Saturday 10/15/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Virginia Tech Hokies (4-1) at Syracuse Orange (2-4)

Date: October 15, 2016 3:45 PM EDT

The spread offenses of Virginia Tech and Syracuse were both tested in the rain and wind last week in North Carolina. The Hokies passed. The Orange did not.

The teams will face off in a much more controlled environment at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse when the 17th-ranked Hokies (4-1, 2-0 ACC) face the Orange (2-4, 0-2) at 3:45 p.m. ET Saturday (ESPNU).

The question: Will Syracuse have success against a Virginia Tech defense that has shut down a pair of high-flying offenses in its last two games? The Hokies seem ready.

"No matter how good of a game we play, we never want to get complacent," Hokies cornerback Brandon Facyson said.

And how much better can the Hokies' offense perform when it does not have to deal with the sloppy conditions brought on by Hurricane Matthew?

Tech is coming off a convincing 34-3 road win over then-No. 19 North Carolina, a victory that vaulted the Hokies eight spots in the most recent Associated Press poll and put them in control of the division race.

While hardly prolific, the Hokies offense was efficient enough while taking advantage of favorable field position throughout the contest.

Quarterback Jerod Evans was only 7-of-17 passing for just 75 yards and two touchdowns, and running back Travon McMillian led the rushing attack with 76 yards on 17 carries against North Carolina. Both McMillian and Evans rushed for touchdowns.

The real key to the victory for Tech, however, was its defense. The Hokies completely shut down a Tar Heels offense that put up gaudy numbers in each of its first five games. The Heels rushed for only 73 yards and passed for just 58. They turned the ball over four times on two lost fumbles and two interceptions.

Tech's defense has been dominant during a recent run that included blowout wins over Boston College, East Carolina and North Carolina. ECU also boasts one of the top spread offenses in the country, and it struggled against the Hokies in much the same way the Tar Heels did.

The Hokies have outscored their last three opponents 137-20.

Syracuse's fast-paced, no-huddle spread attack, engineered by first-year coach Dino Babers, couldn't get going at Wake Forest last week. The Orange, coming off back-to-back 30-point performances, had a season-low 326 total yards in a 28-9 loss to the Demon Deacons.

Syracuse gained more than 400 yards in each of its first five games, and it exceeded 500 twice in that span.

"To me, we know they're going to put the ball in the air and operate at an incredible pace. ... They like to run the ball, too," Hokies first-year coach Justin Fuente said.

The Hokies could have their work cut out for them at the Dome, which it hasn't visited since 2002.

"Every down is a threat. They like to pass the ball, a very wide-open team," Facyson said of Syracuse. "We just need to execute."

Slowing down the pace also could help. The Orange like to play fast and pass-happy. When asked to do something different, Syracuse struggles.

Faced with the weather and a blitzing Demon Deacon defense, Syracuse ran the ball 40 times and passed it just 26. While the offense was successful picking up yards in dribs and drabs, it lacked the big-play capability of the passing attack and couldn't find the end zone after the second quarter.

The Orange threw just 14 passes through the first three quarters, and only took to the air late in the game as it attempted the late comeback. Quarterback Eric Dungy finished the game 14-of-25 passing for 156 yards with one interception.

"They were blitzing a lot on first down, stressing some personnel that have been young in their development, and we had trouble with it," Babers said. "They were getting to the quarterback and getting shots. We had some guys open, but our quarterback can't throw it to them if he can't see them."

On the bright side, the defense finally was able to keep an opponent from running up big numbers. It was a 14-9 game before the Deacons scored two touchdowns in the last four minutes.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Missouri Tigers (2-3) at Florida Gators (4-1)

Date: October 15, 2016 4:00 PM EDT

It was an unexpected bye week for No. 18 Florida, but there's a new Tiger in town Saturday when Missouri visits the Gators in a Southeastern Conference matchup in Gainesville, Fla.

Because of the threat of Hurricane Matthew, Florida postponed last Saturday's matchup against LSU.

The decision created controversy throughout the SEC. Some believed Florida could have relocated the game to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or a neutral site. But the delay in making the decision to postpone the game created too many logistical problems for travel arrangements to be made, according to Gators athletic director Jeremy Foley.

The issue still has not been settled -- LSU has nixed the idea of getting together on Nov. 19 by paying off the two non-conference opponents both teams are to face that day -- but all agree in the importance of playing the game because of its impact on the division races.

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey has said he wants both parties to come together and reschedule the game.

"As far as that postponed game, it's in the hands of the SEC and we want to play it," Florida coach Jim McElwain said. "And yet, our focus has to turn to homecoming week and Missouri."

The Gators (4-1, 2-1 SEC) take on the Tigers (2-3, 0-2 SEC) at 4 p.m. ET Saturday (SEC Network) at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at Steve Spurrier-Florida Field.

The unexpected week off gave Florida's banged up defensive line a chance to heal and gave starting quarterback Luke Del Rio more time to recuperate from an injured knee. McElwain said Del Rio would have played against LSU and will start against Missouri.

"We were upset that we weren't playing," Del Rio said of the postponement of LSU. "But we weren't upset at the reason why."

Del Rio hasn't played since being injured on a late hit in the win over North Texas in the third game of the season. He has completed 62 of his 101 pass attempts for 762 yards and six touchdowns against two interceptions this season.

His replacement, Austin Appleby, completed 42 of 67 attempts for 440 yards and three touchdowns with one interception in his two starts. Those numbers are comparable to Del Rio's but the Gators have scored only two touchdowns over their last six quarters after blowing a 21-3 halftime lead in a 38-28 loss to Tennessee beatingVanderbilt 13-6.

Like Florida, Missouri is coming off a bye week. McElwain said he's concerned about Missouri's big play ability, noting the Tigers have already posted twice as many explosive and they did all of last season. Missouri quarterback Drew Lock has passed for 1,675 yards this season with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions.

"Lock is doing a heckuva job with that," McElwain said. "He's got a strong arm."

His No. 1 target, wide receiver J'Mon Moore has 27 receptions for 450 yards. He has six touchdown catches in five games, which leads the SEC and is tied for ninth in FBS statistics.

Despite those numbers, the Tigers have problems of their own on offense.

They rushed for only 77 yards and passed for 188 in their 42-7 loss at LSU in their last outing on Oct. 1.

They now will take on one what is statistically the best defense in the SEC. The Gators have held their first five opponents to an average of just over 230 yards a game, which ranks No. 2 in FBS statistically nationally behind only Michigan.

On the other hand, a big offensive show has not necessarily been a big factor for the Tigers on their tips to Gainesville.

Two years ago the Tigers had only 119 yards on 49 plays and won the game 42-13. The previous visit in 2012 Florida had only 276 yards in total offense and won 14-7 with 14 unanswered points in the second half.

Despite having the task of going to one of the tougher places to play in the SEC, the open date looks to have come at a good time for the Tigers.

They could get key players including cornerback Logan Cheadle and linebackers Terez Hall and Donovan Newsom.

Wide receiver Jonathan Johnson, who has 11 catches for 201 yards -- 18.3-yards-per-catch average -- also looks to be over an ankle problem.

"The guys have a bounce in their step," first-year coach Barry Odom said of Mizzou.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Alabama Crimson Tide (6-0) at Tennessee Volunteers (5-1)

Date: October 15, 2016 3:30 PM EDT

Tennessee's ability to conjure up comebacks caught the attention of Alabama coach Nick Saban.

With the No. 1 Crimson Tide and No. 9 Volunteers meeting at 3:30 p.m. ET Saturday (CBS) at Knoxville's Neyland Stadium, Saban this week emphasized to his players the need to play a full 60 minutes.

"We can't relax in games, we can't have lapses in the game," Saban said. "We always talk about 'no scoreboard, keep playing.' When you relax, you let the momentum of the game change, and that's hard to get back.

"And the way people score points now, there have been numerous games where people were ahead by 21 points and end up losing the game. I think for everybody on the team to understand that, whether you play on special teams, offense or defense, is really important."

The Vols (5-1, 2-1 Southeastern Conference) scored three touchdowns over the final eight minutes of the fourth quarter last week to send their game at Texas A&M into overtime. Tennessee's seventh turnover of the game in the second overtime session resulted in a 45-38 loss.

Earlier this season, the Volunteers came from 17-7 down at Georgia to win 34-31 on a Hail Mary as time ran out, overcame a 21-0 second-quarter deficit to beat Florida 38-28, erased a 14-0 deficit to top Virginia Tech 45-24, and overcame a 13-3 halftime deficit against Appalachian State to win 20-13 in overtime by recovering a fumble in the end zone.

This game is one of the great rivalries in the South.

Though in different divisions of the SEC -- Alabama in the West, Tennessee in the East -- they play each other every year, and the Tide (6-0, 3-0) has won the last nine meetings.

"This game is a really big rivalry game and a special one for a lot of people in our state, our supporters and our fans," Saban said. "It's obviously a big game for our players as well, and it's very challenging to play this game on the road as it always is because there's always a lot of energy and enthusiasm.

"Tennessee, I think, has an outstanding team."

But one that is now in a precarious position in its division race.

The loss to the Aggies did more than just take something out of the aura of invincibility that the Vols created with their comebacks.

It also pinned them with their first conference defeat. With Florida also sitting at one loss and its game with LSU in jeopardy following a postponement, a second conference loss could put the Vols behind the Gators in the final standings and knock them out of the conference title game.

Turnovers were a huge factor in the loss to the Aggies. The Vols lost five fumbles and quarterback Joshua Dobbs was intercepted twice. Probably more than anything else, that is what irked Tennessee coach Butch Jones.

"I have been very outspoken about it," Jones said, "and everyone in our program understands that you can't turn the football over."

Other than that, Dobbs played a superb game, completing 28 of 47 passes for 398 yards and a touchdown and rushing for a net 57 yards despite losing 29 yards on four sacks.

With running back Jalen Hurd out due to a "lower extremity" injury, Alvin Kamara picked up the slack with 127 yards rushing. Hurd is expected back for the Alabama game.

Two players who definitely won't be available for Tennessee are defensive tackle Danny O'Brien and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin. O'Brien sustained a head injury in the loss to Texas A&M, and he subsequently was dismissed from the team for a rules violation.

Reeves-Maybin also is out with a shoulder injury that could require surgery.

"He is still looking at different options for what he wants to pursue," Jones said regarding a possible operation. "He has all the time he needs to make that decision. I think he has earned that right."

That is not good with the Vols facing a Tide offense featuring freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts, who is averaging more than 256 yards a game in total offense, and sophomore running back Damien Harris, who has three 100-yard rushing games this season.

"I think this is the best Alabama team we have faced since we have been here," Jones said. "Not to take anything away from other teams. They have all been very talented."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Kansas Jayhawks (1-4) at Baylor Bears (5-0)

Date: October 15, 2016 3:30 PM EDT

Baylor has been inconsistent on both sides of the ball this season, but the 11th-ranked Bears have found a way to win and remain in the discussion for the College Football Playoff as the undefeated Big 12 Conference leader.

"It's reflective of a team that knows how to finish and that's a tribute to our coaches and our players," Baylor interim coach Jim Grobe said.

"The players, once they see more formations and the plays, running plays and throws from a defensive perspective, you kind of figure things out a little more. And on offense, once you've seen coverages and fronts enough, you kind of get it figured out."

Baylor (5-0, 2-0 Big 12) comes off a bye week and rolls into Saturday's homecoming game against Kansas as a five-touchdown favorite. The Jayhawks (1-4, 0-2) nearly ended their 13-game Big 12 losing streak last week but missed three field goals in the fourth quarter -- from 37, 41 and 54 yards -- before losing 24-23 to TCU.

"Man, we got in a position to where we could take a shot at it, and as a coach that's all you really want," said second-year Kansas coach David Beaty. "We gave ourselves a chance to win, but, man, I am burning inside with the fact we weren't able to get the win because I felt like I gave it away in a lot of ways."

Baylor, whose toughest games figure to come after October -- TCU, at Oklahoma, at West Virginia -- appears to have its entire offensive arsenal coming together. Wide receiver KD Cannon is expected to be back from a groin injury this week, and running back Shock Linwood had his best performance of the year last time out at Iowa State, when Baylor eked out a 45-42 win in Ames, Iowa.

Linwood rushed for 237 yards against the Cyclones. He had only two carries for 4 yards a week earlier against Oklahoma State. Terence Williams and Jamycal Hasty help give Baylor a formidable backfield combination. The Bears are fifth nationally, averaging 290.2 rushing yards per game.

"You go week-to-week," Grobe said of the running back situation.

"Whoever plays the best one week is probably the lead sled dog the next week. The thing I'm happy about is to see how Shock handled not many carries against Oklahoma State and was just on fire against Iowa State."

Quarterback Seth Russell has been a dangerous dual threat, but he hasn't been lighting up defenses in the manner of recent Baylor teams under former coach Art Briles. Russell has completed 92 of 155 passes for 1,326 yards, with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions. He is averaging 265.2 passing yards per game.

