Rose Bowl: Utah vs. Ohio State odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Utah Utes vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Rose Bowl odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 11 Utah Utes (10-3) meet the No. 7 Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) Saturday for the Rose Bowl Game presented by Capital One Venture X. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Utah vs. Ohio State odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

The Utes picked up their first-ever Pac-12 Championship after topping Oregon Dec. 3 for the second time in as many meetings this season. Now, Utah is off to Pasadena for its first Rose Bowl appearance.

Utah has lost its past two bowl games in 2018 and 2019, last winning in the Heart of Dallas Bowl against West Virginia in 2017. The Utes are 14-3 SU across the past 17 bowl game appearances.

The Buckeyes have had a handful of opt-outs, as WRs Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson will not play, nor will OT Nicholas Petit-Frere and DT Haskell Garrett.

Ohio State has won its past three appearances in the “Granddaddy of Them All”, including a 28-23 win over Washington in the most recent appearance Jan. 1, 2018.

See alsoAFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports

Utah vs. Ohio State odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Ohio State +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Utah -3.5 (-110) | Ohio State +3.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 63.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Utah vs. Ohio State odds, lines, picks and predictions

Get some action on this matchup at Tipico Sportsbook, a trusted, global sports-betting leader and Sportsbook Wire’s official betting partner.

Place your legal, online sports bets in CO and NJ at Tipico now. IA, Tipico is coming to your state soon! New customer offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $100 in instant bet credits! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Prediction

Utah 36, Ohio State 31

Money line

UTAH (+140) is worth a roll of the dice at this price as it’s excited to be in this game. It’s all hands on deck for the Utes as no notable players have opted out despite several players declaring for the draft.

Ohio State will be without Olave and Wilson on offense, but it still has tremendous weapons in Heisman finalist QB C.J. Stroud, freshman sensation RB TreVeyon Henderson and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Plenty of talent is still around for the Buckeyes despite that they’re down a couple of stars, but it’s going to be an uphill battle all afternoon.

Against the spread

While UTAH +3.5 (-110) catching three and a hook is a good play if you’re not quite feeling them straight up. It’s going to be a close game and there’s going to be plenty of scoring.

Utah RB Tavion Thomas rushed for 1,041 yards and 20 touchdowns this season, and he is going to be a handful for Ohio State all day long.

Over/Under

The OVER 64.5 (-108) is the lean in this game, as we have two powerful offenses squaring off. Utah was good for 35.5 PPG this season, while Ohio State rolled up 551.3 total yards per game and 45.5 PPG, both tops in the country.

There will be a bit of a step back with no Olave and Wilson, but Henderson should run wild and Jaxon-Njigba will certainly get his.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Colorado at Utah odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Colorado Buffaloes at Utah Utes odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Buffaloes (4-7, 3-5 Pac-12) travel to Salt Lake City to take on the 19th-ranked Utah Utes (8-3, 7-1) Friday at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Colorado vs. Utah odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Colorado earned a 20-17 win over Washington Saturday and has won two of its last three games. The Buffaloes picked up the victory despite gaining just 183 total yards against the Huskies, and that’s nothing new for their 128th ranked total offense (267.5 yards per game).

Utah trounced then-No. 5 Oregon 38-7 Saturday, and heads into its regular-season finale having won seven of its last eight games. Utah has averaged 43.0 points per game over four straight wins.

Including a 38-21 Utes triumph last fall, Utah has won four in a row in a Utes-Buffs series that dates back to 1903.

Rankings courtesy of the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Colorado at Utah odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated 8:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Colorado +900 (bet $100 to win $900) | Utah -2000 (bet $2,000 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Colorado +23.5 (-107) | Utah -23.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 51.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Colorado at Utah odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 38, Colorado 14

Money line

Avoid plays with this kind of juice: PASS.

Against the spread

Colorado is 1-5 ATS over its last six games on artificial turf and 0-5 ATS in the last five games in this series. Utah is 16-7 ATS in its last 23 Pac-12 games.

