Cal Golden Bears betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Cal vs. San Diego State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal vs. San Diego State odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (7-4) and the No. 23 San Diego State Aztecs (7-2) meet Saturday at SAP Center in San Jose. Tip-off is set for 10:30 p.m. ET (ACC Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Cal vs. San Diego State odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Cal halted a 3-game losing streak last time out with an 84-66 win over Northwestern State last Saturday, cashing as a 16-point favorite as the Over (144.5) cashed. The Golden Bears are just 3-4 against the spread (ATS) in the past 7 games, while the Over has cashed in 4 in a row, while going 6-1 in the past 7 outings in the span.

San Diego State took care of Cal Baptist last time out Dec. 11 by an 81-75 score, but it didn’t cover as 13.5-point favorites. The Aztecs have failed to cover the past 2 outings, while going 3-5 ATS in 8 games with a spread this season. The Over is on a 4-1 run in the previous 5 outings.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal vs. San Diego State odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 11:05 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | San Diego State -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cal +5.5 (-115) | San Diego State -5.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 144.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal vs. San Diego State picks and predictions

Prediction

San Diego State 83, Cal 71

Moneyline

San Diego State (-225) will set you back more than 2 times your potential return, and that’s way too expensive for a standalone wager. However, if you were to put the Aztecs into a multi-leg parlay, it would be perfectly acceptable to include San Diego State.

PASS.

Against the spread

SAN DIEGO STATE -5.5 (-105) is a solid play, as it should get the job done by at least 3 buckets in this neutral-site battle in the Bay Area.

Cal +5.5 (-115) has really struggled lately, losing 3 of the past 4 games outright. That includes home losses to Cornell and Stanford as a favorite.

Back San Diego State, as it has the much better body of work.

Over/Under

OVER 144.5 (-105) is a solid bet in this intra-state battle in San Jose.

The Over has hit in 4 in a row for Cal, while going 6-1 in the previous 7 outings. Cal has scored at least 78 points in 7 consecutive contests.

For San Diego State, the total has cashed in 4 of the past 5 outings, while going for 73 or more points on offense in each of the previous 4 games.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:
Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Duke / Florida / Florida State / Georgia / Iowa / Kentucky / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / UCLA / USC / Washington / Wisconsin / Recruiting / Transfer portal / College Football Playoffs / College Sports Wire / High School

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

LA Bowl: Cal vs. UNLV odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Cal vs. UNLV odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

Wednesday’s LA Bowl in Inglewood, Calif., features the Cal Golden Bears (6-6) and UNLV Rebels (10-3). The opening kickoff at SoFi Stadium will be at 9 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Cal vs. UNLV odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Cal clocked a midseason, 4-game losing streak (Sept. 21-Oct. 19), but the Golden Bears have rallied to go 3-2 since. They last played Nov. 30, losing at SMU 38-6. The Bears, who were 12½-point underdogs in that one, enter this bowl game on a 3-game losing streak against the spread (ATS).

UNLV, which is No. 24 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, is looking to win an 11th game for just the second time in its history and the first since 1984. The Rebels were the Mountain West Conference regular-season runner-up, and the squad last played Dec. 6 when, as a 4-point underdog, it was felled by Boise State in the MWC title game, 21-7. The Rebels are 2-4 ATS in their last half-dozen games.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal vs. UNLV odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated Tuesday at 8:58 a.m. ET.

Moneyline: Cal -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | UNLV -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cal -1 (-105) | UNLV +1 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 47.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal vs. UNLV picks and predictions

Prediction

UNLV 31, Cal 24

Moneyline

UNLV coach Barry Odom has moved on (taking the Purdue job), but for the most part Cal is the more affected roster when it comes to transfer-portal lineup changes. That includes Bears starting QB Fernando Mendoza entering the portal. Cal, which may also be without backup QB Chandler Rogers after he was injured in the regular-season finale, may well flip the script and be forced into being a run-first team. That’s not something the Bears have much experience with. Because UNLV is excellent in keeping offenses off schedule, the potential is there for a very slow start for Cal.