The Jayhawks' secondary played well against TCU, with three interceptions of Kenny Hill, including two by cornerback Brandon Stewart. Kansas held Hill to 206 passing yards.

"We're developing. I love our team," Beaty said.

"They're showing improvement in a lot of different things. If we continue to do that, I think we'll continue to play competitive football and give our fans something they can be proud of. We're going to stay the course."

Part of the reason for last week's failed upset bid was that Kansas had to settle for field goal attempts, and part of that problem was Beaty admitted to calling conservative quarterback keepers for Ryan Willis. The sophomore, making his first start of the season, was responsible for four turnovers.

Nonetheless, Willis had his moments after replacing Montell Cozart as the Kansas starter. He completed 31 of 45 passes for 348 yards. But three interceptions and a lost fumble taxed the Kansas defense, which played at a level good enough to win a Big 12 game.

Willis was KU's starter's for most of last season after Cozart suffered a season-ending injury in the fourth game.

"He is going to probably make a big jump in this game and the next game, just in his pure execution," Beaty said. "Once you get to where it's second nature, now you can pay attention to what's going on down field."

The Jayhawks have dropped six straight games against the Bears. One matchup was close -- a 31-30 overtime decision in 2011 -- but the other five games were decided by an average of 56-11.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Utah Utes (5-1) at Oregon State Beavers (2-3)

Date: October 15, 2016 4:00 PM EDT

No. 21 Utah could be down to its sixth-string running back, a week after inserting a fourth-stringer at center.

Utah lost running back Armand Shyne to a season-ending knee injury last week, and his replacement, walk-on Jordan Howard, won't play Saturday at Oregon State because of an undisclosed injury. Next up could be redshirt freshman Marcel Manalo, true freshman Devonta'e Henry-Cole (who has not yet played) or a player moved from another position.

At least there's a chance that running back Zack Moss (309 rushing yards) could return mostly healthy for the game at Reser Stadium, starting at 4 p.m. ET.

"This is the worst I can remember and I've been here a lot of years," 12th-year Utes coach Kyle Whittingham said of the injuries. "I can't remember this many injuries."

Utah (5-1, 2-1) has still managed to find itself in a three-way tie for first-place in the Pac-12 South with Colorado and Arizona State. Oregon State (2-3, 1-1) ended a 12-game conference losing streak Saturday with a 47-44 overtime home victory over Cal.

"Can you grow from that? Boy, you better," Oregon State coach Gary Andersen said. "You absolutely should grow from that moment.

"We have to understand that is what you're supposed to do, win football games. It should give them an understanding of what it takes to win in the Pac-12. It's a great win, but we still have lots of work to do."

The Utes have been playing with fire by falling behind so early, given its injury situation. They were down 24-10 to USC before rallying for a 31-27 victory. They trailed Cal 14-0 in the first quarter and lost 28-23. They fell behind 14-3 to Arizona last week but came back for a 36-23 victory.

"We're a pretty decent football team if we stop some of the self-inflicted stuff," said Whittingham, who reached 100 career victories last week. "We do some things to create tough situations for ourselves. And we've got to get those fixed."

Oregon State rushed for 474 yards in last week's victory over Cal, when running back Ryan Nall became the eighth player in school history to rush for more than 200 yards in a game. He finished with 221 on just 14 carries. Art Pierce and speedy Paul Lucas are reliable backups who will also be needed against a Utah defense that is 24th nationally against the run, allowing 119.0 yards per game.

As for Utah's running game, the depletion in the backfield -- which includes the early season retirement of Joe Williams -- is exacerbated by the injuries at center. The Utes, without standout center J.J. Dielman for the rest of the season because of a foot injury, started fourth-stringer Nick Nowakowski last week against Arizona. Utah committed nine false start penalties.

Whittingham partially blamed that on Arizona's defense mimicking the snap count, although Wildcats coach Rich Rodriguez called that an "empty accusation." In any case, Utah will look this week in practice to see if senior offensive linemen Isaac Asiata or Sam Tevi can handle the center position.

"Nick Nowakowski didn't play poorly but we want to get the five best guys out there," Whittingham said. "If there's a better combination, I'm interested in that."

It has all put more pressure on quarterback Troy Williams, who has not thrown an interception in 106 passes in three Pac-12 games. His season completion percentage of 58.3 is something he is working on, but at least he is not putting Utah in trouble. Leading receiver Tim Patrick, who has caught five of Williams' seven touchdown passes, missed the Arizona game but has a "high probability" of playing Saturday, according to Whittingham.

Oregon State held Cal quarterback Davis Webb to 113 passing yards, well below his average of 428.6 entering the game. Cornerback Xavier Crawford had 10 tackles and broke up three passes.

Beavers quarterback Darell Garretson was just 13 of 24 for 85 yards, with two interceptions, in the win over Cal, when OSU was saved by its running game. The Beavers, who don't have a reception of longer than 20 yards in the past two games, will find that strategy harder to implement against a stout Utah front, led by potential first-round defensive tackle Lowell Lotulelei.

"They have really good run schemes with a lot of misdirection and fly sweeps," Whittingham said of the Oregon State run game. "They have a whole arsenal in their repertoire. That's the main thing, trying to stop them running the football."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mississippi Rebels (3-2) at Arkansas Razorbacks (4-2)

Date: October 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

After opening against Florida State at a "neutral" site (Orlando, Florida) and then playing four consecutive home games, Ole Miss comes out of its bye week to venture into an opponent's lair for the first time this season.

The first of two consecutive road games comes up Saturday when the 12th-ranked Rebels (3-2, 1-1) play No. 22 Arkansas (4-2, 0-2) at 7 p.m. ET in Donald G. Reynolds Stadium in Fayetteville (ESPN). Next week the Rebels go to LSU.

Ole Miss will be looking to snap a two-game losing streak to the Razorbacks, who are coming off a 49-30 loss at home to top-ranked Alabama and need a win to build some momentum before heading to Auburn the following week.

The Hogs won 30-0 in Fayetteville two years ago and 53-52 in overtime last year in Oxford.

"Two totally different games really," Ole Miss coach Huge Freeze said. "The first one was in November in Fayetteville. The weather was awful and we were disappointed after a Laquon Treadwell injury that kind of knocked us out of things.

"I didn't do a good job getting our team ready to play. Offensively, we were atrocious that night up there.

"Last year was a shootout. We couldn't stop them and they couldn't stop us. I thought we won the game a couple times, obviously, but they made a miraculous play on the fourth down. We stopped them on the two-point play and then we had a penalty and they converted.

"That game could have been won or lost a lot of different times, but we certainly struggled to stop them."

Ole Miss won't have Treadwell around this time either, but quarterback Chad Kelly will be back. He passed for 368 yards and rushed for 110 last year against the Hogs. He is averaging just over 319 yards a game passing this year and rushing for just under 25 a game.

Arkansas will be without quarterback Brandon Allen, who passed for 442 yards against the Rebels in 2015, but his younger brother Austin has picked up pretty much where big brother left off.

"I feel like I am watching the same guy," Freeze said.

Allen has completed 63.6 percent of his passed for an average of 272 yards a game. The Hogs also have a 100-yard rusher in Rawleigh Williams III, who has 605 yards in six games.

That's more of a concern for the Rebels than the results of the last two meetings, Freeze said.

"If that is what my focus is on 'Hey we got to get ready to beat them because they beat us last year', I don't really buy into that," Freeze said. "I buy into, 'Here's the plan that gives us the best chance to succeed and now we've got to make sure we understand and can efficiently do it.' That will be our focus."

The Hogs, though, may have to deal with the effect of having lost two of their last three games, both to SEC West rivals. Texas A&M won 45-24 on the last Saturday in September.

Coach Bret Bielema said he doesn't expect a problem.

"I think to the outside world, that's probably a very easy question to ask, but if you're in the locker room with our guys, it's something never that never really comes up," Bielema said. "They play very, very hard. They're locked in.

"They understand -- they had high expectations, and when you lose, you're going to have a high feeling of disappointment, so that's a good thing. But we definitely don't have time to sit around and feel sorry for ourselves."

With the 0-2 start in the SEC West, however, and Alabama and A&M sitting with no losses and Ole Miss with just one in league play, it's apparent that the Razorbacks dreams of an SEC championship are all but over.

"Obviously, to win the SEC West after an 0-2 start, we're going to need help along the way" Bielema said after the loss to Alabama.

Bielema doesn't see that having much of an impact on the Hogs' approach either.

"We're a 4-2 team that lost to the No. 1 team in the country and did enough things to make that happen," he said. "But we've got to correct the negatives for us to move forward on positives."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tulsa Golden Hurricane (4-1) at Houston Cougars (5-1)

Date: October 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

The common belief is that Houston no longer has anything to shoot for this season.

Cougars coach Tom Herman vehemently disagrees with that notion.

Houston is no longer a factor in the College Football Playoff chase after suffering its first loss of the season but the No. 13 Cougars look to bounce back when they host Tulsa in an American Athletic Conference game Saturday (7 p.m. ET, ESPN2).

Houston's dream of an undefeated season and crashing the playoff party ended when it dropped a 46-40 decision to Navy last week.

The defeat changes the national perception of the Cougars (5-1, 2-1) but Herman said the squad's aspirations aren't doused by a single loss.

"Our goals are completely ahead of us," Herman said at a press conference. "Our goal was not to go undefeated, it was not to just beat Oklahoma, and our goal wasn't to be ranked in the top 10 or five. Our goal is to win our conference. That goal is still out there."

The Cougars need help with their conference quest as they trail Navy in the AAC's West division.

But Herman isn't the least bit interested in having to apologize for the team's second loss in 20 games on his watch.

"The state of the program, after a season-and-a-half, in 14 months we are 18-2. That's a .900 winning percentage, that's pretty damn good," Herman said. "We are 5-0 against Top 25 teams, 2-0 against top 10 teams, and we have shattered numerous records on both sides of the ball.

"Some really cool things too. We have opportunity to have the best back-to-back seasons in the history of the University of Houston football. The win total for that over a two-year span sits at 21 right now. We are 18."

Tulsa (4-1, 1-0) could represent another test for the Cougars because of its prolific offense.

The Golden Hurricane have averaged 49.7 points during a three-game winning streak and have topped 500 yards in 10 of their 18 games under second-year coach Philip Montgomery.

In each of the last two games, Tulsa had two running backs top 100 yards and two receivers go over 100 yards.

Junior running back D'Angelo Brewer has rushed for 434 yards in the two contests -- including a career-best 252 against Fresno State -- to raise his season total to 716 yards. Brewer's average of 143.2 yards per game ranks fourth nationally. Senior sidekick James Flanders had rushed for 390 yards and four touchdowns.

Senior receivers Keevan Lucas (36 receptions for 508 yards and five touchdowns) and Josh Atkinson (32-354-2) are having solid seasons. Senior quarterback Dane Evans has passed for 1,135 yards and nine touchdowns but has been intercepted seven times.

Senior middle linebacker Trent Martin has a team-best 35 tackles and junior linebacker Petera Wilson Jr. has a team-leading 3 1/2 sacks. But the defense has been shaky by allowing 81 total points over the last two games -- both decided in overtime.

"I don't think there are ugly wins," Montgomery said. "For me, every win is beautiful. Every win that you get in college football is a beautiful, beautiful win."

It could be challenging for the Golden Hurricane to slow down Houston junior quarterback Greg Ward Jr., who has passed for 1,684 yards and 11 touchdowns against four interceptions. Ward also has rushed for 272 yards and six touchdowns -- both team highs.

The Heisman Trophy candidate passed for 359 yards and three touchdowns against Navy but his mistakes were also a factor in the defeat. Ward accounted for three turnovers -- he was intercepted twice and lost one of his two fumbles.

Junior receivers Linell Bonner and Steven Dunbar are both enjoying fine seasons. Bonner had 42 receptions for 556 yards and two touchdowns while Dunbar has 30 catches for 438 yards and three scores.

Defensively, the Cougars allowed 306 rushing yards in the loss to Navy after holding their previous seven opponents to fewer than 100.

Senior linebacker Steven Taylor, who has a team-leading 5 1/2 sacks, will return after a one-game absence because of a violation of team policy. Sophomore cornerback Howard Wilson has three interceptions and junior linebacker Matthews Adams has a team-best 36 tackles.

Houston won the last two meetings and holds a 22-18 series edge. But perhaps an element in this latest matchup is whether there will be a hangover effect for the no-longer unbeaten Cougars.

Bonner promises that what occurred against Navy won't be a factor.

"We have a 24-hour rule where after 24 hours we can't think about the game anymore," Bonner said. "Win or lose the game is behind us, and we can't think about it anymore."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Ohio State Buckeyes (5-0) at Wisconsin Badgers (4-1)

Date: October 15, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

Wisconsin faces an early elimination game against No. 2 Ohio State on Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison.

The No. 8 Badgers are rested after a bye week and, after a seven-point loss to Michigan, Wisconsin could be scratched off the contender list for the College Football Playoff at midseason with a second defeat.