Underlying defensive analytics figures are better than the surface numbers on the Utah side, and the opposite is the case for a Colorado team that struggles mightily in creating havoc and in keeping rushing teams off schedule and behind the chains.

The spread here is substantial; tab the UTES -23.5 (-115) with just a slight lean.

Over/Under

The Over is 6-1 in the Utes’ last seven games and 3-1 in the Buffs’ last four.

Friday’s number deserves some respect, though. It’s worth shading the upside but perhaps just with a partial-unit play. BACK THE OVER 51.5 (-115).

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Oregon at Utah odds, picks and prediction

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

The No. 25 Utah Utes (7-3, 6-1 in Pac-12) hosts the No. 5 Oregon Ducks (9-1, 6-1) Saturday for a conference clash at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Oregon vs. Utah odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Rankings courtesy of the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Oregon won its fifth consecutive game Saturday 38-24 over the Washington State Cougars as 13.5-point home favorites. The Ducks are 4-6 ATS and 5-5 O/U with the 63rd-toughest strength of schedule, according to USA Today’s Jeff Sagarin.

Utah has won six of its last seven games including three in a row with the latest being a 38-29 Week 11 victory over the Arizona Wildcats as 24-point road favorites.

Utes LB Devin Lloyd and DE Mika Tafua are first and second in the conference in both tackles for a loss and sacks. Utah is 4-6 ATS and 8-2 O/U with the 36th-toughest strength of schedule, according to Sagarin.

Last year’s Oregon-Utah game was canceled due to COVID. Oregon is 2-1 overall and ATS since hiring head coach Mario Cristobal in 2017. The Utes have beaten the Ducks twice (3-4 ATS) since joining the Pac-12 in 2011.

Oregon at Utah odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 6 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Oregon +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Utah -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Oregon +3.5 (-120) | Utah -3.5 (+100)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 59.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Oregon at Utah odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 27, Oregon 24

Money line

PASS because I can only “lean” to Oregon plus the points and am not confident enough to sprinkle on the underdog’s money line in this spot.

Also, since Oregon’s head coach Mario Cristobal took over the football program in 2018, the Ducks have the best winning percentage in Pac-12 vs. conference teams and vs. ranked teams.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to OREGON +3.5 (-120) because I envision this being a coin-flip game so I’ll take 3-and-the-hook with the road dogs. The Ducks have been profitable in this spot during the Cristobal era.

For instance, Oregon is 7-4 ATS vs. ranked teams with a plus-5.4 spread differential since 2018 and has won three straight games outright as a road underdog.

Furthermore, Oregon has higher predicted points added (PPA), third-down conversion rate and red zone scoring rate differentials than Utah. On top of that, both teams like to run the ball, but Utah is worse at defending the run.

The Utes rank 63rd in rush defense PPA, 80th in defensive line yards per snap, 84th in rushing defense explosive rate and 72nd in defensive open field yards.

Conversely, Oregon’s defense ranks 45th in rushing PPA, 45th in line yards per snap, 24th in rush defense explosive rate and ninth in open field yards.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 59.5 (-112) for 1 unit because this should be a smash-mouth football game with both teams trying to establish the run. Also, this is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market and we can buck all the Over-friendly trends in this matchup.

According to Pregame.com, nearly 90% of the cash wagered is on the Under while roughly 60% of the bets placed are on the Over. Since the money column is the presumed “sharp” side of the market, let’s follow the money.

Lastly, I’d assume most of the market is betting the Over because of the following trends: Oregon has gone Over the total in three of its past four games, Utah has gone Over the total in six straight and the Over has cashed in the last three Oregon-Utah meetings.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Utah at Arizona odds, picks and prediction

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

The Utah Utes (6-3, 5-1 Pac-12) take on the Arizona Wildcats (1-8, 1-5) Saturday at Arizona Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET. Below, we look at Utah at Arizona odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Utah is coming into this game with a mere three losses.

