4. Minnesota at Wisconsin
LINE: Wisconsin -12.5
ATS PICK: Minnesota
– Bet on this, BetMGM latest line
Full disclosure, I grew up in Minneapolis around the University of Minnesota, and I went to Wisconsin. I’m way, way past the fanboy thing when it comes to college football, but yeah, I’m fired up when these two play the Paul Bunyan Axe game.
Everyone says their respective rivalry game matters. This one really does to both of these programs, and it’s a great thing that it’s back on as the season-maker for the winner.
First of all, not that you asked, but the under on the 47.5 might be a lock – and this plays into the ATS pick.
Until Wisconsin proves it can score again, assume it can’t.
Until Wisconsin’s defense isn’t No. 1 in the nation, assume it still is.
The problems with the Badger offense haven’t suddenly changed over the last few weeks. The receiving corps is still banged up, RB Jalen Berger missed the Iowa game, and the offense that ripped Illinois and Michigan to shreds went bye-bye a long time ago.
Minnesota’s defense isn’t anything special, but it’s decent enough to not be totally gouged. The issue, though, ATS, is that it’s going to be up to a shockingly mediocre passing game to get things going against the Badger defensive front – star RB Mohamed Ibrahim should be in for a long day.
The 12.5 is just too much to give away to a team that scored 20 points total over the last three games. Wisconsin wins, but the O doesn’t all of a sudden find its groove again.