5 Best College Football Predictions: Point Totals Week 3

What five games appear to be the best bets and the best point total picks going into Week 3? Here you go. Enjoy.

What five games appear to be the best bets and the best point total picks going into Week 3? Here you go. Enjoy.


Week 3 Fearless Predictions, Game Previews 
Week 3 Schedule, Times, Lines, Previews
CFN Fearless Predictions & Game Previews
Week 3 College Final Thoughts, Betting Advice
Week 3 Expert Picks & Predictions: College
Week 2 Expert Picks & Predictions: NFL
Week 3 10 Best College Picks vs. The Spread

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Results So Far, Point Totals: 8-5

Click on each game for the game preview and fearless prediction.

We’re down to just 15 FBS vs. FBS games this week, so we’re turning the 10 Best Point Total Predictions piece into the top five – so we have to nail them cold.

The five point totals that appear to be a wee bit favorable are …

5. Syracuse at Pitt

POINT TOTAL: 49.5
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

Do you really believe in the Pitt offense just because it went off on Austin Peay? The point total is way, way, way low, but the offense struggled and sputtered to get past 30 points in 12 of the 16 games before whacking around the Governors.

The Syracuse offense went off last year in the last three games, but it sputtered and coughed in a 31-6 loss to North Carolina to start the season, and don’t believe that it’ll be able to crank up 24 points or more until you see it.

These two combined for 47 last year in a 27-20 Panther win, and that’s about what it should be this time around.

Week 3 10 Best College Picks vs. The Spread

4. Liberty at WKU

POINT TOTAL: 52.5
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

WKU has everything in place to be an under machine. The defense is good enough to come up with a big season, and the offense is still questionable. The Hilltoppers only came up with 21 points in last week’s loss to Louisville to make it 11 games in last 14 without hitting the 30 point mark.

There’s an offense in place, but even if it goes off, the D could keep Liberty to around 20 or so. If you take out losses to Louisville and Florida Atlantic since the start of November of 2018, WKU has allowed fewer than 30 points in the last 13 games against FBS teams.

Week 3 Expert Picks & Predictions: College

3. Boston College at Georgia Tech

POINT TOTAL51.5
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

You can’t go wrong assuming the under on Georgia Tech no matter what it is.

The Yellow Jackets got by Florida State last week by scoring 16 points.

The program has gone 15 straight games without scoring more than 28 points, and failed to get to 30 in 19 of the last 24. It might be able to pull this off against a Boston College team playing its first game, but until proven otherwise, assume the under.

NEXT: The Top 2 Best Bet Point Totals For Week 3 Are …

10 Best College Football Predictions Against The Spread: Week 3

What ten college football games appear to be the best bets and the best picks against the spread going into Week 3? Here you go. Enjoy.

What ten college football games appear to be the best bets and the best picks against the spread going into Week 3? Here you go. Enjoy.


Week 3 Fearless Predictions, Game Previews 
Week 3 Schedule, Times, Lines, Previews
CFN Fearless Predictions & Game Previews
Week 3 College Final Thoughts, Betting Advice
Week 3 Expert Picks & Predictions: College
Week 2 Expert Picks & Predictions: NFL

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Results So Far ATS: 6-7

Click on each game for the game preview and fearless prediction.

As we said last week, please … be kind.

Normally there are at least 50 FBS games to choose from at this time of year, and this week we have 16 after a few cancellations. This season we – along with everyone else – are flying a bit blind when it comes to teams just starting their seasons, so …

Whatever. No excuses.

The ten lines that appear to be a wee bit favorable are …

10. Wake Forest at NC State

LINENC State -1
ATS PICK: NC State
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

It’s not the big primetime ACC game – that’s Miami at Louisville – but it’s one of the few late games on a smallish Saturday night. Wake Forest rolled in last year’s game 44-10, but NC State should have a far stronger defense, a much more effective offense, and it’s far more experienced. 2009 was the last time the Wolfpack lost a season-opener at home.

Week 3 College Final Thoughts, Betting Advice

9. Houston at Baylor

LINE: Baylor -4
ATS PICK: Baylor
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

This is just pure, unadulterated snobbery, even if the Big 12 hasn’t exactly shown up large so far.

Houston has been prepping for this game for the last year – at least it spent most of last season tuning up for 2020 – and Baylor has a new head coach in Dave Aranda, a whole slew of new defensive parts, and just enough question marks to be concerning.