The Rebels also rank highly in causing havoc plays. So, that matchup is a big green checkmark in the UNLV column.

Nevada-Las Vegas has run for 200-plus yards in each of its last 5 games. The Rebels racked up over 5 yards per carry in 4 of those contests. They are a solid outright play in this one.

TAKE UNLV (-110).

Against the spread

No interest; PASS.

Over/Under

Expecting some turnover-fueled, short-field chances in this one. Mix in Cal usually playing at a brisk pace on offense and a good weather report, and the OVER 47.5 (-115) is the lean for this one.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Cal at SMU odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal at SMU odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (6-5, 2-5 ACC) and No. 9 SMU Mustangs (10-1, 7-0) meet Saturday. Kickoff from Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Cal vs. SMU odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Cal picked up a 24-21 win over rival Stanford in the Big Game Nov. 23 in Berkeley, but it came nowhere near covering as a 14.5-point favorite while the Under (53.5) cashed. Cal has won 3 of the past 4 games to attain bowl eligibility, but it has failed to cover in consecutive outings for the first time this season. The Under is 1-0-1 in the past 2 games after a 3-0 run to the Over.

SMU posted a 33-7 win at Virginia as an 11-point favorite Saturday while the Under (54.5) cashed. The Mustangs have won 8 in a row, while going 6-2 against the spread (ATS). The Over is 3-1 in the past 4 games, while going 6-2 in the previous 8 outings.

Rankings – US LBM Coaches Poll: Conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal at SMU odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 8:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +400 (bet $100 to win $400) | SMU -550 (bet $550 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cal +13.5 (-110) | SMU -13.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 55.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal at SMU picks and predictions

Prediction

SMU 32, Cal 22

Moneyline

SMU (-550) will cost you 5½ times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward. Even as part of a multi-team parlay, that’s not a recommended play.

SMU can secure a spot in the College Football Playoff with a win in this game and a victory in the ACC Championship Game, but it cannot take its foot off the gas.

PASS.

Against the spread

Play CAL +13.5 (-110) catching nearly 2 TDs in the Metroplex as it closes out its first season of ACC play.

The Golden Bears have been exciting on offense lately, going for 23 or more points in 5 straight games, while the defense has allowed 21 or more points in 3 in a row.

Cal will need that offense to be on point, as SMU -13.5 (-110) has been good for 28 or more points in 8 consecutive outings.

Over/Under

OVER 55.5 (-105) might be the best play on the board.

The Mustangs have cashed high in 3 of the past 4 outings and 6 of the previous 8 contests. They roll up 444.3 total yards per game, and 39.3 points per game, with a balanced attack led by dual-threat QB Kevin Jennings.

The Golden Bears have hit the Over at a 3-1-1 clip in the past 5 outings, and they have the offense to at least keep the Mustangs somewhat close in a high-scoring affair.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Stanford at Cal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Stanford at Cal odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Stanford Cardinal (3-7. 2-5 ACC) and Cal Golden Bears (5-5, 1-5) meet Saturday. Kickoff from California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (ACC Network). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Stanford vs. Cal odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Cardinal no longer have a shot at a bowl game, but they’re not giving up. Stanford kept fighting last week, however, stunning Louisville in Palo Alto 38-35 as a 21-point underdog as the Over (57.5) cashed. That halted a 6-game losing streak.

The Golden Bears were tripped up 33-25 by Syracuse last weekend as a 10-point favorite, halting a modest 2-game win and cover streak. Cal is just 2-5 SU in the past 7 outings, but it is 4-2 ATS in the past 6 outings. It needs a victory over rival Stanford or at first-place SMU in the next 2 weeks to qualify for a bowl.