Ohio State has become so accustomed to success that a 21-point win for the Buckeyes can be framed as only a moderate success.

Such was the case after second-ranked Ohio State's 38-17 win over Indiana on Saturday in Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes were good, but not as good as they had been in their first four games of the season.

The Buckeyes will file away the victory and move on to a more formidable challenge on Saturday (8 p.m., ABC) in a Big Ten showdown at No. 8 Wisconsin, which had a bye last week after losing for the first time this season the previous week at No. 4 Michigan in a hard-fought 14-7 decision.

The Hoosiers came ready to play and challenged the Buckeyes for much of the afternoon, but in the end they couldn't match Ohio State's superior talent.

For the first time this season, Ohio State didn't move the ball as efficiently as it had done against the likes of Oklahoma and Rutgers. Quarterback J.T. Barrett was limited to 93 yards passing, completing just 9 of 21 throws, and was forced to run 26 times for 137 yards to help the offense get some traction against Indiana.

The Buckeyes' game plan was to hit some deep balls to loosen up the Hoosiers' defense, but Barrett either misfired, receivers ran bad routes or the coverage blanketed his wideouts, forcing his excessive number of runs. He also faced some pressure from the Indiana pass rush that the offensive line at times found difficult to contain.

"We're going to go to the drawing board and clean it up next week," Ohio State freshman running back Mike Weber said. "Eliminate (mistakes) and get bigger wins."

Ohio State coach Urban Meyer, though, isn't going to worry too much about Barrett taking off with the ball considering his dynamic playmaking ability that's reminiscent of Braxton Miller a few years ago.

"I'll tell you, it's part of playing quarterback in this offense. You're one of the best players in the country, we're going to play you and use you and do what you do well," Meyer said. "We're aware of (the number of rushes) and have to be somewhat intelligent about how we do it, but go win the game."

Meanwhile, the defense continues to play at a high level. Ohio State forced two turnovers, including safety Malik Hooker's fourth interception of the season, and made some key stops. The biggest was a stop inside the 5-yard line in the second half with Indiana threatening to make it a seven-point game.

The Buckeyes realize they have to play better this week than they did against Indiana.

"Outstanding. The typical Wisconsin," Meyer said. "I think it goes back to (former) Coach (Barry) Alvarez and what he's built up there. I think Coach (Paul) Chryst ... I can push play and see it's one of the best coached teams in the United States of America. Very good players. They have their niche."

Playing at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison is never easy. The fans are hostile and Wisconsin will be gunning to knock off Ohio State, which lost there as recently as 2010.

Wisconsin is in the midst of the rigorous part of its Big Ten schedule. Coming off a bye week after the tough loss at Michigan and facing the prime-time matchup with Ohio State on Saturday, the Badgers travel to Iowa the following week and then return home to face Nebraska.

"I think we're all excited (to face Ohio State at night)," Wisconsin redshirt freshman quarterback Alex Hornibrook said. "It's going to be an awesome atmosphere here at night in front of our fans. I can't wait to play."

Hornibrook, a first-year starter, will have his work cut out for him against the Ohio State defense, which is ranked in the top 10 statistically in every major category. He had trouble against Michigan, completing just 9 of 25 passes for 88 yards and threw three interceptions.

"This will be another new challenge, a new experience for him," Chryst said. "But I'm very confident that he'll be himself and that's a good thing."

Wisconsin is known for its smash-mouth style featuring outstanding running backs in recent years such as Montee Ball and Melvin Gordon. But the Badgers are eighth in the Big Ten in rushing at 161.6 yards per game and the Buckeyes are No. 2 in the conference defending the run, which means Wisconsin could have trouble establishing a ground game.

"It is a good scheme, sound," Chryst said of Ohio State's defense. "And they've got guys that play it well. And I think they are playing with confidence."

Defensively, the Badgers get after opponents. In the loss to Michigan, their defense neutralized a Wolverines offense that piled up 77 points against Rutgers last week. Wisconsin held Michigan to one touchdown until the fourth quarter when the Wolverines scored the winning points.

"They're outstanding. They're what they've been," Meyer said. "It's amazing that they've had coach transition. They've changed defensive coordinators and it's a very similar defense. It's Wisconsin's defense. I like that. I like the fact that we change coordinators on offense, it's Ohio State's offense, so Wisconsin you've got to give the leadership a lot of credit. One of the best teams in America."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Best Bets - Week 7

It's been a highly entertaining college football season so far as we've reached basically the halfway point of the year.

Programs are really getting excited for potential conference championships and bowl game berths, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

So while many out there will be looking at all the big games with ranked teams involved, I'm heading out west this week for a Pac-12 game that's flying a little under the radar this week.

Odds: Arizona State (+12) vs. Colorado (-12); Total set at 61.5

Neither of these programs generate too many mainstream headlines in the Pac-12 with all the historically great programs the conference has, but this contest is actually a battle for 1st place in the Pac-12 South division.

The double-digit underdog from Arizona State actually leads the way in that regard at 5-1 SU, but questions and concerns about their strength of schedule make them a bit of a fraud in many eyes atop the standings.

They've got a great chance to prove their worth on the road against a very good Colorado team and this game could end up deciding a lot when all is said and done in the Pac-12 South.

Right off the bat, you'll see that both of these teams have one conference loss on their resume so far this season and it came to the same team: USC. Both of those losses came @USC which doesn't hurt Arizona State's or Colorado's rankings too much, but the fact that the Buffaloes had a much tighter game (21-17 loss compared to ASU's 41-20 loss) does bode well for the home side here.

Colorado is also a perfect 3-0 SU and ATS at home this year, as they've quickly become a bettor's best friend with a perfect 6-0 ATS mark so far in 2016. In fact, dating back to about the midway point of last year, Colorado is on a 10-2 ATS run right now and that definitely has something to do with why this week's point spread is as high as it is.

But rather than break down the side in this game, it's the total that caught my eye as both of these schools are coming off relatively low-scoring games and that provides a bit of value on this week's number.

Arizona State won 23-20 at home vs. UCLA last week to mark the second straight “under” for the Sun Devils. Colorado has played consecutive 'unders' as well after their 21-17 loss @ USC and those results have pushed this total a few points lower than it was projected to be had those results been different. Now we are getting a total that is a few points too low for this big game and I'm ready to capitalize on it.

For one, the fact that this game is in Colorado works well for an 'over' bet here. ASU has only played two road tames this year but they've allowed an average of 34.5 points per game in that role and could see that number rise a bit this week.

Colorado has scored at least 44 points in all three of their home games this year and while they all came against lesser competition, this Buffaloes team can put up points in a hurry. Colorado should have little problem gashing an ASU defense that allows nearly 500 yards per game – especially when it's the Buffs that are double-digit favorites – and we could see this game turn into a shootout in no time.

Arizona State is on an 8-1 O/U run after covering the spread last time out and are 7-1 O/U if they won that last game outright. They are also 6-1 O/U after allowing less than 100 yards on the ground (a rarity for them), and put up 48 points against this Colorado team a year ago.

The total on last year's game was just 57, but the two teams combined for 71 points and we could see this one reach the 70's again. Colorado would love to avenge that blowout loss and with them sporting a 17-7 O/U run against another winning team, this mini-trend of 'unders' that both teams are currently riding will be snapped emphatically.

Best Bet: Take Over 61. 5 points

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Best Bets - Week 7

It's been a highly entertaining college football season so far as we've reached basically the halfway point of the year.

Programs are really getting excited for potential conference championships and bowl game berths, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

So while many out there will be looking at all the big games with ranked teams involved, I'm heading out west this week for a Pac-12 game that's flying a little under the radar this week.

Odds: Arizona State (+12) vs. Colorado (-12); Total set at 61.5

Neither of these programs generate too many mainstream headlines in the Pac-12 with all the historically great programs the conference has, but this contest is actually a battle for 1st place in the Pac-12 South division.

The double-digit underdog from Arizona State actually leads the way in that regard at 5-1 SU, but questions and concerns about their strength of schedule make them a bit of a fraud in many eyes atop the standings.

They've got a great chance to prove their worth on the road against a very good Colorado team and this game could end up deciding a lot when all is said and done in the Pac-12 South.

Right off the bat, you'll see that both of these teams have one conference loss on their resume so far this season and it came to the same team: USC. Both of those losses came @USC which doesn't hurt Arizona State's or Colorado's rankings too much, but the fact that the Buffaloes had a much tighter game (21-17 loss compared to ASU's 41-20 loss) does bode well for the home side here.

Colorado is also a perfect 3-0 SU and ATS at home this year, as they've quickly become a bettor's best friend with a perfect 6-0 ATS mark so far in 2016. In fact, dating back to about the midway point of last year, Colorado is on a 10-2 ATS run right now and that definitely has something to do with why this week's point spread is as high as it is.

But rather than break down the side in this game, it's the total that caught my eye as both of these schools are coming off relatively low-scoring games and that provides a bit of value on this week's number.

Arizona State won 23-20 at home vs. UCLA last week to mark the second straight “under” for the Sun Devils. Colorado has played consecutive 'unders' as well after their 21-17 loss @ USC and those results have pushed this total a few points lower than it was projected to be had those results been different. Now we are getting a total that is a few points too low for this big game and I'm ready to capitalize on it.

For one, the fact that this game is in Colorado works well for an 'over' bet here. ASU has only played two road tames this year but they've allowed an average of 34.5 points per game in that role and could see that number rise a bit this week.

Colorado has scored at least 44 points in all three of their home games this year and while they all came against lesser competition, this Buffaloes team can put up points in a hurry. Colorado should have little problem gashing an ASU defense that allows nearly 500 yards per game – especially when it's the Buffs that are double-digit favorites – and we could see this game turn into a shootout in no time.

Arizona State is on an 8-1 O/U run after covering the spread last time out and are 7-1 O/U if they won that last game outright. They are also 6-1 O/U after allowing less than 100 yards on the ground (a rarity for them), and put up 48 points against this Colorado team a year ago.

The total on last year's game was just 57, but the two teams combined for 71 points and we could see this one reach the 70's again. Colorado would love to avenge that blowout loss and with them sporting a 17-7 O/U run against another winning team, this mini-trend of 'unders' that both teams are currently riding will be snapped emphatically.

Best Bet: Take Over 61. 5 points

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Tech Trends - Week 7
By Bruce Marshall

Saturday, Oct. 15

WESTERN MICHIGAN at AKRON... Zips only 5-8-1 last 13 vs. spread at InfoCision. WMU on quite a roll, 5-1 SU and vs. spread to open 2016, now 7-1 last eight vs. line since late 2015.

WMU, based on team trends.


EASTERN MICHIGAN at OHIO...EMU has rallied with covers last 4 and 5 of last 6 TY, though remember Eagles really had their problems after game five a year ago, covering just once. Solich 0-2 as home chalk TY if you want to count Gardner-Webb as a loss, but was 6-2 in role past two seasons.

Slight to Ohio, based on extended trends.


BOWLING GREEN at TOLEDO...Local rivals! 1-6 vs. line last seven since Dino Babers left before bowl LY. Rockets have won last six SU in series, 3-0-1 vs. line last four. UT on 12-3 spread run since early 2015.

Toledo, based on team trends.


BALL STATE at BUFFALO... Cards have covered first four on road TY. Ball now 36-'16 vs. spread as visitor since 2016 and that includes the 2-4 mark for Lembo LY. Bulls on 1-9 spread skid since late 2015.

Ball State, based on team trends.


UCONN at SOUTH FLORIDA...Bulls on 12-3 reg season spread uptick, including 8-2 spread mark last ten at Tampa. USF also 3-0 SU and vs. line against UConn since 2013. Diaco 9-22-1 vs. line with Huskies.

USF, based on team and series trends.


LA TECH at UMASS...La Tech on 13-6 run last 19 vs. line away from Ruston, though only 2-3 laying points in role LY. Mass 2-1 as home dog TY but extended spread mark just 7-12 last 19 on board since late 2014.

Slight to La Tech, based on extended trends.


VIRGINIA TECH at SYRACUSE...VPI big wins and covers last three TY. For Beamer the chalk marks were bad the past few years (15-32-1 in role his last five years), but Fuente 3-1 (3-0 vs. FBS foes) as chalk TY. Dino just 2-4 vs. line with Cuse, which is 0-2 as home dog TY after 4-0 mark a year ago in role.

Virginia Tech, based on recent trends.


TEMPLE at UCF...Rhule now 7-1 last 8 as dog after Memphis cover, but no covers last two vs. Knights. UCF has covered last three and four of last five TY for Frost in major turnaround year.

Slight to Temple, based on team trends.


IOWA at PURDUE...Hawkeyes 10-1 last 11 as visiting chalk. Road team has covered last five years in this series and six in a row dating to 2008. Hazell just 4-12 as Ross-Ade dog since 2013.

Iowa, based on team and series road trends.


MINNESOTA at MARYLAND...Md still only 2-3 vs. line TY. Terps had been 5-7 vs. line at College Park past two seasons. If getting points, note Gophers 8-3-1 as visiting dog since 2013.