However, you’re getting the Power Five program only giving away four points at home, and while that didn’t exactly matter last weekend against the Sun Belt, there are still enough good parts from last year’s Baylor team to open up with a win.

Week 2 Expert Picks & Predictions: NFL

8. SMU at North Texas

LINESMU -14
ATS PICK: SMU
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

Texas State was able to hang around with SMU in the opener to cover in a way-too-close 31-24 game, and North Texas went ballistic on a Houston Baptist team that gave Texas Tech a nightmare of a time.

The over on the 68 is the better play, but get ready for SMU to be a whole lot sharper than it was against the Bobcats with the passing game able to pull away late.

Over the last nine meetings between the two, North Texas is 5-4 +14 – with a few outright wins – but SMU won by 22 last year and should have the firepower to pull away late this time around.

Week 3 Schedule, Times, Lines, Previews

7. Duke at Notre Dame

LINE: Notre Dame -25.5
ATS PICK: Notre Dame
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

Let’s Try This Again, Part 1.

More like, You Owe Us For Last Week.

Notre Dame was sluggish against Duke – it didn’t cover the 20 in a 27-13 win – but the USF defense isn’t nearly as strong as what the Blue Devils brought, and the Irish offense should be a bit sharper.

And that’s one of the other themes/beliefs throughout all of this. In this weirdest of offseasons, it’s going to take a bit for some of these teams to get their legs and their timing. Expect Notre Dame to get both of those back against a USF team that will have to run to keep this close, and won’t.

6. Tulsa at Oklahoma State

LINE: Oklahoma State -23
ATS PICK: Oklahoma State
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

This is a pick assuming that Oklahoma State really is just that good this year.

Tulsa really does have the experience, the offensive pop, and the upside to make this a bit of a battle, but if Oklahoma State is okay from the start, it has the talent and firepower to be a real, live contender for the Big 12 Championship and potentially the CFP.

I’s a bit concerning that the Cowboys only won by 19 last year – and again, this Tulsa team is better –  but for what it’s worth, the OSU program blew past the 23 in the previous three games.

NEXT: Top 5 Picks Against The Spread, Week 3

3 Best College Football Point Total Predictions: Week 1

What three games appear to be the best bets and the best point total picks going into Week 1? Here you go. Enjoy.

What three games appear to be the best bets and the best point total picks going into Week 1? Here you go. Enjoy.


Week 1 Fearless Predictions, Game Previews 
CFN Fearless Predictions & Game Previews
Week 1 Expert Picks & Predictions
Week 1 Final Thoughts, Betting Advice
3 Best Predictions Against the Spread, Week 1

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Click on each game for the game preview and fearless prediction.

Usually this piece lists the ten best games, but without a lot to choose from this week, these are just the top three. The three point totals that appear to be a wee bit favorable are …

3. Arkansas State at Memphis

POINT TOTAL: 74
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

What’s your last memory of Memphis football? It was probably the wild 53-39 loss to Penn State in the Cotton Bowl.

Maybe, if you didn’t watch a whole lot of the Tigers, it was the Saturday night primetime 54-48 win over SMU.

This is another fantastic offensive team that should put up points in bunches, and that’s partly why the point total went up from 69.5 to 74.

That’s a whole lot of points.

Okay, so how many Memphis games last year against FBS teams got to 74?

Four of the 13. Just three Arkansas State games against FBS teams passed the mark.

These two should put on a show, and there’s nothing fun about going under on a primetime game, but 74 is just too big a number.

1993. That was the last time a Memphis opener against an FBS team got to 74, in a 45-35 win over Mississippi State.

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2. Middle Tennessee at Army

POINT TOTAL: 55
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

Both offenses have to get rolling to get to 55, and there simply might not be enough possessions.

The overall call is that Army will dominate the clock and time of possession. It’ll come up with points, but it’ll go on long, deliberate marches rather than hit the big home runs with its option attack.

This will likely be played more in the 40s than in the mid-to-upper 50s, but the point total hasn’t budged off the 55-point mark.

It’s a new year and these are new teams, but Army games last season only got going against the mediocre teams, and Middle Tennessee’s offense failed to get past 30 points in nine of the 11 games against FBS teams.

55 isn’t asking for a whole lot, but don’t expect either side to get to 30 points unless there’s a major breakdown.

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1. SMU at Texas State

POINT TOTAL: 69.5
PICK: Under
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

There are two big issues with the potential of going over here.

First, the Texas State offense is highly questionable. it has a lot of potential, and it’s got a fun style, but it also has to prove it can score.