Cal has won 3 straight meetings in ‘The Big Game’ against Stanford. This is the 127th meeting in the series, with the Cardinal leading the all-time series 60-47-10. However, Cal won the last meeting at home, 27-20, Nov. 19, 2022, while posting a 27-15 win at Stanford last season, too.

Rankings – US LBM Coaches Poll: Conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Stanford at Cal odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 10:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Stanford +480 (bet $100 to win $480) | Cal -670 (bet $670 to win $100)
Against the spread: Stanford +14.5 (-110) | Cal -14.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 53.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Stanford at Cal picks and predictions

Prediction

Cal 34, Stanford 20

Moneyline

Cal (-670) will set you back nearly 7 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not enough reward. Even as part of a multi-leg parlay it makes no sense including the Golden Bears, as they would suck all of the value out of your ticket.

PASS.

Against the spread

Back STANFORD +14.5 (-110) in this rivalry game, and hope it can carry over momentum from last weekend’s impressive showing against Louisville.

The Cardinal offense has come together in recent weeks. While in this day and age of the transfer portal, NIL money, etc., it might not mean as much at some schools, Stanford is building the framework for 2025 with this group, as it isn’t likely to be involved in the portal, NIL, etc. as much. This team is improving, playing hard, and it would love to spoil the season of rival Cal -14.5 (-110).

It’s likely Cal ends up getting it done, but The Tree is going to make it sweat in Berkeley.

Over/Under

OVER 53.5 (-110) is the lean in The Big Game, but go super lightly.

The Over is 3-0-1 in the past 4 games for Cal, while the Over has hit in the past 2 outings for Stanford.

The series trends are all over in this series, going 4-4 in the past 8 meetings, while cashing at a 2-2 pace in the past 4 battles in Berkeley, too.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Cal at USC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Cal at USC odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (2-1) take on the USC Trojans (3-0) Sunday evening. Tip-off from the Galen Center is set for 9:30 p.m. ET (Big Ten Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Cal vs. USC odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Cal stepped into a bear trap in an 85-69 defeat at the Vanderbilt Commodores Wednesday. They failed to cover as 7.5-point dogs in the affair. G Andrej Stojakovic had 17 points and 6 boards. If that name looks familiar, that’s because he’s the son of Sacramento Kings legend Peja Stojakovic.

USC was pushed to its limits in its last 2 games. They failed to cover as 24-point and 16-point favorites in home wins over the Idaho State Bengals (75-69) and UT-Arlington Mavericks (98-95). G Desmond Claude had 26 points, 8 assists and 5 boards Wednesday against UTA.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal at USC odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds Lines last updated at 12:36 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +280 (bet $100 to win $280) | USC -375 (bet $375 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Cal +8.5 (-110) | USC -8.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 152.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal at USC picks and predictions

Prediction

USC 85, Cal 81

Moneyline

The way that USC has played down to its opponents, I would be scared to risk -150 on them. So -375 is not even a question. I look for Stojakovic to put on a show in SoCal. He hasn’t shot for a great percentage from beyond the arc, but he has 2 triples in each of the last 2 games. To offer up plus-money for him to do it here feels really in the wheelhouse. He’s a 6-foot-7 sophomore with the pedigree from downtown. This could be the spot he introduces himself.

Take ANDREJ STOJAKOVIC OVER 1.5 THREE-POINTERS (+110).

Against the spread

It’s a little off-putting that they couldn’t hang with Vandy, but I read more into USC unable to put lesser teams away. This 8.5-point cushion is more than enough. Cal won the last meeting 83-77 in OT last February.

Take CAL +8.5 (-110).

Over/Under

Both teams are 2-1 O/U. USC allowed UT-Arlington to shoot 16-for-24 (66%) from downtown in its last game. And that supports my Stojakovic take and tells you all you need to know about this OVER 152.5 (-115) hitting.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

Want to play some games of your own? Play for free at the best social casinos and enjoy lots of slots, blackjack, video poker, roulette and more. You can even earn real prizes!

