My friends, with no major opt outs in this Bowl game, it seems like we are in uncharted territories (lol). What amazes me is the fact that SMU, which finished first in the AAC at 11-2, is only a 10-point favorite over BC, which finished 10th in the ACC at 6-6. I know, I know, I know, there are some mismatches between these Conferences during the Bowl season. But I don't think this is one of them. The Mustangs enter this match up on a nine-game straight up winning streak, going 6-3 against the spread. Meanwhile, the Eagles finished their campaign on a three-game slide, both straight up and against the spread. Granted, Boston College has a quarterback and a running back that put up some impressive numbers, facing the SMU very stingy defense is going to be a tall order for the team. The ‘Stangs allowed just 17.4 points per game this season against some very good offensive units. They are equally good against the pass as they are against the rush. Because their defense is so good it allows their offense to tire out opponents defensive units and put points on the board as they average over 40.6 points per game, offensively. I think there's a major mismatch between their 36th-ranked, rushing attack and the Eagles 125th ranked run defense. This game is going to be won by more than two touchdowns. Take SMU. Thank you.

West Virginia

2:30 PM PST/5:30 PM EST.

Very simply, West Virginia is one of the most complete teams in the Bowl season, with only a few players opting out here. Meanwhile, North Carolina lost their entire offense. Quarterback, Drake Maye will be going to the draft. The dual-threat QB was their on-the-field at general. The combination of the nation’s third-ranked, rushing attack on offense, and a very stout intact defense, tells me West Virginia is the play here. Take the Mountaineers. Thank you.

Tulane.

Game 242.

11:00 AM PST/2:00 PM EST.

This time of year, it seems more about the transfer portal and opt outs than it does the actual players that are playing. While the team lost a couple of key cogs in their offensive wheel, please remember the Green Wave wasn't about the offense this year. They are about the defense. Their stop-unit allows just 18.9 points per game and earned them victories over such teams as South Alabama, Memphis, and UTSA. They will completely shut down the Hokies ability to run the ball, thus taking away their entire offense. On the flipside, Tulane does have a solid ground attack and that is certainly a weakness for the West Virginia defense. And allows the Green Wave to control the clock. Take Tulane. Thank you.

Bowling Green Falcons.

Game 235.

11:00 AM PST/2:00 PM EST.

Money was originally coming in on the underdog here. But the last few days the general public has been playing the favorite. My friends, I have the line here way off. My two sets of power ratings have Bowling Green a slight favorite of 1.5 points. Yes, I know Minnesota plays in a stronger Conference. But this is a team that was a doormat in Big Ten play. And they finished the season on a four-game slide, both straight up and against the spread. They have to take the field without their starting quarterback, Athan Kaliakmamis, who started every game this season, but has entered the transfer portal. They turn the reins over to Cole Kramer, making his first start. This is already a lackluster offense, averaging just 20.2 points per game, even when they had their first string QB at the helm, ranking 126th in passing and just 79th in rushing. The Falcons have a seasoned quarterback in Connor Bazelak, and a couple of strong rushers in the backfield. But is there defense that will shine here. They're one of the best in the nation in takeaways (16), only allow 23.5 points per game, and are equally strong against the pass as well as the rush. They will spend more time in the Minnesota backfield then the Minnesota players themselves (lol). Let's not forget this team comes in here red-hot, winning and covering five of their last six games. And they are not intimidated by their opponent. As the last time they faced one another, they beat the Golden Gophers, 14-10, just two years ago. Take Bowling Green. Thank you.

Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Game 212.

6:15 PM PST/9:15 PM EST.

It's been reported the Red Raiders are expected to be without better than a dozen players for this contest. Don't overthink this. The Golden Bears will also be without quite a few playmakers. I know Cal ended their campaign winning and covering three straight. But going up against Texas Tech, coming off a loss, their first loss in November, an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Texas, will prove to be fatal for California. The Red Raiders are riding a Bowl hot streak, earning back-to-back outright upset wins over the last two seasons, beating the Mississippi State Bulldogs as a 10.0-point underdog in 2021, and ‘Ole Miss as a 4.5-point underdog last season. While, Texas Tech on paper is going to be shorthanded, offensively, expected to play is quarterback, Behren Morton, and running back, Tahj Brooks. Morton had a 61.8% completion rate, passing for 1,498 yards, with 12 TD’s and just seven INT’s, while Brooks tallied over 1,447 yards rushing and nine scores. There's also a significant advantage in turnovers, both offensively and defensively for the Red Raiders. Take Texas Tech. Thank you.