The Utes have been hot lately, defeating Stanford by 45 and UCLA by 20. They’ll open as heavy favorites vs. the Wildcats with their most challenging test, Oregon, still on deck next weekend.

As for Arizona, it has struggled mightily. Its only win of the season was actually last week against Cal.

While the Wildcats have eight losses, they’ve hung close in many games, so don’t be shocked if they cover a relatively large spread. They’ve lost four of eight by one score.

Utah at Arizona odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 11:06 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah -2500 (bet $2,500 to win $100) | Arizona +1000 (bet $100 to win $1,000)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Utah -24.5(-108) | Arizona +24.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 54.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Utah at Arizona odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 38, Arizona 17

Money line

PASS.

This is easy. Utah shouldn’t be upset, but betting its money line still offers no value. Betting the +1000 is wasting money as well. Just look elsewhere unless you want to tag Utah in a parlay which will barely increase the return.

Against the spread

BET ARIZONA +24.5 (-112) as the Wildcats have actually held most opponents close.

Yes, Arizona has just one win over a terrible Cal team, but even the top-five Oregon Ducks didn’t cover this wide a margin. Oregon beat Arizona 41-19 earlier in the season.

The Wildcats average over 130 yards on the ground per game. Utah gives up 142.7 rushing yards per game. While the same can be said for the Utes in terms of their offensive output, there’s no denying that Arizona is the better play.

Utah has only one win of 25 points or more this season, being the victory against Stanford. It didn’t even beat Weber State by more than 24. This is a wide margin, and while Utah should win, covering is a different story.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 54.5 (-110) as both teams can run the ball at a high level.

The Utes rank in the top 15 in rushing yards per game at 218.9. Arizona won’t be able to slow them down. Overall, Utah is notching over 430 yards per game. It has a dynamic offense.

With Arizona having put up 16 or more in three straight games as well, I expect the Over to hit in this one with it being more likely Utah getting the bulk of the points.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Utah at Stanford odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Utah Utes at Stanford Cardinal odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

On Friday night, the Utah Utes (5-3) will take on the Stanford Cardinal (3-5). Held at Stanford Stadium, the kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at Utah at Stanford odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Coming off a dominating 44-24 victory vs. UCLA and nearly upsetting Oregon, Utah has lost just three games. However, going on the road in the Pac-12 is never easy.

All three of Utah’s losses are on the road. The Utes’ strength is in their run game, nearing 200 yards per game on the ground. That’s incredibly impressive and something the Cardinals will look to limit.

As for Stanford, at home, the Cardinal gave Oregon its only loss. Oddly enough, two of their three wins are over Oregon and USC. Stanford has lost three straight games, two of which were on the road.

Stanford’s offense is the opposite of Utah’s, relying heavily on QB Tanner McKee. He has 14 touchdowns and 5 interceptions on the season.

Utah at Stanford odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 10:26 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah -340 (bet $340 to win $100) | Stanford +260 (bet $100 to win $260)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Utah -8.5 (-108) | Stanford +8.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 54.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Utah at Stanford odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 31, Stanford 27

Money line

PASS on the money line.

If Stanford weren’t so cold, I’d suggest its +260 money line, but I’m going to pass here as the points are just too much to overlook. Especially given that Stanford hasn’t won in over a month.

Against the spread

“LEAN” on STANFORD +8.5 (-112) as it’s not winning, but will make this a tight game. Stanford would’ve covered a touchdown spread in three of its last four games.

The Cardinal didn’t play well early on in the season but has kept games close since.

With a pass-heavy offense behind McKee, Stanford will try to expose a Utah team that gave up more than 400 passing yards to USC. The Utes have allowed over 200 passing yards in five straight games.

In Utah’s last two road games, the Utes have given up over 300 passing yards per game. Given how McKee-centric Stanford’s offense is, I think the Cardinal will live or die by McKee’s arm.

I think Stanford lives in this scenario. Neither defense is overly competent, so I’m favoring the team with the crowd backing them.