Minnesota, based on team trends.


ILLINOIS at RUTGERS...Note Illini 5-10 as road chalk since 2006. Illini 5-14 vs. spread L19 away from home.

Slight to Rutgers, based on extended Illini negatives.


IOWA STATE at TEXAS...Charlie is 7-4-1 as chalk since 2014 and 4-2-1 last seven laying points in Austin, though has failed to cover last two vs. ISU and was blanked LY at Ames. Matt Campbell teams at Toledo and ISU are 15-7 as dog since 2012.

ISU, based on team and recent series trends.


NORTH CAROLINA at MIAMI-FLORIDA... Home team has covered last four meetings, blowouts last two years. Fedora 6-1 vs. spread last seven as visitor. Canes 9-3-1 as home chalk since 2014.

Slight to Miami, based on team and series home trends.


NC STATE at CLEMSON...Clemson has won SU last four meetings with blowouts last two. Note NCS has been a good bully since LY but is 0-5 last five as dog.

Clemson, based on recent series trends.


NORTHWESTERN at MICHIGAN STATE...Pat Fitz now 7-3 as visiting dog since 2014, 13-7 in role since 2011. Dantonio only 11-19 as East Lansing chalk since 2012 (0-3 TY), 3-12 overall as chalk since LY.

Northwestern, based on team trends.


KANSAS STATE at OKLAHOMA...Road team has won and covered last five meetings. Revenge for Bill Snyder after 55-0 loss LY. Stoops no covers last three at Norman. Snyder 21-11 as dog since 2011.

K-State, based on series and Snyder dog trends.


NEBRASKA at INDIANA... Hoosiers now 4-1 last five as home dog as they finally begin to get some identifiable trends for Kevin Wilson, whose spread numbers have been mostly middling since he arrived in 2011. Mike Riley 4-1-1 vs. line last six since late LY though his Huskers teams just 5-7-1 as chalk.

Slight to Indiana, based on team trends.


MISSOURI at FLORIDA...Mizzou no covers last four as visitor (0-2 for Odom) and 1-6 vs. spread in role since 2015. McElwain only 2-7 last nine on board, and 2-5 as Swamp chalk since LY.

Slight to Florida, based on recent Mizzou road negatives.


SOUTHERN MISS at LSU...Ed Orgeron SC and LSU teams now 6-3 vs. line in his interim roles since 2013. Tigers 9-5-1 as home chalk since 2014. USM 8-3 last 11 as road dog, plus covers last three vs. SEC foes.

Southern Miss, based on team trends.


PITT at VIRGINIA...Bronco Mendenhall now four straight covers TY, his BYU and Cav teams now 16-7 last 23 as dog. Narduzzi just 2-8 as chalk at Pitt. Cavs covered last two years in series.

Virginia, based on team and recent series trends.


WEST VIRGINIA at TEXAS TECH...Kingsbury 3-0 vs. line against Holgorsen. If favored, note Red Raiders also now 6-1 last seven as Lubbock chalk. WVU 1-7 vs. spread last 8 away from Morgantown.

Texas Tech, based on team trends.


NEW MEXICO vs. AIR FORCE (at Cotton Bowl, Dallas)... Lobos have covered past four years vs. Force and won SU at home LY.

New Mexico, based on series trends.


TULSA at HOUSTON...Tulsa no covers first two on road TY after 7-0 spread mark away LY. Believe it or not, Cougs only 3-5-1 last nine as home chalk, even though 29-16-1 vs. spread since 2013.

Slight to Tulsa, based on team trends.


FAU at MARSHALL...Owls 0-6 vs. line TY, now 3-13-1 last 17 on board. Also 0-3 as dog TY after 23-9 dog mark previous four years. Herd 17-8-1 as DD chalk since 2013, but only 1-4 vs. line overall TY.

Slight to Marshall, based on recent FAU negatives.


GEORGIA SOUTHERN at GEORGIA TECH...Paul Johnson just 3-12 vs. line last 15 on board. Jackets 3-8 as chalk since LY after 10-4-1 mark in role 2013-14. Ga So 0-2 as road dog TY and just 1-4 vs. line in 2015.

Slight to Georgia Southern, based on team trends.


GEORGIA STATE at TROY...GS 2-1 as road dog TY, now 17-5 as visiting dog since 2013! Also beat Troy in Atlanta LY. But Trojans 4-0-1 vs. line TY in recovery season, now 6-0-1 last six on board since late 2015.

Slight to Georgia State, based on team trends.


SOUTH ALABAMA at ARKANSAS STATE...Ark State was 8-3 as Jonesboro chalk entering TY before loss vs. UCA. Red Wolves have won and covered last three vs. Jags. Even with upsets over Miss State and SDSU, USA only 2-2 as dog TY and 6-13 in role since 2013.

Slight to Arkansas State, based on series trends.


UTSA at RICE...Rice squeezed cover at USM but was 2-10-1 previous 13 vs. spread dating to early 2015. Bailiff is 4-0 SU and 3-1 vs. line against UTSA past four seasons. Rice 1-5-1 vs. points last seven as host, though still 6-2-1 as home chalk since 2014 (0-1 TY).

Slight to UTSA based on Rice negatives.


CENTRAL MICHIGAN at NORTHERN ILLINOIS...Chips 12-7 vs. line since LY, while NIU had dropped 7 straight vs. line prior to covers last 2 TY. Chips have upset Huskies past two years.

CMU, based on team and recent series trends.


KENT STATE at MIAMI-OHIO... No covers for Kent last two vs. Miami. Flashes only 5-8 as road dog since 2014. Chuck Martin is 17-12-1 vs. line with RedHawks.

Slight to Miami-Ohio, based on team trends.


ALABAMA at TENNESSEE...Butch has covered last two meetings and Vols 5-2 as dog since 2014. Butch 4-1 as Knoxville dog since taking over in 2013. Tide 8-3 last 11 as chalk away from Tuscaloosa. Saban 9-0 SU vs. Vols as Bama coach, last UT series win was over Mike Shula back in 2006.

Tennessee, based on team and recent series trends.


OLE MISS at ARKANSAS...Bielema has covered all three vs. Hugh Freeze since 2013, a neat trick as Freeze otherwise 26-14 vs. line that span. Freeze 12-6 as dog with Rebs since 2012, though Bielema 20-10 last 30 on board.

Slight to Arkansas, based on recent series trends.


VANDERBILT at GEORGIA..Dores 9-5 last 14 as SEC road dog and covered last three in series. Dawgs 2-6 last 8 as home chalk.

Vandy, based on team trends.


ARIZONA STATE at COLORADO...Rampaging Buffs 6-0 vs. spread TY as MacIntyre now on 11-2 spread surge since mid 2015. CU 11-3 vs. spread last 14 at Boulder. Home team has covered last 3 years in series. Sun Devils 2-7 vs. spread last nine reg season away from Tempe.

Colorado, based on team trends.


KANSAS at BAYLOR...Jayhawks 0-2 as road dog TY, now 3-9-1 in role since 2014. No covers last four vs. Baylor, as Bears have scored 62 ppg over the last three meetings. Grobe however only 1-4 vs. line TY.

Baylor, based on series trends.


WAKE FOREST at FLORIDA STATE...Deacs 8-3 last 11 as dog and that includes narrow home loss to FSU LY. Wake also 5-2 last seven vs., spread on road. Jimbo 0-2 as Doak Campbell chalk TY.

Wake Forest, based on team trends.


FIU at CHARLOTTE... Ron Cooper 2-0 SU and vs. line as HC at FIU after Golden Panthers' 0-7-1 spread skid. 49ers just 5-10-1 last 16 on board since early LY. Charlotte 1-4 vs. line against FBS TY.

FIU, based on team trends.


WESTERN KENTUCKY at MIDDLE TENNESSEE...Teams have split last two, home sides winning and covering each. MT 7-3-2 last 12 as chalk, Tops now no covers last five TY (0-4-1) after La Tech loss.

Slight to MTSU, based on recent trends.


TEXAS STATE at UL-MONROE...TSU has won and covered last two meetings. ULM 5-10 as Malone Stadium chalk since 2012.

Texas State, based on recent series trends.


STANFORD at NOTRE DAME...Irish 3-0-1 vs. line last four meetings though Stanford has won two of those. Tree 4-5 as visiting chalk since 2014 including bitter loss at South Bend two years ago. Irish 1-2 vs. line at home TY after Kelly was 5-1 a year ago under Golden Dome.

Slight to Notre Dame, based on series trends.


OHIO STATE at WISCONSIN...Paul Chryst 3-0 as dog TY and covers last five in role. Badgers have not been a Madison dog since back in 2010 vs. Buckeyes, and beat them 31-18. Badgers 11-3-1 as dog since 20123. Urban however 5-1 last six as road chalk.

Wisconsin, based on team trends.


NEW MEXICO STATE at IDAHO...Home side has won SU last six meetings and covered last three. But Vandals just 2-5 last seven as Kibbie Dome chalk, and 2-7 vs. spread last nine in Moscow.

Slight to NMSU, based on team trends.


UCLA at WASHINGTON STATE...Leach beat Mora in thriller LY. Cougs 6-3 vs. line in Pullman since LY. Cougs also on 13-2 spread uptick since early 2015. Mora on 1-7 spread skid since late 2015.

WSU, based on team trends.


SOUTHERN CAL at ARIZONA...Trojans 0-3 SU and vs. line away in 2016, no covers last seven or eight of last nine away from Coliseum. Cats 9-2 vs. line last 11 meetings extending back to the highest points of the Carroll era. Cats 6-1 as a home dog under Rich-Rod.

Arizona, based on team and series trends.


COLORADO STATE at BOISE STATE...Boise has won big the past five meetings and 4-1 vs. line. Broncos however now no covers last five as blue carpet chalk since mid 2015.

Slight to Boise State, based on series trends.


UTAH at OREGON STATE... As Corvallis dog, OSU 1-3-1 since LY. Utes 9-4 vs. spread last 13 as visitor.

Utah, based on team trends.


NEVADA at SAN JOSE STATE...Polian has owned Caragher, winning and covering last three meetings. SJSU was 6-1 as chalk LY but no mark in role TY as Spartans struggle. Pack 0-3 SU and vs. line away TY but was 10-2 vs. spread as visitor the past two seasons.

Nevada, based on team and series trends.


UNLV at HAWAII...Home team has won SU last seven years in series. UH has covered last 3 TY. Rebs 1-5 vs. line last five away.

Houston, based on series home trends.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Saturday's NCAAF Top 25 betting cheat sheet and odds: Week 7

We're on to Week 7 of the college football season and the full slate of games can be tough to navigate for bettors. So we bring you our Top 25 betting cheat sheet to handicap the best games of the day.

North Carolina State Wolfpack at No. 3 Clemson Tigers (-17.5, 63)

* The Wolfpack offense has put up big numbers — including 500 or more total yards in three of five games — but its totals are skewed by last week’s paltry 198 total yards in driving rain and heavy winds. Running back Matthew Dayes was about the only offensive player who had success in the difficult conditions, as he rushed for 126 yards on 23 carries, though quarterback Ryan Finley continues to take care of the ball — he has not thrown an interception or lost a fumble this season. N.C. State boasts the ACC’s best run defense, holding opponents to 91 yards per game on the ground.

* The Tigers have rolled up more than 500 total yards of offense in two straight games, and running back Wayne Gallman has found some running room with back-to-back 100-yard performances. Getting Gallman going has helped open up the passing game for Deshaun Watson, who has tossed nine touchdown passes in the past two games but continues to struggle with turnovers — having committed nine giveaways through six games. Clemson’s defense has been dominant against the pass, holding opponents to 149 yards per game, but has been slightly more susceptible against the run, giving up an average of 133.2 yards on the ground.

LINE HISTORY: Clemson opened the college betting week at -17 but by Monday morning that line had gone up slightly to the current number of -17.5. The total hit the board at 56.5 and has skyrocketed all week and, as of Friday afternoon, sits at 63. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Wolfpack are 1-5 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Tigers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
* Over is 6-1-1 in Wolfpack last 8 games overall.
* Over is 6-0 in Tigers last 6 games in October.

Kansas State Wildcats at No. 20 Oklahoma Sooners (-13, 58)

* The Wildcats bounced back from the one-point defeat to the Mountaineers with a 44-38 home win over Texas Tech last week. Quarterback Jesse Ertz has thrown for five touchdowns and has added three more on the ground as the team’s second-leading rusher with 50.6 yards per game. Kansas State’s calling card, though, has been a defense led by linebacker Elijah Lee (team-most 8.2 tackles per game) and defensive end Jordan Willis (Big 12-most six sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss) which is pacing the conference in fewest points (17.6) and total yards (310.2) allowed per outing.

* Quarterback Baker Mayfield is coming off his best outing of the season, throwing for 390 yards and connecting with wideout Dede Westbrook on a trio of touchdown passes in last week’s 45-40 win over Texas in Dallas. Westbrook finished with 10 receptions and a school single-game record 232 receiving yards. Linebacker Jordan Evans leads Oklahoma with 8.8 tackles per game, but Oklahoma ranks in the Big 12’s bottom half in both scoring (36.2 points) and total (428.4 yards) defense.