The program managed to get past 30 points just two times last season, and it got past 17 in just seven of the 12 games, including a 47-17 loss that went well under the 69.5 total of this year’s battle.

The second part is the weather. Thunderstorms are expected in the greater San Marcos metropolitan are for Saturday afternoon, and while the rain shouldn’t keep the two passing games from having fun, it should slow the track down a little bit.

The point total has come down, going from 71.5 to the 69.5, but you should be okay even if SMU’s offense does most of the heavy lifting.

Also, give some thought to the under on the 36.5 first half total. Again, the weather has the potential be a factor, and that matters for the kicking game. Right at kickoff, there’s a 45% chance of rain – but like the under even if it’s nice and sunny.

By the way, the halftime score last year? SMU 13, Texas State 3.

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3 Best College Football Predictions Against The Spread: Week 1

What three college football games appear to be the best bets and the best picks against the spread going into Week 1? Here you go. Enjoy.

What three college football games appear to be the best bets and the best picks against the spread going into Week 1? Here you go. Enjoy.


Week 1 Fearless Predictions, Game Previews 
CFN Fearless Predictions & Game Previews
Week 1 Expert Picks & Predictions
Week 1 Final Thoughts, Betting Advice

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Click on each game for the game preview and fearless prediction.

Usually this piece lists the ten best games, and the pickings are slim this week, so these are just the top three. The three lines that appear to be a wee bit favorable are …

3. BYU at Navy

LINE: BYU -2
ATS PICK: Navy
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

It certainly helps that you’re getting points here on the Navy side.

Here’s the belief, and there’s more on this in a moment. Who’s going to be in better shape?

Southern Miss is still probably better than South Alabama, but the Golden Eagles were sucking wind early in the second half of the 32-21 upset loss. The Jaguars appeared to be far fresher, USM wasn’t remotely sharp, and it turned into a big early shocker.

No one’s saying BYU isn’t going to be in fine shape, but Navy should be better able to handle the full 60 minutes right out of the gate. Remember, this hasn’t been a normal offseason, the practices haven’t been quite like they usually are, and on top of all of that, good luck preparing for the option.

BYU hasn’t seen anything like this attack since facing Georgia Tech back in 2013. It won, and that’s seven years ago, but it’s not like dealing with the precision of a properly run option is easily simulated in practices.

It’s all a long-winded way of saying, the home team is getting points in a relatively even overall matchup. Take them.

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2. Houston Baptist at North Texas

LINE: North Texas -24.5
ATS PICK: North Texas
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

This was nice before at North Texas -27.5, and it went down from there.

Houston Baptist has a dangerous passing offense with the upside to keep pressing throughout. It’ll put up close to 300 yards through the air, it’ll connect on several big plays, and it’ll make this game enough fun that you should check it out to see all of the pyrotechnics.

But the Huskies aren’t going to play any defense.

Even since getting destroyed by Portland State 66-7 back in 2015, North Texas has been terrific against FCS programs, going 4-0 and averaging over 52 points per game. Coming off a rough 4-8 season with three straight ugly losses, watch out for the Mean Green offense to keep on pressing as it uses this as the tune-up game.

It might take a late score to get there, but you’re now giving away 24.5. It’s going to keep on pressing.

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1. Middle Tennessee at Army

LINE: Army -3.5
ATS PICK: Army
Bet on this, BetMGM latest line

Again with the service academies. Again with the likely fitter team to likely be sharper and stronger in Week 1.

Army has actually said it’s operating in a bubble – which is more like the locked down, disciplined world at West Point. In this crazy offseason, it was about as close to being business as usual as possible for the program.

Army might be giving away points while Navy is getting them against BYU, but there’s going to be one big difference between the two games – the time of possession.

Navy will control the clock against the Cougars, but Army might just have the ball for close to 40 minutes. Middle Tennessee operates with an up-tempo offense that can strike quickly, but its run defense is just okay.

Again, to hammer this into the ground, the old cliché of nothing gets a team into football shape like playing football, and the Blue Raider defense is going to be on the field for a long, long time.

If you like the historical nature of things, the last time Middle Tennessee won a season-opener against an FBS team was … 2006 against a FIU team that went winless. 2004 was the last time the program won a lid-lifter on the road.

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College Football Bowl Betting: Best Parlay Options

Previewing the college football bowl season betting odds and lines, with a look at the best three-team parlay for the holidays.

One of the best parts about bowl season in college football is all of the different betting options available. Below, we are looking at the best three-team parlay you can make for the next two weeks of bowl games.


Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM!


College Football Bowl Parlay Bets: Memphis vs. Penn State Moneyline

Photo Credit: Justin Ford – USA TODAY Sports

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday, Dec. 12 at 6:15 p.m. ET.

What: Cotton Bowl
When: Saturday, Dec. 28 at noon ET

For the first part of our bet, we are looking for an underdog to win or cover the spread to boost the total odds for our three-leg parlay. That is why I’m eying the Memphis Tigers (12-1) over the Penn State Nittany Lions (10-2) in the Cotton Bowl. Memphis is a 7.5-point underdog despite winning 12 games this season. Memphis has one of the best offenses in college football, averaging 40.5 points per game (PPG) this season to rank eighth in the nation. Memphis will certainly be challenged by a Penn State defense, which allowed just 14.1 PPG to rank seventh overall.

However, I like MEMPHIS (+200) on the moneyline – to win outright as it has proven to be one of the best teams in the country. If the moneyline makes you nervous, consider swapping out this pick with Memphis to cover the 7.5 point spread at -134 instead.

College Football Bowl Parlay Bets: LSU vs. Oklahoma Over/Under

Photo Credit: Matthew Emmons – USA TODAY Sports

What: Peach Bowl
When: Saturday, Dec. 28 at 4 p.m. ET

The Over/Under for LSU-Oklahoma is set at a monstrous 76 points. While both offenses can score 40 or more with ease, these playoff games tend to start off slow, given the amount of time off for the two teams. Don’t be shocked if both use the first quarter or so to “feel” each other out before picking up the tempo on offense.

It’s also worth noting that the Under hit in four of the last five games involving the Sooners. They have proven they are at least somewhat capable of defense this season. Oklahoma should be able to get at least a few stops early in this contest.

While it’s fair to expect a ton of points, bet the UNDER 76 (-110) to hit in the Peach Bowl.

College Football Bowl Parlay Bet: Michigan vs. Alabama Point Spread

Photo Credit: John David Mercer – USA TODAY Sports

What: Citrus Bowl
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 1 p.m. ET

One of the biggest non-playoff bowl games will happen on New Year’s Day as Jim Harbaugh’s Michigan Wolverines (9-3) will take on Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide (10-2). While Alabama will be without their star quarterback in Tua Tagovailoa, it is still one of the best teams in college football, especially on offense.

That is why ALABAMA (-6.5, -118) is nearly a touchdown favorite here. In the Iron Bowl, Alabama was still able to put up 45 points against the Auburn Tigers without Tagovailoa on the field. The Tide should have no problem covering the spread against a Wolverines team that allowed 56 points to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Expect Alabama to win and cover in this Big Ten-SEC contest.

Altogether, this three-team parlay – with the Memphis ML – will payout at +958 odds. A $10 bet would return a profit of $95.80 if all three hit. It’s a decent-sized payout given the relatively safe bets.

Note: Swapping the Memphis spread in place of the ML lowers the payout to +516.

Get some action on this game or others, place a bet with BetMGM today. And for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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College Football Bowl Betting odds, picks and best bets: Easy 5-play holiday parlay

Previewing the college football bowl season betting odds and lines, with a look at an easy five-play parlay for the holidays.

Itching to make a big parlay bet during the 2019-2020 college football bowl season?  Below is our five-play parlay to keep you interested in college football during the holidays.


Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM!


Bet 1: Air Force (-2.5, -115) vs. Washington State

Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing – USA TODAY Sports

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday, Dec. 20 at 12 p.m. ET.

When: Friday, Dec. 27 at 10:15 p.m. ET

One of the most intriguing matchups during the bowl season will feature one of the nation’s best rushing attacks in Air Force against the best passing offense in football in Washington State. Air Force won 10 games this season, and finished the year with seven straight wins. Look for the Falcons to have a ton of success on the ground against a suspect Cougars defense.

Bet 2: Ohio State (+105) vs. Clemson 

Photo Credit: Brian Spurlock – USA TODAY Sports

When: Saturday, Dec. 28 at 8 p.m. ET

Our second bet features the No. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes against the defending champion Clemson Tigers. Ohio State is one of the most balanced teams in the country with stars on both sides of the ball. While both teams are pretty equal, there is more value on the Ohio State moneyline. It’s a strong play at plus-money.