Over/Under

BET on the OVER 54.5 (-105) as QB Cameron Rising may be too much to deal with.

Rising is a dual-threat quarterback and is Utah’s second-leading rusher, topping 300 yards on the season. The Utes have scored more than 100 points in their last three road games combined.

Stanford is giving up over 200 yards per game on the ground.

The Cardinal is bad at what Utah does well. I expect Stanford to load the box on Friday, making Rising’s beat the Cardinal in the air. If Utah doesn’t, Stanford will roll.

I expect points to be scored, and I think McKee will keep Stanford in this game. Nonetheless, I think a high-scoring affair is a safe bet given the two offenses taking the field.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

UCLA at Utah odds, picks and prediction

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

The UCLA Bruins (5-3, 3-2 Pac-12) and Utah Utes (4-3, 3-1) tangle in a Saturday night game in Salt Lake City. The Pac-12 tilt at Rice-Eccles Stadium is slated for a 10 p.m. ET start. Below, we look at the UCLA vs. Utah odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

UCLA, which is coming off a 34-31 loss to Oregon, hits the road for a third game in four weeks. The Bruins, who allowed 296 passing yards to the Ducks, rank 125th in the nation in yielding 290.9 passing yards per contest. UCLA has won four straight games (straight-up and against the spread) on the road.

The Utes dropped a 42-34 game at Oregon State Saturday. Utah was outscored, 28-10, in the second half. The loss snapped a three-game win streak. The Utes now return to Rice-Eccles Stadium where they have won five in a row and 16 of their last 17.

UCLA at Utah odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:40 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: UCLA +190 (bet $100 to win $190) | Utah -240 (bet $240 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): UCLA +6.5 (-108) | Utah -6.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 59.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

UCLA at Utah odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 31, UCLA 28

Money line

Utah has won four straight games against UCLA, outscoring the Bruins 190-75. But the price is right on shooting for the UCLA outright win in this one.

The Bruins have performed better than what surface results in recent games against Washington and Arizona State show. The Utah offense is perhaps a bit too far out over its skis with a points-per-game average of 31.9.

The Bruins are solid against the run. That puts the Utes in jeopardy — at least to the point that makes for value on UCLA (+190).

Against the spread

UCLA leads the all-time series 11-7. Against the spread, the road team is 6-2 across the last eight meetings. The Bruins are 5-0 ATS in their last five games on the road.

Figure UCLA +6.5 (-108) as a solid value. The Bruins have the favorable analytic matchups in the trenches in this one.

Over/Under

There are some signals bouncing both ways here. And even more points to the number that has this total dead on. PASS.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Utah at USC odds, picks and prediction

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

The USC Trojans (3-2, 2-2 in Pac-12) host the Utah Utes (2-2, 1-0) Saturday in the United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for a Pac-12 conference game. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Utah vs. USC odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Utah beat the Washington State Cougars 24-13 Sept. 25, but failed to cover as 15-point home favorites.

Before that, the Utes lost back-to-back road games as favorites to non-Power 5 schools in the San Diego State Aztecs and the BYU Cougars. Utah hasn’t covered the spread in any game thus far and is 2-2 Over/Under (O/U).

USC bounced back from an embarrassing 45-27 Week 4 loss to the Oregon State Beavers as 10-point home favorites to thump the Colorado Buffaloes 37-14 as 9.5-point road favorites. The Trojans are 3-2 against the spread (ATS) and O/U this season.

USC has beaten Utah in two straight meetings, three of the last four (2-2 ATS) and the Utes have covered just once in their last five visits to Southern California.

Utah at USC odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 1:45 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | USC -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Utah +2.5 (+100) | USC -2.5 (-120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 52.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Utah at USC odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

USC 30, Utah 24

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to USC (-150) because I “lean” to the Trojans winning by a field goal or more, and they are probably the right side here. However, this money line is a little out of my price range, and there isn’t much difference between these teams.

Against the spread

So my BET on USC -2.5 (-120) is going against the presumed “sharp” side of the market. For instance, according to Pregame.com, 57% of the cash is on Utah, but 70% of the action is on USC.