LINE HISTORY: The home favorite Oklahoma Sooners opened at -10 and that line was not even close to high enough for the betting public. The favorites were bet heavily all week and the line rose right along with the action. As of Friday afternoon the Sooners were sitting at -13. The total opened at 63.5 and action on the Under took that number all of the way down to 58 by Friday. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Wildcats are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games on grass.
* Sooners are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games overall.
* Under is 6-1 in Wildcats last 7 games after accumulating less than 170 yards passing in their previous game.
* Over is 7-1 in Sooners last 8 home games.
* Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings.

No. 18 West Virginia Mountaineers at Texas Tech Red Raiders (+1.5, 84)

* The Mountaineers have their own standout quarterback in Skyler Howard, who has completed 65.8 percent of his passes for 1,272 yards and seven touchdowns. Offensive line protection is led by Tyler Orlosky and Adam Pankey, who have combined to line up for 5,184 plays during their careers. Kicker Josh Lambert, who returned last week after missing three games because of suspension, is no longer with the team, but Mike Molina has been 14-for-14 on extra points and 5-for-6 on field goals in his absence.

* Mahomes leads an offense that averages 649.8 yards in total offense (second in the nation), ranks first nationally in first downs and is second in third down conversion success (53 percent). Mahomes threw for 2,274 yards and 20 touchdowns this season, relying on top targets Jonathan Giles (614 yards, seven TDs), Cameron Batson (341, five) and Dylan Cantrell (319, four). The Red Raiders have to establish some kind of running game, hoping that Demarcus Felton (270 yards, three TDs) can keep the West Virginia defense off balance.

LINE HISTORY: Texas Teck opened the week as 1.5-point home favorites. On Monday afternoon this line jumped the fence and flipped to West Virginia as one-point faves. The spread crept back toward a pick 'em on Thursday but on Friday it jumped back up in West Virginia's direction at 1.5. The total opened at 83 and was steady all week until it took a jump up to 84 on Friday. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Mountaineers are 1-10 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Red Raiders are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 conference games.
* Under is 18-4 in Mountaineers last 22 games on fieldturf.
* Over is 11-1 in Red Raiders last 12 games after allowing less than 170 yards passing in their previous game.

No. 23 Western Michigan Broncos at Akron Zips (+12, 73.5)

* The Broncos are piling up the points in part because quarterback Zach Terrell has completed 70.6 percent of his passes and has yet to be intercepted. The senior, who has also rushed for three scores, has thrown 15 TD passes, with eight of those scores going to senior wide receiver Corey Davis. Western Michigan's ground game is just as strong and averages 231.7 yards, led by Jamauri Bogan (530 yards, 5 TDs) and Jarvion Franklin (514 yards, 5 TDs).

* Zips starting quarterback Thomas Woodson suffered a shoulder injury in a 45-38 home loss to Appalachian State that dropped the team to 2-2, and junior Tra'Von Chapman has stepped up with two straight strong games in his place. Chapman did just enough in a 31-27 win at Kent State on Oct. 1 and improved last weekend, throwing for 174 yards and three TDs without an interception and rushing for 80 yards and a score. Akron allowed an average of 40.3 points in its first four games but cut that number down to 20 through two games in MAC play.

LINE HISTORY: Western Michigan opened as 10.5-point road favorites and by the end of the week that number was up to 12 points. The total hit the board at 68.5 and went through the roof all week to clock in at 73.5 on Friday afternoon. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Broncos are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 road games.
* Zips are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 conference games.
* Over is 9-1-1 in Broncos last 11 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
* Broncos are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings.

No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide at No. 11 Tennessee Volunteers (+12.5, 57.5)

* Freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to impress and has accounted for 14 touchdowns (nine passing, five rushing) while being intercepted just twice. Sophomore running Damien Harris (team-leading 478 rushing yards, 8.7 yards per carry) and freshman running back Joshua Jacobs (307 yards, 8.3 average) are running through big holes, while sophomore receiver Calvin Ridley is getting open often with 34 receptions for 412 yards and four touchdowns. Senior strong-side linebacker Ryan Anderson (team-best 4 1/2 sacks) and senior defensive end Jonathan Allen (four sacks) are enjoying stellar campaigns and senior weak-side linebacker Reuben Foster has a team-best 37 tackles for a unit that leads the nation in rushing defense at 69.2 yards per game.

* The terrific performance from Kamara (292 rushing yards, team-best 20 receptions) came with junior leading rusher Jalen Hurd (407 yards) sidelined with undisclosed injuries and coach Butch Jones said that Hurd will play versus Alabama. Senior quarterback Joshua Dobbs has passed for 1,433 yards and accounted for 19 touchdowns (14 passing, five rushing) but his penchant for ill-advised throws - he has tossed eight interceptions - could be a problem against the opportunistic Crimson Tide. Junior strong safety Todd Kelly has a team-leading two interceptions and is tied with junior middle linebacker Colton Jumper for the team lead of 39 tackles, while junior defensive end Derek Barnett has been dominant on the line with team-leading totals of five sacks and nine tackles for losses.

LINE HISTORY: Alabama opened the week as 11.5-point road favorites over a very good Tennessee squad. By mid-week the line was all of the way up to 13 and by Friday it had settled back down slightly to 12.5. The total opened at 58 and dropped slightly to 57.5 by Friday afternoon. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Crimson Tide are 9-2 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Volunteers are 7-1 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Under is 5-1 in Crimson Tide last 6 games after scoring more than 40 points in their previous game.
* Crimson Tide are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 meetings in Tennessee.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons at No. 16 Florida State Seminoles (-21, 53)

* Freshman running back Cade Carney has rushed for 100 yards twice in the three games he was not sidelined by knee injury, including 104 last Saturday versus Syracuse, to support sophomore Matt Colburn (361 yards). Wolford has thrown for 826 yards, completing 57.2 percent of his passes, and rushed for another 276 – 94 in the win against the Orange. The defense is led by senior safety Ryan Janvion (309 career tackles) and senior linebacker Marquel Lee, who registered a career-high 15 tackles with two sacks last time out.

* Cook got off to a slow start, but has worked his way to first in the nation with 1,130 yards from scrimmage -- 785 and seven touchdowns on the ground. Freshman quarterback Deondre Francois continues to impress while taking punishment, completing 63 percent of his passes for nine scores with two interceptions and running for 150 yards. Senior end DeMarcus Walker continues to lead the defense with eight tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, but the Seminoles have lost senior safety Nate Andrews for the season due to a torn pectoral.

LINE HISTORY: Florida State opened as 22.5-point faves and by Friday afternoon the spread was down to -21. The total opened at 53, went up to 54 during the week, and dropped back to the opening number of 53 on Friday. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Demon Deacons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
* Seminoles are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games on grass.
* Under is 13-3 in Demon Deacons last 16 games in October.
* Home team is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings.

No. 9 Nebraska Cornhuskers at Indiana Hoosiers (+3, 56)

* The Cornhuskers expect to be without their best receiver in Jordan Westerkamp (back), top tight end Cethan Carter (elbow) and second-leading rusher Devine Ozigbo (ankle), while quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. (ankle) spent last week in a walking boot and could be limited as a runner. Nebraska did get some good news on the injury front, however, as leading receiver Alonzo Moore recovered more quickly than expected from a shoulder injury and is expected to play after sitting out in the team's Oct. 1 win over Illinois. Terrell Newby put the Cornhuskers on his back late in that same game, touching the ball on 18 of the team's final 21 plays and piling up 118 of his season-high 140 yards rushing and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

* Richard Lagow leads the Big Ten in yards per completion (15.7, sixth nationally), yards per attempt (9.4, seventh), passing yards per game (292, 21st) and passing yards (1,460, 26th), although he has thrown for as many touchdowns as interceptions (seven) over his last three games. Devine Redding has yet to score a touchdown despite logging 105 carries, but the junior running back and 1,000-yard rusher from a season ago ranks fourth in the conference in rushing (491). Big-play sophomore wideout Nick Westbrook, who leads the team with 20 catches, 437 yards receiving and four touchdowns, is the only player in the Big Ten and one of eight players in the nation with at least two receptions of 70-plus yards.

LINE HISTORY: Nebraska opened as 6.5-point road favorites and the public was on Indiana all week. Books adjusted the line down all week and on Friday afternoon the Huskers were down to 3-point faves. The total began the week at 55.5 and by Friday was stiing at 56. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Cornhuskers are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 road games.
* Hoosiers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 conference games.
* Under is 5-1 in Cornhuskers last 6 games on fieldturf.
* Over is 10-1 in Hoosiers last 11 games after accumulating less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game.

North Carolina Tar Heels at No. 17 Miami Hurricanes (-7, 64.5)

* While Fedora didn't use the weather as an excuse, the conditions were far from ideal for an attack that is still averaging 299.8 yards passing despite Trubisky managing only 58 yards against the Hokies. The junior has no shortage of productive receivers, led by Ryan Switzer (49 catches, 98.2 yards per game, 1 touchdown), Austin Proehl (20, 46.0 yards, 1 TD) and Bug Howard (19, 45.3 yards, 3 TDs); he should also benefit from the return of tailback Elijah Hood (338 yards, 4 TDs) and guard Caleb Patterson. The defense has received solid play from safety Donnie Miles, linebacker Andrew Smith and Malik Carney up front, but injuries are an issue for a unit that is ranked 88th in total defense (421.6 yards per game) and has zero interceptions.

* Quarterback Brad Kaaya (229.8 yards per game, 10 TDs) threw a pair of touchdown passes against FSU to senior wide receiver Stacy Coley (22 receptions, 13.2 yards, 6 TDs) - including a clutch fourth-down connection prior to the botched extra point - but the junior also threw a costly interception in the end zone that turned the game's momentum. The offensive line needs to bounce back from a poor game in which it allowed three sacks and didn't fare well in opening holes for Walton (448 yards, 8 TDs) and Joe Yearby (363 yards, 5 TDs). Led by freshman linebackers Michael Pinckney and Shaquille Quarterman, the defense showed toughness despite giving up 20 points to FSU and still ranks near the top nationally in numerous defensive categories.

LINE HISTORY: Miami opened the betting week as seven-point favorites and on Friday afternoon they were still at -7...but the week was anything but quiet. On Monday the spread dropped to -6.5, Tuesday morning it jumped up to -7.5, Wednesday morning Miami peaked at -8.5, and for the rest of the week there was a slow tumble back to -7. The total hit the betting board at 64.5 and didn't move all week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Tar Heels are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing less than 170 yards passing in their previous game.
* Hurricanes are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games on grass.
* Under is 9-1 in Tar Heels last 10 games after accumulating less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game.
* Home team is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings.

Kansas Jayhawks at No. 8 Baylor Bears (-34.5, 67)

* The loss to TCU was the 14th consecutive conference defeat for the Jayhawks who held the normally potent Horned Frogs offense to just 366 yards while forcing four turnovers, including three interceptions. Sophomore quarterback Ryan Willis, who came off the bench in the first four games behind junior Montell Cozart, made his first start of the season against TCU and completed 31-of-45 passes for 348 yards and also ran 21 yards for a touchdown but was intercepted three times. The Jayhawks had two wide receivers go over the 100-yard mark, LaQuvionte Gonzalez (8 catches for 131 yards) and Steven Sims Jr. (9 catches for 101 yards) while sophomore running back Taylor Martin added 62 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries.

* While not putting up the record-breaking numbers of the past three season, the Bears have nothing to apologize for offensively, rushing for 469 yards in the win at Iowa State -- fifth best for a game in program history -- and ranking 13th in the FBS in scoring with an average of 42.6 points. Quarterback Seth Russell has completed 92-of-155 passes for 1,326 yards and 14 touchdowns while running back Shock Linwood, who had 237 yards and a TD at Iowa State, needs only 84 yards to become the seventh Big 12 rusher with 4,000 career rushing yards. The defense is led by junior defensive end K.J. Smith (28 tackles, 2.5 sacks), linebacker Taylor Young (40 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss) and strong safety Orion Stewart, who had six tackles and a pass breakup at Iowa State.

LINE HISTORY: Baylor opened as massive 34-point home favorites and by the end of the week that line crept even higher up to -34.5. The total opened at 67 and didn't move all week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Jayhawks are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games following a bye week.
* Bears are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up win.
* Under is 6-1 in Jayhawks last 7 games on grass.
* Over is 8-2-1 in Bears last 11 games following a bye week.

No. 19 Virginia Tech Hokies at Syracuse Orange (+19.5, 68)

* The Hokies' pass defense is one of their strengths as the unit ranks second in the nation in yards allowed per game (132.2). Virginia Tech's defense has allowed a point in only three of the last 12 quarters and is giving up 237.6 yards per game, good for third best in the nation. Evans enters the weekend with 15 touchdowns and one interception - the best ratio among FBS quarterbacks - and also is the team's second-leading rusher with 258 yards on the ground.