Bet 3: Auburn (-278) vs. Minnesota

Photo Credit: John David Mercer – USA TODAY Sports

When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 1 p.m. ET

Auburn has proven to be one of the best teams in the country, defeating Alabama and Oregon during the 2019 season. Three combined losses to LSU, Florida and Georgia by 21 points have knocked the Tigers down to No. 12 in the College Football rankings. They are touchdown favorites over Minnesota and expect them to win fairly easily over the Golden Gophers.

Bet 4: Oregon (+115) vs. Wisconsin

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee – USA TODAY Sports

When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 5 p.m. ET

The Rose Bowl will feature one of the best matchups this bowl season as the No. 6 ranked Oregon Ducks will face the No. 8 Wisconsin Badgers. While Wisconsin is favored, Oregon appears to be the better team on paper with a top-ranked defense and a potential top-10 pick at quarterback. Considering the value here, grab the Oregon moneyline for the outright win over Wisconsin.

Bet 5: Georgia (-7.5, +115) vs. Baylor 

Photo Credit: Brett Davis – USA TODAY Sports

When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 8:45 p.m. ET

Baylor has been one of the biggest surprises of the college football season, but it will be facing a significantly more talented Georgia team in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia has covered the spread in four of its last six games and expect the ‘Dogs to do the same in this contest. They just have too much team speed, and that could overwhelm Baylor.

Total Parlay Payout: +2310

Overall, this is a pretty easy bet to back considering there are no major upsets needed in order for it to hit. At better than 23-1 odds, this is a bet that will have you on the edge of your seat throughout bowl season.

Get some action on this game or others, place a bet with BetMGM today. And for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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College Football Betting Guide: 5 Best Big Game Bets – December 20, 21 Bowl Games

Breaking down the five best big college football games for Friday, Dec. 20; including college football picks, betting odds and more.

What’s going to happen in the five five of the biggest early games as the bowl season gets started?

Contact/Follow @PeteFiutak

If you’re looking to get in on the sports betting action this weekend, be sure to sign up with BetMGM to take part in any of these games or other action on the schedule.

5. Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl: Buffalo vs. Charlotte

Photo Credit: Matthew O’Haren – USA TODAY Sports

BetMGM Line: Buffalo -6.5, o/u: 51.5

Why You Should Bet On Buffalo: The Bulls have the right formula. They have the MAC’s best defense to go along with the running of 1,626-yard back Jaret Patterson. Overall, UB has the lines to take over the game right away. The O line is great for Patterson and the ground attack, and the defensive front lives behind the line. However …

Why You Should Bet On Charlotte: The 49ers have the players on the lines to be solid, too. Alex Highsmith is the best defensive end you’ve probably never seen, and he’ll be disruptive against the UB attack. As long as the defense is coming up with third down stops, this will stay close.

Prediction: Both programs are going for their first bowl win – UB has never won one, and Charlotte has never been in one. After a few notable late-season collapses over the last few seasons, the Bulls take care of Charlotte by more than a touchdown.
CFN Full Bahamas Bowl Game Preview & Prediction

4. Tropical Smoothie Cafe Frisco Bowl: Utah State vs. Kent State

Photo Credit: Derick E. Hingle – USA TODAY Sports

BetMGM LineUtah State -6.5, o/u: 67.5

Why You Should Bet On Utah State: It’s the final game in the Utah State career of QB Jordan Love, who’s had a mediocre year, but has the talent to be a good mid-round NFL Draft pick. He’s leaving early, and now he gets to roll against a Kent State defense that can give up big plays in chunks. USU will own third downs.

Why You Should Bet On Kent State: There’s a running game now. It wasn’t always there this season, but the Golden Flashes are finding ways to move the ball on the ground, and it made all the difference late. Kent State is 4-1 when running for 200 yards or more, and Utah State’s defensive front isn’t a brick wall.

Prediction: It’s been a great season for Kent State under rising-star head coach Sean Lewis, but Utah State is going to come out rolling. Love will have a strong final game as the Aggies win by more than a touchdown.
CFN Full Utah State vs. Kent State Game Preview & Prediction


Looking to place a bet on this game or others? Get some action in the game at BetMGM. Sign up and bet at BetMGM now!


3. R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: Appalachian State vs. UAB

Photo Credit: Jeremy Brevard – USA TODAY Sports

BetMGM LineAppalachian State -16.5, o/u: 48

Why You Should Bet On Appalachian State: UAB might be a wonderful story, but it built up its win total over the last few years with a whole lot of wins over a whole lot of miserable teams. The offense can hit a brick wall at times against the better defenses. That’s Appalachian State.