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Cal at Pitt odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal at Pitt odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (3-2, 0-2 ACC) meet the 24th-ranked Pitt Panthers (4-1, 1-1) Saturday at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Kickoff in the ACC game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Cal vs. Pitt odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Golden Bears are coming off an excruciatingly painful loss to 6th-ranked Miami last week. Cal was up 35-10, but Miami rallied for the 39-38 win. There was controversy, as QB Fernando Mendoza appeared to be hit in the helmet late in the game, but no targeting was called. A 1st down on that penalty would have helped Cal salt the game away for a 38-32 win.

Mendoza was sharp with 285 passing yards, 2 TDs and 1 INT, while star RB Jaydn Ott struggled with 7 rushes for 2 yards and a score, but he did have 3 receptions for 75 yards and another TD.

The Panthers are a surprising 5-0 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) through 5 outings. Pitt is coming off a 34-24 road win over North Carolina as a 2.5-point favorite as the Under (62.5) cashed. The Over is 3-0 in 3 home games, and the Under is 2-0 in 2 road contests.

Cal is 1-1 SU/ATS in 2 road contests, while cashing the Under in both of its forays onto the road.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal at Pitt odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated Friday at 12:42 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Pitt -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cal +3 (-105) | Pitt -3 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 58.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal at Pitt picks and predictions

Prediction

Pitt 31, Cal 26

Moneyline

PITT (-155) isn’t a bad play as a moderate favorite if you’re really conservative, and just want to pick a winner straight up.

Personally, it’s not my favorite play, as laying 3 or fewer points isn’t a big deal. Unless you’re convinced Pitt will win, but only by 1 or 2 points, just look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

PITT -3 (-115) is a much more economical play laying the little bit of points. Pitt is 5-0 ATS, so there isn’t much reason not to like it.

Cal +3 (-105) is coming off a horrendous collapse, and the disappointment of not getting what appeared to be a clear targeting call. Now, it must travel cross-country to face an unbeaten team. The last time it flew east of the Mississippi, it had a lackluster 14-9 loss to Florida State, which is still the only game the Seminoles have won to date.

Over/Under

UNDER 58.5 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

Last week the Golden Bears were involved in a shootout, but that’s a bit of an anomaly. Cal cashed Under in the 1st 4 games, allowing 14 or fewer points in each of those contests.

For Pitt, the Over is 3-0 in 3 home games, but 2 of those games are against FCS Youngstown State and a terrible winless Kent State team. The Panthers won’t have nearly the same kind of offensive success against a sturdy Golden Bears D.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Miami at Cal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Miami at Cal odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The 8th-ranked Miami Hurricanes (5-0, 1-0 ACC) visit the California Golden Bears (3-1, 0-1) Saturday in an ACC matchup at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Miami vs. California odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Hurricanes survived last Friday against Virginia Tech, winning 38-34. On a Hail Mary with zeroes on the clock, the Hokies appeared to have a game-winning TD. That was the call on the field, but after a lengthy review, the play was overturned, giving Miami the win.

While the initial call on the field appeared to be incorrect, there also didn’t appear to be enough evidence on the replay to overturn the call on the field. It was controversial in that respect, and a reason why the system doesn’t always work properly.

Miami has scored 38 or more points in all 5 games, with the Over going 4-0-1 this season. The Canes are also 2-0 against the spread (ATS) in 2 true road games, with the Over 1-0-1 in those outings.

Cal started off 3-0 SU, including a 21-14 road win at Auburn on Sept. 7 as an 11.5-point underdog. However, it lost its conference opener at Florida State on Sept. 21 by a 14-9 score, failing to cover as a 2.5-point underdog as the Under (44.5) cashed.