* The Orange have received solid play from Eric Dungey, who ranks second in the league in passing yards per game (314.3), and wideout Amba Etta-Tawo, who leads the conference in receptions (51). On the other hand, Syracuse ranks last in the league in both scoring defense (36 points) and total defense (475.2 yards). Dungey has five of the team's seven rushing touchdowns, while Dontae Strickland (343 yards) is the Orange's top threat in the running game.

LINE HISTORY: Virginia Tech opened the week as 18.5-point road favorites and, although they peaked at 20.5 on Thursday, they are listed as 19.5-point faves on Friday afternoon. The total started off at 65 and spiked to 68 by the end of the week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Hokies are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
* Orange are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games on fieldturf.
* Under is 5-0 in Hokies last 5 road games
* Under is 4-0 in Orange last 4 games following a straight up loss.

Missouri Tigers at No. 14 Florida Gators (-13.5, 50.5)

* The Tigers boast the SEC’s top passing offense at 350.6 yards per game, as quarterback Drew Lock and receiver J’Mon Moore have developed into one the conference’s most prolific duos. Missouri’s ground game leaves much to be desired, though, and the Tigers will have to prove they can run the ball to keep Florida’s strong pass rush honest. Missouri’s defense has not been as effective as a year ago, but the Tigers have a number of playmakers on that side of the ball, including star defensive end Charles Harris.

* The Gators lean on the SEC’s top scoring defense, as they’ve allowed just 11.6 points per game while proving particularly stingy against the pass (139.8 yards per game). Cornerback Jalen Tabor has accounted for three of Florida’s conference-best eight interceptions. The offense has been inconsistent, but the Gators hope getting quarterback Luke Del Rio back from a knee injury will help solidify the passing game.

LINE HISTORY: The Gators opened at -14.5 before dropping to the current number of -13.5 early in the betting week. The total opened at 48 and currently sits at 50.5. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Tigers are 27-4 ATS in their last 31 games after allowing more than 40 points in their previous game.
* Gators are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home games.
* Under is 7-0 in Tigers last 7 road games.
* Under is 4-1 in Gators last 5 vs. a team with a losing record.

No. 21 Utah Utes at Oregon State Beavers (+7, 40.5)

* The return of Williams, who had 75 yards on 22 carries before quitting after a 20-19 win over BYU in Week 2, could be huge for the Utes who also may get back running back Zack Moss (309 rushing yards). That should ease the pressure on junior quarterback Troy Williams, who has not thrown an interception in three Pac-12 games and has passed for 1,504 yards and seven TDs this season. The defense is led by potential NFL first round pick Lowell Lotulelei at tackle, end Hunter Dimick (5 sacks) and defensive back Marcus Williams (31 tackles, 3 interceptions).

* The Beavers rushed for 474 yards last week en route to a 47-44 overtime upset of Cal which snapped a 12-game conference losing streak. Running back Ryan Nall led the way, rushing for 221 yards on just 14 carries, just the eighth player in school history to rush for more than 200 yards in a game, while quarterback Darell Garretson, who began his career at Utah State, completed 13-of-24 passes for 85 yards and was intercepted twice. The defense held Cal quarterback Davis Webb to only 113 passing yards -- 315.6 yards below his average coming in -- and was led by cornerback Xavier Crawford (10 tackles, 3 pass breakups) and linebacker Caleb Saulo (13 tackles).

LINE HISTORY: Utah opened the betting week as 12-point road favorites and the public wanted nothing to do with that nonsense. Oregon State was bet early on often, forcing the books to steadily move that 12 down all week long - finally settling in at 7 by Friday afternoon. The total opened at 50.5 and dropped a full 10 points to 40.5 by the end of the week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Utes are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 road games.
* Beavers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up win.
* Over is 6-1 in Utes last 7 road games.
* Over is 6-0 in Beavers last 6 games after accumulating less than 170 yards passing in their previous game.

No. 13 Mississippi Rebels at No. 22 Arkansas Razorbacks (+7.5, 67)

* Kelly has passed for 1,596 yards and 13 touchdowns and has connected with standout senior tight end Evan Engram 30 times for 479 yards and four touchdowns. The status of junior outside linebacker DeMarquis Gates (team-best 30 tackles) remains uncertain after he was suspended for a game against Memphis for a violation of team rules and Freeze said earlier this week that "it is totally up to him. He knows exactly what he has to do to be ready to play." Sophomore free safety Zedrick Woods has 29 tackles and a team-best two interceptions while junior defensive end Marquis Haynes has a team-leading three sacks.

* Allen's yardage against Alabama tied for ninth most in Razorbacks history and he has passed for 1,632 yards and a SEC-leading 15 touchdowns against just three interceptions. Sophomore running back Rawleigh Williams III has fueled the rushing attack with 605 yards and five touchdowns while junior wideout Jared Cornelius (19 receptions for a team-best 408 yards) is the third player in school history to string together three consecutive 100-yard receiving outings. Sophomore weak-side linebacker Dre Greenlaw (35 tackles) broke his right foot against Alabama and will be sidelined for more than a month and that leaves senior middle linebacker Brooks Ellis (team-leading 42 tackles) and senior defensive end Deatrich Wise (three sacks) as the top cogs on the defensive unit.

LINE HISTORY: Ole Miss opened the week as seven-point road favorites and by Friday the point spread was up to 7.5. The total hit the board at 65.5 and was bet up to 67 by the end of the week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Rebels are 6-1 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Razorbacks are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
* Under is 9-1 in Rebels last 10 games in October.
* Under is 7-1 in Razorbacks last 8 games following a straight up loss.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane at No. 12 Houston Cougars (-21, 73)

* Brewer has rushed for 434 yards in the past two contests - including a career-best 252 against Fresno State - to raise his season total to 716 yards, while Flanders has rushed for 390 yards and four touchdowns. Senior quarterback Dane Evans has passed for 1,135 yards and nine touchdowns but has been intercepted seven times and has two solid targets in Lucas (36 receptions for 508 yards and five touchdowns) and Atkinson (32 catches for 354 yards and two scores). The defense has been shaky by allowing 81 points over the last two games - both decided in overtime - and the top two players are senior middle linebacker Trent Martin (team-best 35 tackles) and junior linebacker Petera Wilson Jr. (team-leading 3 1/2 sacks).

* Junior quarterback Greg Ward Jr. has passed for 1,684 yards and 11 touchdowns against four interceptions and has produced another 272 yards and six touchdowns on the ground but he accounted for three turnovers - two interceptions and a lost fumble - in the loss to Navy. Ward has two dependable targets in junior receivers Linell Bonner (42 receptions, 556 yards, two TDs) and Steven Dunbar (30, 438, three). The Cougars allowed 306 rushing yards in the loss to Navy after holding their previous seven opponents under 100 and expect to have senior linebacker Steven Taylor (team-leading 5 1/2 sacks) back on the field after he was suspended for the Navy game due to a violation of team policy.

LINE HISTORY: The Houston Cougars opened as 20-point home favorites over the over-matched Tulsa Golden Hurricane. The spread crept up to -21 by the middle of the week and held steady at that number until Friday afternoon. The total opened at 70 and currently sits at 73. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Golden Hurricane are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games.
* Cougars are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games.
* Over is 21-5 in Golden Hurricane last 26 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
* Road team is 5-0 ATS in their last 5 meetings.

Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles at No. 25 Louisiana State Tigers (-24.5, 58)

* The Golden Eagles went into last weekend with one of the top defenses in Conference USA but allowed UTSA to pile up 532 yards, including 339 on the ground. Quarterback Nick Mullens, who threw for 591 yards in a win over Rice on Oct. 1, tried to keep Southern Miss in the game with three TD passes but was also intercepted at the goal line and lost a fumble in last week's setback. One player the Golden Eagles can count on is kicker Parker Shaunfield, who is a perfect 29-of-29 on extra points and 10-of-10 on field-goal attempts.

* The Tigers would have been without star running back Leonard Fournette had the Florida game been played, and he remains questionable with a sprained ankle. The offense looked just fine without Fournette against Missouri on Oct. 1 as Ensminger oversaw an offense that piled up 634 yards - the most ever for the Tigers against an SEC foe. Derrius Guice and Darrel Williams each rushed for three scores in the win and LSU totaled 418 yards on the ground to take some of the pressure off quarterback Danny Etling.

LINE HISTORY: LSU hit the board as 24-point favorites and by Friday afternoon that number was up to -24.5. The total started off at 57 and entered the weekend at 58. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Golden Eagles are 12-1 ATS in their last 13 games after allowing more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
* Tigers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games in October.
* Over is 4-1 in Golden Eagles last 5 games after accumulating more than 280 yards passing in their previous game.
* Under is 5-0 in Tigers last 5 home games.

No. 24 Arizona State Sun Devils at Colorado Buffaloes (-12, 62)

* The Sun Devils bounced back from a 41-20 loss to USC to knock off visiting UCLA 23-20 last week behind a stifling run defense (the Bruins finished with a minus-1 yard rushing). White and Sterling-Cole, however, combined for only 182 yards of total offense and tossed an interception apiece in the contest, so the return of the dual-threat Wilkins (1,233 passing yards, 254 rushing on the season) would obviously be a huge boon. Defensively, Arizona State ranks fifth nationally with 89.3 rushing yards allowed per game, but despite the presence of Pac-12 sacks leader Koron Crump (5.0), the Sun Devils own the FBS’ worst passing defense with 404.3 yards surrendered per outing.

* Despite forcing four turnovers, the Buffaloes fell late to USC (21-17) last week and made their first stay in the top-25 rankings a short one. After accumulating 789 yards of total offense and accounting for seven TDs in back-to-back wins over Oregon and Oregon State, Montez was limited to 223 yards and one score in the game as Colorado was held under 28 points for the first time this season. The Buffaloes, though, have taken great strides on both sides of the ball and rank in the top 25 nationally in both total offense (17th with 504.4 yards per game) and defense (23rd with 331.8 yards).

LINE HISTORY: The unranked Colorado Buffaloes opened as 13-point home faves against the No. 24 Arizona State Sun Devils and on Thursday the books adjusted that number down to -12. The total opened at 62, dropped as low as 60, and returned to the opening number of 62 on Friday afternoon. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Sun Devils are 6-0 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Buffaloes are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games overall.
* Over is 7-1 in Sun Devils last 8 games following a straight up win.
* Sun Devils are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 meetings.

No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes at No. 10 Wisconsin Badgers (+10.5, 44)

* Defense is the calling card for the Badgers, who led the nation in points allowed last season (13.7) and have improved that mark to 12.2 in 2016. They have allowed only five offensive touchdowns in five games, thanks in large part to linebacker T.J. Watt (5.5 sacks) and cornerback Derrick Tindal (three interceptions, five pass breakups). Among the issues for Wisconsin in the loss to Michigan was the play of quarterback Alex Hornibrook (9-of-25, 88 yards, one touchdown, three interceptions) and a rushing attack that averaged 2.5 yards per attempt.

* Where to begin with the Buckeyes, who rank second in the nation in scoring defense (10.8) and third in points per game (53.2). Offensively, quarterback J.T. Barrett enters this one having accounted for 86 career touchdowns - two shy of the school record, held by Braxton Miller - and Mike Weber owns a league-best rushing average of 113.2 yards per game. On the defensive side, Ohio State has not given up a rushing touchdown and has forced 12 turnovers, including 10 interceptions.

LINE HISTORY: The Buckeyes opened the betting week as 10.5-point road favorites and on Friday afternoon that number was the same as the opening figure. The total hit the betting board at 45 and dropped slightly to 44 by the end of the week. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Buckeyes are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall.
* Badgers are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games following a bye week.
* Under is 7-1 in Buckeyes last 8 conference games.
* Under is 7-1 in Badgers last 8 vs. a team with a winning record.
* Under is 6-0-1 in the last 7 meetings in Wisconsin.

Colorado State Rams at No. 15 Boise State Broncos (-28.5, 58.5)

* Junior Nick Stevens has regained the starting quarterback position he lost after a poor season-opening performance but he was solid last season when he passed for 2,679 yards and 21 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. Junior receiver Michael Gallup has 26 catches for 394 yards and three scores while junior running back Dalyn Dawkins has a team-leading 328 rushing yards after rushing for 125 against Utah State. The defense is led by senior weak-side linebacker Kevin Davis, who has a team-leading 58 tackles and was named Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week after recovering a fumble and recording the game-clinching interception against Utah State.

* Rypien has passed for 1,415 yards and 11 touchdowns and junior running back Jeremy McNichols has also stood out with a team-best 558 rushing yards and 12 total touchdowns (nine rushing, three receiving). Sperbeck has 33 receptions for 629 touchdowns and five touchdowns and he has 2,958 career receiving yards, third in school history behind Titus Young (3,063 from 2007-10) and Matt Miller (3,049 from 2011-14). Senior defensive end Sam McCaskill leads the Broncos with 9 1/2 tackles for losses and stands second with five sacks while sophomore nose tackle David Moa also has been superb with a team-best 5 1/2 sacks.