New Mexico State Aggies.

Game 207.

2:45 P PST/5:45 PM EST.

Both teams here will be missing some key players due to the usual opt outs this time of year. However, it looks like the Bulldogs have been hit a little bit harder with this issue than the Aggies. Following an eight-game win and cover streak, New Mexico State took a loss against Liberty on December 1. I expect this team to bounce back with a vengeance and earn a big Bowl victory here. This is a team that can put up points on just about any opponent, with a well-balanced offense. But it will be their ground game, which ranks 12th in the nation that will absolutely devour the 98th ranked rush defense of Fresno State. We are all well aware the Aggies secondary is vulnerable. I doubt this will be a problem, as the Bulldogs are having serious concerns at the quarterback position. Fresno State has also crushed bettors, covering just one of their last eight contests. Take New Mexico State. Thank you.

Navy Midshipmen.

Game 104.

12:00 PM PST/3:00 PM EST.

We all know these teams know each other very, very, well. For many years, Navy dominated this rivalry. Then in 2016, Army began their first of three consecutive wins in this historic rivalry. However, over the last four years, they have alternated wins, both straight up and against the spread. If you recall, a season ago, the Black Knights bested the Midshipmen, 20-17 in overtime. Now that's not enough reason for me to side with Navy here. But it certainly peaked my curiosity. Both teams are known as rushing powerhouses. However, this season both tried to open up their passing games with a little more success than they have had in previous years. There are a few key items that prompt me to take the Midshipmen here. For starters, they are much stronger against the rush than their counterpart. As a matter of fact, they rank 30th nationally against the run, yielding just 121.9 yards per game on the ground. Army allows 178.4 yards per game on the ground, ranking 114th. Turnovers are big, especially in matchups like this. And there is no question that the Midshipmen are better on both sides of the ball in that category. Army turned the ball over 11 times on offense, while their defense has only snagged eight takeaways. Meanwhile, Navy has just seven offensive turnovers, while their defensive unit snagged 10 takeaways. Also, on defense, although they both allow about the same amount of points, the Midshipmen have blanked three opponents this season. At times yes, it is true, they have allowed several solid opponents to put up numbers on them. But those three shutouts really mean a lot coming into this matchup, in my opinion. Outside of an early- season contest against Delaware State, Army has allowed every single opponent to score on them. Going back to the revenge factor, the last dozen meetings in this series, the avenger is 10-2 ATS. Take Navy. Thank you.

Alabama Crimson Tide.

Game 318.

1:00 PM PST/4:00 PM EST.

With all respect to the Georgia Bulldogs, Nick Saban doesn't lose too many big games. Not only that, but as far as us sports bettors are concerned, the Alabama Crimson Tide has covered eight of their 12 outings this season, while their opponent has only covered five of their 12 contests in 2023. Quarterback Jalen Milroe has matured this season, better than just about any other player in college football. He proved he can lead, he can win, and he can win in big games. The situation is very simple, Alabama beats Georgia and they could jump into the four-team College Football Playoff. The early season loss to Texas stunned many people, including the Tide themselves. But they went on a 10-game straight up winning streak, covering seven of the 10. And last weeks late comeback victory on the road at the Tigers showed me exactly what Milroe and the Alabama team are made of. I think the line in this matchup should be a lot closer to two or maybe even a field goal. But no higher than that. And that's only because Georgia is undefeated this season. I'm not sold on Kirby Smart in big game situations. This is the most complete team the Bulldogs have gone up against this season. It is a big step up in class for them. and I think they're going to come in here overconfident and underestimating their opponent. Take the points and Roll Tide! Thank you.