4. Utah at Oregon State
LINE Utah -3
ATS PICK Utah
Utah was my call.
While Pac-12 friends were trying to sell me that Arizona State was the hot new thing the kids were all into, and one of them might still be right that UCLA is about to rise up and take over the conference. I believed Utah was going to make it three South titles in four years – and still do.
It’s changed a little bit since part of my belief was based on former Baylor QB Charlie Brewer stepping in – he left the program a few weeks ago – but Cameron Rising has been excellent.
More than that, the lines are starting to play like they’re supposed to – the run defense has been terrific over the last few games – as the Utes have fought through the tragedy of losing two teammates over the last year to put together an inspiring season.
Oregon State does a whole lot of things right – it starts with winning on third downs – however, expect more of the 30-21 loss to Purdue type of performance than the 45-27 win over USC.
Yes, Oregon State is 3-0 at home, but Utah really is playing just that well and it really is just that good.