LINE HISTORY: Boise State opened at -29, immediately jumped up to -31, but settled back down to -28.5 by Friday afternoon. The total opened at 58.5 and closed out the week at 58.5. View complete line history here.

TRENDS:

* Rams are 4-0 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Broncos are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games.
* Under is 4-0 in Rams last 4 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
* Under is 8-1 in Broncos last 9 home games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAA Football Predictions: Week 7 Opening Line Report and Picks
by Alan Matthews

So much for a Group of 5 team crashing the College Football Playoff for the first time. Houston was in position to do just that at No. 6 in last week's polls and with already a nice win over Oklahoma, but the Cougars were the biggest losers of Week 6 with a 46-40 defeat against Navy. The Midshipmen turned three Greg Ward Jr. turnovers into 17 points and had 306 yards on the ground against the nation's top-ranked statistical run defense going into the weekend.

Navy also had two passing touchdowns for the first time in a game since it had two against Notre Dame in 2014. It was the Middies' first win over a Top-10 team since 1984. Houston likely won't even make the American Athletic Conference title game now. The Cougars need Navy to lose twice in order to get back into the conference race. That loss also might have made it more likely that Houston coach Tom Herman leaves for LSU (is open), Texas (will be open) or Southern Cal (might be open) this offseason.

The other school that loss hurt the most was No. 7 Louisville as a potential win in Houston on Nov. 17 doesn't mean as much. UH, which dropped to 13th in the AP poll, is also the only ranked team left on U of L's schedule. Cardinals QB Lamar Jackson resumes his Heisman candidacy on Friday night against Duke. Louisville was off in Week 6. Other than Houston, there was no huge upset over the weekend.

Here are a few Week 7 opening lines that caught my eye. Rankings from AP poll and games Saturday unless noted.

No. 1 Alabama at No. 9 Tennessee (+12): UT's luck finally ran out on Saturday as the Vols lost 45-38 in double overtime at No. 8 Texas A&M. That the game was that close was remarkable considering UT had seven turnovers and 12 penalties. The last turnover was a pick of Josh Dobbs that won it for the Aggies. It was Tennessee's third giveaway inside the A&M 10. Those overruled the 684 yards of offense that the Vols put up. So now a loss this week not only ends any shot that Tennessee has at the College Football Playoff, it throws the SEC East wide open. But a UT win gets it right back in the CFP playoff and it would be favored to win every remaining regular-season game ahead of a potential rematch with the Tide in the SEC Championship Game. I thought Alabama would win at No. 16 Arkansas on Saturday but would have to work for it. Not so much as the Tide rolled 49-30. Bama has won the past nine meetings with UT but last year's went down to the wire. The pick: Tennessee (to cover not win).

North Carolina at No. 16 Miami (-7): The loser here is all but out of the ACC Coastal Division race as it would be the second conference loss for said team and Virginia Tech is unbeaten in the division. The Hokies laid a beatdown on the then-No. 17 Tar Heels on Saturday, 34-3. When UNC trails by double digits at the half under Larry Fedora, it is now 0-13. North Carolina finished with 131 yards, with QB Mitch Trubisky throwing his first two interceptions of the year That game was played in hurricane conditions. Miami lost a thriller to Florida State 20-19 when the potential tying extra point was blocked with under two minutes left. UM coach Mark Richt just can't get on the right side of this rivalry. He was Florida State's offensive coordinator many years ago when the Noles lost on Wide Right I and Wide Right II to the Hurricanes. UM QB Brad Kaaya had a molar knocked out of his mouth in that loss and also injured his shoulder. He will be limited this week but is expected to play. The Canes did suffer another loss on Monday that will hurt them down the road as receiver Sam Bruce was kicked off the team. He was the top recruit in this year's class but was redshirting. Bruce was booted for multiple violations of team rules. The pick: Miami as long as Kaaya does play.

Stanford at Notre Dame (-3): Has this game lost all of its luster or what? The Cardinal followed a Week 5 blowout loss at Washington with a 42-16 home whitewashing on Saturday against Washington State to fall out of the polls. So there's pretty much no chance of the Cardinal winning the Pac-12 North Division again. It was Wazzu's first win over a Top-15 team in 13 years. In addition, Stanford running back and former Heisman Trophy candidate Christian McCaffrey went to the locker room in the second half with an injury and didn't return to the game. So monitor his status this week, although Coach David Shaw seemed to indicate he could have re-entered the game against the Cougars but that there was no point in letting him. I couldn't believe that Notre Dame was an underdog last week at NC State but the Irish managed to lose in a monsoon thanks to Hurricane Matthew, 10-3, to drop to 2-4. There were 10 fumbles in that game as it clearly shouldn't have been played. The Irish had 113 yards of offense. Most believe that Irish coach Brian Kelly is safe for now but that he will enter next season on the hottest seat in college football. The pick: Notre Dame.

No. 2 Ohio State at No. 8 Wisconsin (+10.5): ESPN College GameDay will be in Madison, the first time in five years. The Buckeyes might have been looking ahead to this game on Saturday as they were a bit sluggish before pulling away for a 38-17 win over Indiana. OSU had only 93 passing yards but ran for 290 yards and won its fifth consecutive game by 20 points or more, the longest active streak in FBS. Quarterback J.T. Barrett accounted for two touchdowns (one rush, one pass) to move past Art Schlichter for second place on the school's all-time list for touchdown responsibility. Barrett is two behind Braxton Miller's 88. Wisconsin has allowed seven touchdowns all season, and it's the only top-45 defense that Ohio State's faced. The Badgers were off last week. These schools haven't played since the 2014 Big Ten title game, won by OSU 59-0. The pick: Ohio State.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Big 10 Showdown'

Ohio State Buckeyes at Wisconsin Badgers October 15, 8:00 EST

Ohio State (5-0 SU, 4-1 ATS) has had its way with Wisconsin Badgers (4-1 SU/ATS) winning six of seven both SU and against the betting line including a 59-zip thrashing in 2014 the last time they met. However, 'Buyer Beware', Wisky unlikely to pull off an outright upset but with its styfling defense allowing 12.2 points/game along with an extra week to prepare could easily keep this one within the 11.0 points. Good spot for Wisconsin. The Badgers thrive with extra rest posting a 14-3 record against the betting line following a bye week. Additionally, Badgers have a profitable 8-3 record against the oddsmakers as home underdogs including 3-1 ATS hosting Buckeyes.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAF

Saturday’s best 13 games

Minnesota QB Leidner is out here, big loss for Gophers, who lost last two games by total of 10 points- they were only 13-33 passing vs Iowa LW, even with Leidner. Gophers are 9-3 vs spread in last 12 games as a road underdog- they lost 29-26 at Penn State in only road game so far. Maryland gave up 372 rushing yards in 38-14 loss at Penn State LW; Terrapins are 8-6 in last 14 games as a home favorite. Home favorites are 3-7 vs spread in Big 14 conference games.

Miami lost to rival Florida State LW, has to bounce back here vs North Carolina squad that got crushed 34-3 at home by Va Tech LW, week after they had upset the Seminoles. Tar Heels had just 58 PY on a wet day LW after having 1,320 PY in previous three games. Hurricanes lost 59-21 in Chapel Hill LY, just second loss in last six games vs Tar Heels, who are 2-3 in their last five visits here. Carolina is 5-3 in its last eight games as a road underdog; Miami is 8-4-1 in its last 13 games as a home favorite. ACC home favorites are 4-6 against the spread.

Michigan State lost its last three games, scoring 13.7 pts/game, its first 3-game skid since ’09- two of the three losses were at home. Northwestern covered its last six visits to East Lansing, with four SU wins. Spartans won five of last six series games, covering four of them. Spartans gave up 260 RY to BYU LW; they’re 3-6 in last nine games as a home favorite, 0-2 this year. Northwestern had LW off after its upset win at Iowa; Wildcats are 7-3 in their last ten games as a road underdog.

Oklahoma gave up 86 points in its last two games but won both, scoring 52-45 at TCU and vs Texas in Dallas. UL-Monroe is only team Sooners have held under 410 TY. OU is 6-7 in its last 13 games as a home favorite- they’re -6 in turnovers this year, but have run ball for 542 yards* as they try to keep that defense off field. Home side lost last five Kansas State-Oklahoma games; Wildcats won 31-30/24-19 in last two visits to Norman. Underdogs are 4-2 vs spread in last six series games. K-State is 14-6 vs spread in its last 20 games as a road underdog.

Nebraska accused Indiana of trying to steal defensive signals this week; 5-0 Cornhuskers are scoring 37 pts/game; they had LW off- they’re 4-2 in last six games as a road favorite, 1-0 this year. Indiana lost two of last three games; they were held to 281 LY at Ohio State LW, first time in five games they were held under 436 TY. Hoosiers are 7-4 in its last 11 games as a home underdog, 1-0 this year. Big 14 home underdogs are 3-2 vs spread so far this season. These teams haven’t met in last 20 years. Huskers won only road game 24-13 at Northwestern.

First road game for West Virginia squad that had LW off and won its last two games by total of four points, vs BYU/K-State. Mountaineers are 3-6 vs spread in last nine games where spread was 3 or less points; Texas Tech is 4-7 under Kingsbury in such games. Tech allowed 231+ YR in three of last four games. giving up 52.3 pts/game in those three games. Dogs covered three of four West Virginia-Texas Tech games; Mountaineers beat Tech last two years, 31-26/37-34 after losing to Red Raiders the two years before that. WV ran ball for 549 yards in last two series games.

Tennessee is playing an NFL-like schedule: Florida-Georgia-A&M, now Alabama on four consecutive weekends- is it too much? Vols are playing well, rallying from behind each week, winning all but LW’s OT loss at A&M. Alabama won its last nine games with Tennessee (6-3 vs spread, but 0-2 last two years); they won last four visits here, all by 14+ points (3-1 vs spread). Five of Bama’s last six series wins were by 14+ points. Crimson Tide scored 44.8 pts/game in its six wins; they have allowed 73 points in two true road games, 49-34 at Ole Miss, 49-30 last week at Arkansas. SEC home underdogs are 6-2 against the spread.

Arkansas is already 0-2 in SEC, giving up 94 points, 630 rushing yards in losing to Texas A&M (45-24), Alabama (49-30). Hogs are 4-5 as home underdogs under Bielema. Ole Miss scored 93 points in winning its last two games; they allowed 45-48 in their two losses. Rebels are 5-6 as road favorites under Freeze; this is their first true road game this year (played FSU in Orlando). Underdogs covered last five Ole Miss-Arkansas games; Hogs (+10) beat Ole Miss 53-52 in OT LY. Rebels lost five of last seven visits here, with dogs covering three of last four. SEC home underdogs are 6-2 against the spread.

Western Kentucky is 2-7 as a road underdog since Taggart left WKU; Hilltoppers lost two of last three games, losing 31-30 at home to Vandy, 55-52 at La Tech. Middle Tennessee won five of last seven games with Western Kentucky, with average total in last four meetings, 78.8. Four of last five series games were decided by 5 or less points. WKU split their last four visits here. MTSU scored 36.3 pts/game in winning its last three games; they had LW off. Blue Raiders are 9-8-1 in last 18 games as a home favorite. Underdogs are 8-5 vs spread in C-USA games, 4-3 on the road.

Stanford was outscored 86-22 by the Washington schools in losing its last two games; 90 yards on 56 rushes in those games is a red flag. Cardinal allowed 13 or less points in its three wins; they won five of last seven games with Notre Dame; underdogs are 3-0-1 vs spread in last four meetings. Irish had allowed 489+ TY in three straight games before losing 10-3 in quagmire at NC State LW; ND is 2-4, losing last two home games, to Michigan State, Duke. Notre Dame is 14-16-3 as home favorites under Kelly. Cardinal lost eight of last nine visits to South Bend (favorites 5-3-1 vs spread), losing 17-14/20-13 in last two visits there.

Ohio State won its first five games by 21+ points each (4-1 vs spread); they’ve run ball for 268+ yards in every game. Wisconsin had last week off after tough 14-7 loss to Michigan; Badgers are home underdog here for first time in six years. Buckeyes (-2) won only road game 45-24 at Oklahoma; they’re 8-6 as a road favorite under Meyer. Underdogs won four of last five Ohio State-Wisconsin games SU; Buckeyes won seven of last eight series games, winning last one 59-0 in Big 14 title game in 2014. Underdogs are 4-1 vs spread in last five series games here; Ohio State is 4-2 in last six visits here.

UCLA QB Rosen was knocked out of LW’s game at Arizona State twice; since 2008, Bruins are 11-21 as a road underdog, 0-3 the last three years. UCLA is 1-3 this season when scoring less than 42 points. Washington State scored 93 points in winning its first two Pac-12 games, after an 0-2 start that included a loss to a I-AA team; Coogs outgunned Stanford 458-296 LW. Wazzu snapped 5-game skid vs UCLA LY, but Bruins won three of last four visits here, winning 44-36/43-7 in last two trips to Pullman. Underdogs covered last four series games; Coogs passed for 845 yards in last two series games.