And typically it’s wiser to follow the money when it’s going in the opposite direction as the public. Especially in a conference game featuring a sneaky consistent program like Utah and a popular program like USC.

But, this game getting bet below the key number of 3 is huge because, again, there’s not a lot separating these teams.

USC has played a slightly tougher schedule and is better in high-leverage situations (third-down and red zone conversion rates).

While Utah has a higher non-garbage time predicted points added (PPA), yards per play and non-garbage time Havoc rate differentials.

For me, the differentiator is Utah’s 1-4 ATS record at USC over the past five meetings, and the Trojans only needing to win by a field goal. BET 1 unit on USC -2.5 (-120).

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 52.5 (-112) for a small wager because this is both a “sharp” and “public” play. Utah-USC opened with a 48.5-point total, but one-way action has steamed it up to the current number.

Also, with the Over being more expensive it appears as though the market isn’t done betting the Over. But, that’s why it’s only a “lean” for me. It’s rarely profitable in sports betting to bet alongside the public, and we are getting to the party a little late on the Over.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Holy War: Utah at BYU odds, picks and prediction

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

The No. 18 Utah Utes (1-0) travel to LaVell Edwards Stadium to play the BYU Cougars (1-0) Saturday in what’s known as the “Holy War”. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:15 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Utah vs. BYU State odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Rankings according to the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Utah opened its 2021 season by bulldozing Weber State of the Big Sky conference 40-17 but wasn’t able to cover a massive 29.5-point spread at home. The Utes found a lot of offensive success and outgained the Wildcats 450-270 in total yards; however, they turned the ball over twice.

BYU handled business in Week 1 by taking down Arizona 24-16 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas but couldn’t cover as a 13.5-point favorite. The Cougars made Arizona a one-dimensional team by holding the Wildcats to just 81 rushing yards on 35 carries and intercepted 1 pass.

The “Holy War” had a truce last season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Utah won the last nine meetings and covered against BYU in six of those games.

Utah at BYU odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 8:38 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah -300 (bet $300 to win $100) | BYU +230 (bet $100 to win $230)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Utah -7.5 (+100) | BYU +7.5 (-120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 49.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Utah at BYU odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 34, BYU 17

Money line

PASS even though Utah (-300) is clearly the right side because risking three times your money when betting team sports has a really bad long-term return on investment. Utah has a nine-game win streak over BYU, but the Utes’ money line value is pretty minimal.

Against the spread

TAKE UTAH -7.5 (+100) for 1 unit because there’s “sharp line movement” heading in that direction, Utah has extra prep time and these squads are on the opposite sides of the returning talent spectrum.

Both the “pros” and “Joes” are backing Utah right now, which is the reason oddsmakers have moved this line up from the Utes laying 6 points to the listed number. Utah also benefits from starting its season Sept. 2, while BYU’s opening game was two days later.

Furthermore, BYU has the worst-ranked return of production out of the 127 charted teams, according to ESPN, while Utah ranks eighth.

Not only did BYU’s 2020 starting quarterback, Zach Wilson, go second in the 2021 NFL Draft but the Cougars were actually hit harder on defense. BYU ranks dead-last in returning defensive production and has just four starters returning this season.

Since both programs reside in the same state, BYU doesn’t have much of a home-field advantage, which is evident in Utah’s five-game road ATS win streak against the in-state rival.

Stream college football games on ESPN+ by signing up here.

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 49.5 (-108) for a quarter unit only because we are getting to the party a little late since all the pro-Over money has pushed this total up from the 47-point opener to the listed number. This is despite the Under cashing in three of the last four Utah-BYU meetings.

However, Utah’s offense started to look good at the end of last season, while scoring 30 or more points in the last three contests and dropped a 40-piece in the season opener.