Why You Should Bet On UAB: The receiving corps is loaded with big-time playmakers who can get back in the game or take over early on. Austin Watkins and Kendall Parham crank out yards in bunches, and they should be able to come up with a few late scores to at least make the game interesting, if the Blazers aren’t winning outright.

Prediction: The coaching change at Appalachian State doesn’t matter. Shawn Clark makes the transition seamless, the offense will be razor-sharp, and bad things happen when UAB plays a good team. It’s a big number, but ASU covers. 
CFN Full New Orleans Bowl Game Preview & Prediction

2. Cheribundi Boca Raton Bowl: SMU vs. Florida Atlantic

Photo Credit: Ray Carlin – USA TODAY Sports

BetMGM Line: SMU -3, o/u: 69.5

Why You Should Bet On SMU: There’s no Lane Kiffin around anymore – he’s off coaching Ole Miss – and Willie Taggart isn’t stepping in just yet. Just how much will the coaching change – defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer will coach in the interim – matter? QB Shane Buechele and the passing game will put the pressure on the FAU secondary from the start.

Why You Should Bet On Florida Atlantic: Takeaways, takeaways, takeaways. The Owl D loves to come up with turnovers, and it’ll make up for a few mistakes of its own with a slew of big plays. The defense leads the nation in takeaways with 31, and it should be able to keep the game alive with a few interceptions.

Prediction: SMU is too talented and too explosive. FAU is good, but the SMU offense will do enough to roll past the spread in a slightly lower-scoring game than the total. 
CFN Full Boca Raton Game Preview & Prediction

1. Mitsubishi Motors Las Vegas Bowl: Boise State vs. Washington

Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy – USA TODAY Sports

BetMGM LineWashington -3.5, o/u: 49.5

Why You Should Bet On Boise State: The Broncos pass rush is about to give Jacob Eason a whole slew of problems. It comes from all angles, and it’s good enough to keep an occasionally stagnant UW O from going anywhere. The Huskies are mediocre on third downs, and the Broncos should be able to keep that going.

Why You Should Bet On Washington: Do you really think Washington is going to send Chris Petersen out a loser? It’s the Coach Pete bowl as he’s coaching against his old program, and he’s got the lines to take over the game and hold up. With time to rest up, this UW D is going to be the real deal – Boise State hasn’t dealt with a defense this good  – especially against the run.

Prediction: Washington will get a big game out of its defense, the offensive front will hold up, and the attack will be just balanced enough to get by. The Huskies will get past the spread and the two teams will roll by the Over on the total.
CFN Full Las Vegas Bowl Game Preview & Prediction

Now that you know what you need to know, head over to BetMGM and get some action in any — or all — of these games for college football bowl season.

For more coverage on the College Football slate of sports betting action, be sure to check out CollegeFootballNews.com. And for more sports betting tips and picks, be sure to access SportsbookWire.com.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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College Football Betting Guide: 5 Best Big Game Bets – Championship Week

Breaking down the five best big college football games for Championship Week; including college football picks, betting odds and more.

What’s going to happen in the five biggest games during Championship Week?

Contact/Follow @PeteFiutak

If you’re looking to get in on the sports betting action this weekend, be sure to sign up with BetMGM to take part in any of these games or other action on the schedule.

5. Pac-12 Championship: Oregon vs. Utah

BetMGM LineUtah -6.5, o/u: 46

Why You Should Bet On Oregon: It has more talent on both sides of the ball. Utah – as good as it has been – has yet to beat a team ranked in the College Football Playoff top 25, beating up on a whole slew of mediocre teams and struggling over the second half of the season against the one team – Washington – at its level. The Utes played the 92nd-best schedule in college football, and now they have to deal with Justin Herbert and the best offense they’ve faced so far.

Why You Should Bet On Utah: The weather isn’t going to be pretty. It’s supposed to be cold, rainy, and it should fit what Utah likes to do a little bit better. The defensive front is the real deal, and the offensive line has the ability to pound away better than Oregon can. This has to be the Zack Moss game – the ground attack needs to take over.

Prediction: The weather and Oregon’s talent will keep this close, but Utah is fighting for a playoff spot and will do what it can to pile on if there’s a chance. As long as the line stays at 6.5, expect the Utes to win this, cover, and then hope the CFP will give them a break for the fourth spot.
CFN Full Oregon vs. Utah Game Preview & Prediction

4. ACC Championship: Virginia vs. Clemson

BetMGM Line: Clemson -28.5, o/u: 57

Why You Should Bet On Virginia: There’s enough of a pass rush to knock Trevor Lawrence off of his rhythm just a bit. Virginia is second in the ACC in sacks helped by six against Virginia Tech last week, and now it’s going to throw everything at the Tigers backfield. Add in QB Bryce Perkins and his ability to control games, and the Cavaliers should be able to do enough on third downs to stay in this.