USC is 3-0 at home, 0-3 away from home; they allowed 7-20-17 points in their wins, 52-27-31 in losses. Trojans are 4-10 in last 14 games as a road favorite. Arizona allowed 38.7 pts/game in losing its last three games; Wildcats allowed 415+ TY in every game this season. Arizona is 6-2 as a home underdog under RichRod. Underdogs covered 10 of last 11 USC-Arizona games; Trojans are 12-2 in last 14 series games, winning last three by 8-2-7 points. USC won six of last seven visits to Tucson, with last three all decided by 3 or less points. Underdogs covered last five series games played here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAA Football Betting Odds: Week 7 Line Movements & Last-Minute News
by Alan Matthews

In Monday's Opening Line Report story , I led with the quandary that the SEC was in while trying to reschedule last week's Hurricane Matthew-postponed LSU at Florida matchup. Nov. 19 always looked like the date it would be played, but LSU athletic director Joe Alleva basically drew a line in the sand to the SEC leadership and said there was no way that his school was giving up a home game that day for financial reasons. And, to be fair, flood-ravaged Baton Rouge does need all the money it can get. Amazingly, the SEC blinked, and Florida's chances of winning the East Division for a second straight season took a big hit.

The schools will indeed play Nov. 19, with LSU buying out scheduled opponent South Alabama and Florida doing the same vs. against Presbyterian. What's interesting is that the game will now be played in Baton Rouge. What Florida got in return is LSU agreeing not to schedule the kickoff later than 3:30 p.m. ET -- winning at night in Death Valley is incredibly tough to do -- and the Tigers will visit Gainesville next year. Well, the next two years as the 2018 game was already scheduled there.

Entering this weekend, Florida is tied with Tennessee in the SEC East with a 2-1 conference record, but the Vols own the tiebreaker. I would have given Florida a good shot of beating LSU last week at home but much less of one now on Nov. 19. So even if the Vols lose Saturday vs. No. 1 Alabama, as I expect, they could still be in great shape to play in the SEC title game. It's a huge win for LSU as it wasn't going to have an injured Leonard Fournette last week vs. Florida and gets to keep its bye week ahead of the annual showdown at Alabama on the first Saturday of November. The Tigers are just a game in the loss column out of the West Division lead, and this increases their chances of winning it, although I'm not confident that happens.

LSU hosts Southern Miss as a 25-point favorite this week, and Fournette is expected out again. Florida (-13.5) hosts Missouri and will get back starting quarterback Luke Del Rio after he missed the previous two games. Here are some news, notes and any major line moves for some of Saturday's games around the country, in no particular order.

Arizona State at Colorado (-13, 60.5): Big questions at quarterback for ASU entering this important Pac-12 South game. Starter Manny Wilkins missed last week's 23-20 win over UCLA with a leg injury. Backup Brady White started and played well but also suffered a season-ending foot injury. Coach Todd Graham thinks Wilkins will play but perhaps not the entire game. Freshman Dillon Sterling-Cole is next up on the depth chart. By the way, ASU's Zane Gonzalez kicked three field goals against UCLA to become the FBS all-time leader with 89. Florida State's Dustin Hopkins had held the mark of 88. ASU, Colorado and Utah are all atop the Pac-12 South with 2-1 records. The Buffs' schedule the rest of the way is easier, but Utah still plays both.

Kansas at No. 11 Baylor (-35, 67): This is the biggest spread on the board Saturday, to little surprise. Possible trap game for the unbeaten Bears not only off a bye week but with another up next and then the schedule getting much harder. BU has won the last six against Kansas by an average of 37.7 points and boasts a 7-0 record in Waco in the series. So the Bears don't need top receiver KD Cannon back from injury this week, but it's looking like he might be. Cannon has 27 catches for 370 yards and four touchdowns in his four games but missed the last one and was also hampered the one before that due to a groin injury.

Minnesota at Maryland (-6.5, 49.5): This line has grown 2.5 points, and I think I know why: Gophers starting QB Mitch Leidner, a guy NFL scouts like, has been ruled out with a concussion. He was hurt in last week's loss to Iowa but played through it, apparently not showing symptoms until in the locker room after the game. Redshirt junior Conor Rhoda, a former walk-on, is in line to start. He has attempted just two passes in his college career. Rhoda beat out Demry Croft, last year's backup, during training camp to earn the No. 2 job. The Gophers are hoping to redshirt Croft.

UCLA at Washington State (-7, TBA): This line has risen four points and there's no total yet because of the status of Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen. He twice left last week's loss at Arizona State with separate injuries. Former walk-on Mike Fafaul was inserted into the game both times and would start Saturday. The fifth-year senior was 3 of 11 for 44 yards with two interceptions and no touchdowns vs. ASU. Coach Jim Mora said the offense wouldn't be simplified for Fafaul, but I don't buy that. The Bruins have several other players listed as questionable, so I love Wazzu here. A loss all but ends UCLA's Pac-12 South hopes. The Cougars have won three straight this season by a combined score of 149-55.

No. 20 West Virginia at Texas Tech (pick'em, 83): This has the smallest spread on the board (obviously) and the largest total. Has any unbeaten Power 5 team gotten less publicity than WVU? The Mountaineers come off their bye and have been fortunate to win their past two games, edging BYU by a field goal and Kansas State by 1. This is West Virginia's first true road game. It has had one of the best defenses in the Big 12 thus far but hasn't seen an offense anything close to TTU's. Led by QB Patrick Mahomes, the Red Raiders are No. 1 nationally in passing and No. 2 in total yards and scoring. Texas Tech has scored at least 52 points in every home game under Mahomes since he became the starter. West Virginia will have a new kicker after Josh Lambert left the team this week. In 2014, Lambert kicked a 55-yard field goal as time expired to beat the Red Raiders 37-34 in Lubbock. He had an NCAA record with 16 field goals of 40 or more yards that year and ranked No. 2 in the nation in scoring. Lambert had kicked in just one game this year due to suspension.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'CFB: Tigers put 6-0 record on the line'

NC State at Clemson October 15, 12:00 EST

Tigers are 6-0, (4-2 ATS) out the gate after dismantling Boston College 56-10 cashing as 17.5 point road favorites. In that last effort, QB Deshaun Watson struck for four touchdowns, 270 yards while RB Wayne Gallman piled up 109 yards on the ground with one major. Wolfpack, on a fourth quarter blocked punt picked up by Dexter Wright returning it for a touchdown won a 10-3 defensive battle against Notre Dame last week moving the record to 4-1 SU/ATS on the campaign.

Despite a 1-11 SU record last twelve meetings, Wolfpack are viable road dogs as they were 6-6 against the betting line in those games. Additionally, Wolfpack have thrived away from Carter Finley Stadium handed 15 or more points of offense compiling a profitable 8-2 record against the spread including a perfect 4-0 at Clemson Memorial Stadium.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey

Three-year-old fillies take center stage in the feature races at both Belmont Park and Keeneland on Saturday.

At Keeneland Catch a Glimpse will look to get back to her winning ways in the $500,000 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1).

She won her first eight career starts on turf but was upset by Time and Motion last out in the Lake Placid (G2) at Saratoga. The two will meet up again and a strong performance would send the duo to the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1).

At Belmont Park a field of 12 along with a pair of also-eligibles were entered in the $200,000 Pebbles. The race likely will not have an impact on the Filly & Mare Turf but sure is a good betting race.

Trainer Chad Brown sends out a pair of contenders including my top pick Ancient Secret, who lost for the first time last out when she was shipped to Woodbine for the Ontario Cotillion (G3) where she faded to finish a well beaten seventh.

She won her first four career starts including taking the Lake George (G2) at the Spa on July 22.


Here is the opening race from Keeneland to get the day off to a good start:

KEE Race 1 Md $50,000 (1:05 ET)
#4 Uncle James 7-2
#6 Marine Pilot 3-1
#5 Singleton 8-5
#3 Pressing Luck 3-1

Analysis: Uncle James stalked the early pace and came with a good five wide run to rally for third last out going six furlongs on the main track at Churchill Downs for this tag. He makes his third start of his current form cycle and the extra furlong here should suit him. He is out of a Fly So Free mare that has dropped four other foals to race, all winners. Looks like a good spot here for the Catalano barn that went 0 for 13 at the spring meeting here.

Marine Pilot stalked the early pace, made a good middle move to get to the front and did not have enough punch left late, weakening to finish third when dropping back in for a tag. He cuts back to seven furlongs here and ran well at Ellis Park three back at the distance, beaten just a neck against maiden special weight foes. A repeat of that effort makes him a threat in this spot.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 4,6 / 4,5,6
TRI: no play

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:

BEL Race 8 The Pebbles (4:46 ET)
#4 Ancient Secret 3-1
#5 Ultra Brat 12-1
#2 Believe in Bertie 10-1
#9 Stella Rose 5-1

Analysis: Ancient Secret is one of two in here sent out by the Brown barn. The filly started her career winning her first starts including a sharp win in the Lake George (G2) at the Spa in July. She shipped to Canada for the Ontario Cotillion where she was sent off as the chalk but was never a threat in a seventh place finish. She comes back here fairly quick which looks like a good sign. Brown won this race last year with Partisan Politics.

Ultra Brat made her turf debut a winning one last out taking the Christiecat at six furlongs over the turf here. She stretches out to a mile here for the Motion barn and has enough pedigree to handle the extra ground. She is by Uncle Mo out of a Storm Cat mare that has dropped five other winners including three turf winners, top earner stakes winner It’s Tea Time ($470,226).

Believe in Bertie prompted the early pace, took over the lead and could not match strides with the winner in the stretch in a runner up finish in the Indiana Grand last out. She broke her maiden at the Spa last summer in her debut going long on turf and has a stakes win against Louisiana breds two back at a mile. She looks headed in the right direction for the Cox barn that has been sending out live runners at the meeting, winning with five of his first 11 starters with 10 of the 11 landing in the money.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 4,5 / 2,4,5,9
TRI: 4,5 / 2,4,5,9 / 2,4,5,9,12

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Keeneland:

KEE Race 9 The QEII Challenge Cup G1 (5:30 ET)
#2 On Leave 5-1
#1 Catch a Glimpse 2-1
#5 Hawksmoor 6-1
#7 Time and Motion 5-2

Analysis: On Leave took the field gate to wire to win the Sands Point (G2) last out at Belmont Park for her fourth win in a row and she showed a new dimension as her three previous wins were coming from off the pace. She is getting really good right now and may end up getting overlooked on the tote here. She likely will return to a tracking role here and another move forward and she can pull off the upset in this spot.

Catch a Glimpse suffered her first career loss on turf last out when she got run down late by Time and Motion in the lake Placid (G2) at the Spa. She is perfect in two starts over the turf here, winning the Breeders' Cup Fillies Turf (G1) here last fall and won the Appalachian (G3) here at the spring meeting. She comes in here off back to back career tops and was giving up four pounds to the filly that beat her last out and they are even weights here. She will be tough but seems likely to be less than her 2-1 morning line.

Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 1,2 / 1,2,5,7
TRI: 1,2 / 1,2,5,7 / 1,2,5,6,7

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Belmont Park
R4: #8 Gait to Heaven 12-1
R5: #2 Zartax 8-1
R6: #2 Plainview 10-1
R7: #4 Easy Way Out 8-1
R8: #5 Ultra Brat 12-1
R8: #2 Believe in Bertie 10-1
R9: #4 Crafty Colonel 12-1
R9: #5 Gear Jammer 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at North Side Downs

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 1 - Post: 1:00 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 54 - Purse:$725 - NON WINNERS 1, 2 AND 3 PARI-MUTUEL RACES LIFE HDCP.
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 6 LAST LAUGH 5/2
# 8 CAMCO TYLER 5/1
# 2 WOODMERE INTREPID 7/2

If you want a really strong play this time, feast your eyes on LAST LAUGH. The handicapping group knows that speed is the key in harness racing. This solid standardbred will unlock our way to a nice win. With a really strong 58 TrackMaster SR last time out, will surely be a factor in this affair. CAMCO TYLER - Can't ignore based on TrackMaster Speed Ratings which have been outstanding (56 avg) these days. WOODMERE INTREPID - Could beat this group of animals, just look at the speed figure - 59 - from his most recent effort. Tough to pass on this gelding with cagey Kelly in the sulky. Major player for the ultimate prize.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero Race Track

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 2 - Allowance - 6.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $11050 Class Rating: 77

FOR TWO YEAR OLDS. WEIGHT, 117 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 4 NOBLE QUEST 1/1

# 2 REMEMBER WILLY 3/1

# 3 SIDNEY'S PROSPECT 15/1

I have to consider NOBLE QUEST here. This colt is a contender based on his earnings per start in dirt sprint events. He has strong class ratings, averaging 80, and has to be considered for this event. Tough to pass on this colt with Hernandezsanch in the saddle. REMEMBER WILLY - Looks respectable to be up near the front end at the first call. Ought to be used in the exotic wagers.