With BYU’s defense being as raw as it is I could see the Utes hammering the Cougars and leaving a lot of garbage time for the OVER 49.5 (-108) to cash.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

First look: Utah at BYU odds and lines, Utes favored in Holy War

Previewing the college football Week 2 matchup between the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars with odds, trends and head-to-head records.

The Utah Utes (1-0) and BYU Cougars (1-0) meet Saturday at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:15 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Utah vs. BYU odds and lines; check back for our college football picks and predictions.

The Utes posted a 40-17 victory over Weber State of the FCS. Utah outgained Weber State 450 to 270, including 188 rushing yards to just 57. Utah does have some things to clean up as they lost a fumble and had an interception, too.

BYU topped Arizona 24-16 in Las Vegas, but it was a costly victory. CB Keenan Ellis was knocked unconscious, and he was hospitalized. WR Gunner Romney suffered a knee injury in the first quarter, too, and he was unable to return.

Utah at BYU odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 2:20 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah -300 (bet $300 to win $100) | BYU +230 (bet $100 to win $230)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Utah -7.5, +102 (bet $100 to win $102) | BYU +7.5, -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Total (Over/Under): Over 47.5, -103 (bet $103 to win $100) | Under 47.5, -117 (bet $117 to win $100)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

2020 betting stats (regular season):

  • ML: Utah 3-2 | BYU 10-1
  • ATS: Utah 3-2-0 | BYU 6-4-1
  • O/U: Utah 3-2-0 | BYU 5-6-0

Utah at BYU head-to-head

These teams meet in the 95th installment of “The Holy War”, playing for the Beehive Boot. Utah enters with a nine-game win streak in the series, including a 30-12 win in Provo Aug. 29, 2019, in the most recent meeting. BYU’s last win in the series came Nov. 28, 2009, at LaVell Edwards Stadium.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Utah at Stanford odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Utah Utes at Stanford Cardinal odds and lines, with college basketball betting picks, tips and predictions.

The Utah Utes (9-7 overall, 6-6 Pac-12) tangle with the Stanford Cardinal (12-8, 8-6) in a Saturday night (10 p.m. ET) Pac-12 contest at Maples Pavilion in Stanford, Calif. Below, we analyze the Utah-Stanford college basketball odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Utah at Stanford: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:47 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Utah +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Stanford -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Utah +4.5 (-110) | Stanford -4.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 137.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Utah at Stanford: Three things to know

  1. Stanford is looking to bounce back from an 18-point loss at home (to Colorado), the program’s worst since Dec. 21, 2017. After shooting a robust 54.7% from the floor in its previous three games, the Cardinal misfired its way to a 39.6% mark against the Buffaloes. For the season, Stanford is tied atop the Pac-12-in field goal shooting, connecting on 46.5% of its shots.
  2. These teams last faced each other on Jan. 14, when the Utes shot outshot the Cardinal, 49% to 35%, in a 79-65 victory. Over the last half-dozen meetings between Utah and Stanford, the Utes are 5-1.
  3. Stanford is 11th in free-throw rate and what can that mean on the scoreboard? In 14 games since Dec. 21, its meant more than a four-point advantage (average) to the Stanford five. Over its last two games at home — even with its opponents shooting over 83% from the line, the Cardinal has outscored foes, 28-21, on free throws.

Special College Basketball Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on any college basketball team money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if ANY team hits a 3-pointer today. Promotion available in CO, IN, MI, NJ, TN, VA and WV. IA and PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer!

Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Utah at Stanford: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Stanford 70, Utah 68

Money line (ML)

The price here is attractive, enough so to split some Utes-favoring action with the ATS wager below. TAKE UTAH (+170).

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Cardinal is 1-4 ATS in its last five games.

Stanford doesn’t hit the offensive glass hard and it gets a bit loose with the ball at times. That subtracts from the looks necessary to crank out a two-possession victory in this one. Utah has performed admirably on the road and is trending upward with its overall shooting.

TAKE UTAH +4.5 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

This match-up offers up conflicting analytics on hidden-points “luck” factors like second-chance efforts and points off turnovers. A PASS IS SUGGESTED.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

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