Why You Should Bet On Clemson: Lawrence has been awesome. After a rough start, he has thrown 16 touchdown passes with no interceptions while averaging close to 12 yards per throw over his last five games. He’ll keep bombing away for a team that wants to continue to make a statement – Dabo Swinney is serious; he wants the College Football Playoff committee to love this team.

Prediction: Clemson will get out fast and put this away with an impressive performance, but Virginia will come up with just enough points in the fourth quarter – Perkins and the O will keep on trying – to barely cover the 28.5.

CFN Full Clemson vs. Virginia Game Preview & Prediction


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3. Big 12 Championship: Baylor vs. Oklahoma 

BetMGM Line: Oklahoma -9, o/u: 64.5

Why You Should Bet On Baylor: Turnover margin. Baylor doesn’t have the firepower to keep up in any sort of a shootout, but it’s efficient enough offensively to stay in the game. The defense has to continue to do what it does and make big plays. Oklahoma is minus-8 in turnover margin in its last eight games, and Baylor’s D has generated two takeaways or more in eight of the last nine games.

Why You Should Bet On Oklahoma: There’s a defense here, too. QB Jalen Hurts might be the star of the show with an offense leading the nation in yards per play, but it’s the D making the biggest difference. The Sooners lead the Big 12 in total defense with the big key being third-down stops – there are lots of them this season. Baylor struggles in pass protection, and OU should be able to get to QB Charlie Brewer just enough to be a problem.

Prediction: It’s Oklahoma in a Big 12 Championship – it’ll win. However, Baylor will get just enough takeaways and control the clock just enough to cover the nine points and make this a fight.
CFN Full Baylor vs. Oklahoma Game Preview & Prediction

2. Big Ten Championship: Wisconsin vs. Ohio State

BetMGM Line: Ohio State -16, o/u: 56.5

Why You Should Bet On Wisconsin: The Badgers might have been whacked around in the first meeting, but the defense got into the backfield and knocked around QB Justin Fields a bit. The UW lines got manhandled and shoved around – that never happens to this team. They’re going to blast away for RB Jonathan Taylor, who was held to just 52 yards by the Buckeyes – the line he’s working behind is playing better. But …

Why You Should Bet On Ohio State: The Buckeyes’ lines really are dominating. The O line blasted a Michigan run defense that came into last week’s game on a roll, and Chase Young and the defensive front isn’t going to slow down. OSU needs this game for the No. 1 seed, and it’s going to try making a statement. It starts with a D topping in the nation in total defense, and second in pass defense, sacks and tackles for loss.

Prediction: Wisconsin keeps this close for a half, and then the Buckeyes turn it on. This won’t be a total wipeout, but Ohio State will get the passing game going to pull away and win by more than the 16.
CFN Full Wisconsin vs. Ohio State Game Preview & Prediction

1. SEC Championship: Georgia vs. LSU

BetMGM Line: LSU -7, o/u: 54.5

Why You Should Bet On Georgia: The Georgia lines are good enough to keep this from getting out of hand – Bulldogs games don’t become shootouts. This isn’t a sexy team offensively, but QB Jake Fromm hasn’t thrown an interception outside of the three given away against South Carolina. The defense takes care of the rest – the Gamecocks were the only team to score more than 17.

Why You Should Bet On LSU: Get up quickly, and it might be over. All QB Joe Burrow has to do is score early and all should be fine – Georgia doesn’t have the firepower to keep up. RB D’Andre Swift has a shoulder injury to play through, WR Lawrence Cager is done for the year with an ankle injury, and WR George Pickens is suspended for the first half. This isn’t an O that can keep up in a firefight.

Prediction: Georgia’s defense will be just good enough to keep this from getting out of hand, but Burrow wins the SEC Championship – and the Heisman – with two big scoring plays in the second half to finally get a little breathing room as LSU wins and covers the seven.
CFN Full LSU vs. Georgia Game Preview & Prediction

Now that you know what you need to know, head over to BetMGM and get some action in any — or all — of these games for Championship Week of college football.