The Golden Bears are 2-2 ATS on the season, with the Under going 4-0.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Miami at Cal odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 11:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Miami -400 (bet $400 to win $100) | Cal +325 (bet $100 to win $325)
Against the spread: Miami -10.5 (-110) | Cal +10.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 53.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Miami at Cal picks and predictions

Prediction

Miami 34, Cal 17

Moneyline

Miami (-400) will cost you 4 times your potential return, and that’s just a little too much risk for not nearly enough reward. As far as a multi-leg parlay is concerned, tossing The U into a ticket with 6 or 7 teams can be excused, but no few than that.

PASS.

Against the spread

MIAMI -10.5 (-110) faces a tough cross-country trip against California +10.5 (-110), a team which has played a pretty good brand of defense this season.

The Golden Bears will have their work cut out trying to shut down Heisman hopeful QB Cam Ward and the Canes high-octane offense, however.

Cal has allowed just 287.5 total yards, 182.3 passing yards and 105.3 rushing yards per game, and the 12.8 PPG allowed ranks 12th in the nation. But, Miami isn’t UC Davis, Auburn, San Diego State or FSU. The Canes are a high-octane unit capable of scoring close to as much as the 4 teams have combined (51) against Cal.

Over/Under

UNDER 53.5 (-110) is the lean in this ACC battle near the Pacific, but go with a half-unit play at most.

Miami will certainly do its part, but the concern is Cal’s offense, which could muster just 9 points against lowly Florida State.

The Under is 4-0 in 4 games for the Golden Bears, and that makes the low attractive.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Cal at Florida State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal at Florida State odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (3-0, 0-0 ACC) travel to meet the Florida State Seminoles (0-3, 0-2) Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee for an ACC battle. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Cal vs. Florida State odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Golden Bears picked up a 31-10 victory last weekend against San Diego State, cashing as an 18.5-point favorite as the Under (48.5) cashed for a 3rd consecutive outing. Cal hits the road for the 1st time since its 21-14 upset at Auburn as an 11.5-point underdog.

The Seminoles have dropped 3 in a row to start, becoming the 1st team to lose 3 in a row after beginning the season ranked inside the Top 10. FSU has lost 2 of the games by a single score as the Under has cashed in all 3 outings.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal at Florida State odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 10:55 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Florida State -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Cal +2.5 (-110) | Florida State -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Cal at Florida State picks and predictions

Prediction

Florida State 23, Cal 20

Moneyline

Playing FLORIDA STATE (-135) is risky business, as it has not shown many signs of pulling out of its nosedive.

The Seminoles have dropped 3 in a row to start, but 2 of the losses are by 1 score. The defense has allowed 20 or more points in all 3 games, and it is as much to blame as lightning rod QB DJ Uiagalelei, who has taken most of the abuse via social media.

The Seminoles aren’t going to go winless, though, and Cal (+115) is making a 2nd cross-country trek in the past 3 weeks.

Cal star RB Jaydn Ott suffered a lower-body injury against UC Davis in the opener, and he was not effective in the upset at Auburn, which makes that win even more surprising. Ott had just 11 yards on 10 carries against the Tigers.

If Ott were 100% healthy, the Bears would be an intriguing play as a slight road ‘dog. He is listed as probable, so he is likely to play, but it’s uncertain if he is going to be full throttle.

Against the spread

If you have a little more belief in FLORIDA STATE -2.5 (-110), laying the points isn’t a terrible idea.

We haven’t seen the Seminoles play their best football yet, and a win over an unbeaten Cal +2.5 (-110) side could be just what the doctor ordered to turn things around.

If FSU suffers the loss, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the school make a rapid, perhaps rash, decision to dismiss coach Mike Norvell.

Over/Under

UNDER 44.5 (-110) is worth playing lightly.

The total has gone low in all 3 games for both teams. In fact, FSU has managed 13 or fewer points on offense in both home games.