For more coverage on the College Football slate of sports betting action, be sure to check out CollegeFootballNews.com. And for more sports betting tips and picks, be sure to access SportsbookWire.com.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Georgia at LSU odds, picks and best bets: Tigers favored in SEC title game

Previewing Saturday’s Georgia Bulldogs at LSU Tigers matchup, with NCAA football betting odds, picks and best bets for the SEC Championship.

The LSU Tigers (12-0) will try to keep their perfect season alive in Saturday’s SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. They’re taking on the Georgia Bulldogs (11-1), who hope to remain in the College Football Playoff. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET. We analyze the Georgia-LSU odds and betting lines, while providing college football betting tips and advice on this matchup.

Georgia at LSU: Three things you need to know

1. Georgia RB D’Andre Swift (shoulder) is probable to play Saturday with head coach Kirby Smart indicating the injury isn’t overly serious. WR Lawrence Cager is out for this one after undergoing surgery on his ankle last week.

2. LSU and Georgia have split their last 10 games against each other. LSU is 6-3-1 against the spread in those 10 games, though it has been outscored by an average of 28 points to 26.

3. The Tigers have the nation’s second-ranked offense, but it’ll be going up against the No. 2 defense in the country. Georgia allows just 10.4 points per game.


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Georgia at LSU: Odds, betting lines and picks

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 6 p.m. ET.

Prediction

LSU 30, Georgia 27

Moneyline (ML)

LSU is 8-0 in its last eight games against the SEC. The Tigers won their only neutral-site game this season, while Georgia has won both of its games on neutral sites. The Tigers still come in as the better team with their 12-game winning streak.

Bet the TIGERS (-270) to win straight up Saturday in Atlanta, even if it is somewhat of a home game for Georgia.

New to sports betting? A $10 wager on LSU to win outright returns a profit of $3.70.

Against the Spread (ATS)

The Tigers have gone 4-1 ATS in their last five neutral-site games, but Georgia is 5-0 ATS in its last five games as an underdog. The spread is 7.5 points in favor of LSU, which is a fairly large number for this matchup.

The Bulldogs should be able to keep it close, covering the spread in four of their last five games this year. Bet GEORGIA (+7.5, -120) to cover.

Over/Under (O/U)

The Over/Under is 54.5 points. The Tigers rank second in the nation in scoring, but this Georgia defense is no joke. The Bulldogs haven’t faced an offense like LSU’s, though, and will be tested.

The Over has hit in three of LSU’s last four games and 10 of its last 14 games played on Saturday. Bet the OVER 54.5 (-106), thanks to LSU’s explosive, pass-happy offense.

Get some action on this game or others, place a bet with BetMGM today. And for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @camdasilva and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Oregon State at Oregon odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Oregon State Beavers at Oregon Ducks sports betting odds and lines, with college football betting picks and tips.

The Oregon State Beavers (5-6) take on the Oregon Ducks (9-2) in a Pac-12 matchup Saturday of Week 14 with a 4 p.m. ET kickoff. Below, we analyze the Oregon State-Oregon odds and betting lines, while providing college football betting tips and advice on this matchup.

Oregon State vs. Oregon: Three things you need to know

1. Oregon State has lost 10 of its last 11 games against Oregon.

2. Oregon State has covered in five straight games on the road.

3. The Over has hit in four of the last five games.


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Oregon State vs. Oregon: Odds, betting lines and picks

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:20 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Oregon 49, Oregon State 21

Moneyline (ML)

Oregon (-1000) opens this contest as a monster home favorite against its in-state rival Oregon State (+565). The Beavers just haven’t had much luck against the Ducks, losing in 10 of the last 11 meetings. While Oregon should win this game handily, there just isn’t any value in the moneyline.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on Oregon to win outright returns a profit of $1.

Against the Spread (ATS)

OREGON (-19.5, -110) is a three-score favorite over Oregon State in this Pac-12 contest. Early in the season, bettors had a rough time figuring out the Ducks, but they have fared much better in the last six weeks, covering in four contests. Oregon State has been great against the spread, as well, covering in eight of their previous 10 contests. Expect this point spread to be close, but for Oregon to cover late in this game.

Over/Under (O/U)

The total is set at 65.5, which feels a bit high, although, both offenses have been good this season, averaging over 33 points per game. With Oregon having a potential first-round pick at quarterback in Justin Herbert, the Ducks should be able to put up a ton of points against Oregon State’s 109th-ranked scoring defense. Look for this to be a high-scoring game in which the OVER (-110) hits late in the fourth quarter.

Get some action on this game or others, place a bet with BetMGM today. And for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Marcus_Mosher and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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