For Cal, the defense has allowed 12.3 PPG through 3 outings, so the Seminoles should face more stiff resistance. The Noles D has allowed 24.0 PPG in 2 games at home, and it should be able to keep Cal under its season averages. The travel should take a toll on the Golden Bears in their 2nd trip east of the Mississippi.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

USC at Cal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s USC at Cal odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The No. 22 USC Trojans (6-2, 4-1 Pac-12) and Cal Golden Bears (3-4, 1-3) meet Saturday at California Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET (Pac-12 Network). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the USC vs. Cal odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

USC failed to cover the spread as a 7.5-point home favorite in a 34-32 loss vs. Utah as the Over (51.5) cashed last Saturday — its 2nd straight loss after starting 6-0.

The Golden Bears have lost 2 in a row and 3 out of 4 in conference play. They failed to cover as 9-point underdogs with a 34-14 loss at Utah as the Over (42.5) hit Oct. 14 before their bye last week.

USC is No. 22 in the US LBM Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

USC at Cal odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:41 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): USC -400 (bet $400 to win $100) | Cal +310 (bet $100 to win $310)
Against the spread (ATS): USC -10.5 (-105) | Cal +10.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 67.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

USC at Cal picks and predictions

Prediction

USC 45, Cal 30

Moneyline

Cal’s only conference win this season has been against a 1-win Arizona State team, and it was only a 3-point win.

USC has suffered 2 consecutive losses but against quality opponents.

So betting Cal to win in an upset seems way too unlikely, and betting the Trojans on the moneyline just doesn’t make sense in terms of value.

PASS.

Against the spread

The Trojans have struggled with the spread, going 2-6 ATS this season. They have failed to cover the spread in 5 straight games. They only have 1 double-digit conference win.

Cal, though, in its 3 Pac-12 losses, has been defeated by no fewer than 20 points.

BET USC -10.5 (-105).

Over/Under

The Over has hit in 7 of USC’s games and in 5 straight.

The Trojans have scored no fewer than 42 points in any of their wins.

Cal has twice allowed more than 50 points this season.

BET OVER 67.5 (-110).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Jess Root on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:
Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / Recruiting / Transfer portal / College Football Playoffs / College Sports Wire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Cal at Utah odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal at Utah odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (3-3, 1-2 Pac-12) square off against the No. 16 Utah Utes (4-1, 1-1) at Rice-Eccles Stadium on Saturday in Week 7 of the college football season. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET (Pac-12 Network). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cal vs. Utah odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Golden Bears failed to cover as 7.5-point home underdogs in their 52-40 loss to No. 14 Oregon State in Week 6, and the Over of 50.5 was easily achieved. Cal has alternated wins and losses in its 6 games this season.

The Utes are also coming off a 21-7 loss to No. 14 Oregon State in Week 5 following a bye week in Week 6. Utah was unable to cover as 4-point road underdogs and the Under of 43 hit in the loss to OSU. Despite the recent loss, Utah remains the No. 16 ranked team in the US LBM Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal at Utah odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 10:49 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +350 (bet $100 to win $350) | Utah -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Cal +10.5 (-105) | Utah -10.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 43.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Cal at Utah picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 27, Cal 13

Moneyline

Even with the Utes expected to win with ease on Saturday, I’ll PASS on the moneyline in this contest. Wagering on a team at nearly -500 odds straight up isn’t worth the risk.

Against the spread

BET UTAH -10.5 (-115).

QB Cameron Rising has yet to make a start for the Utes this season and it seems unlikely he’ll make his debut on Saturday. That being said, Utah boasts an elite defense that can create shorter fields for the offense to pull out a double-digit win at home.

The Golden Bears have gone 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall. Meanwhile, the Utes have gone 2-1 ATS at home this season.

Over/Under

UNDER 43.5 (-110) is how I’d bet on the total with how Utah is playing with Rising sidelined. The Utes are producing a mere 19.2 points per game offensively (tied for 13th-fewest in the nation) and are allowing only 11.8 points per game (tied for 5th-fewest in the nation).

Utah is also 5-0 to the Under in its first 5 games this season.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Skyler Carlin on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]