PREDICTION MACHINE SIDES
Rot Time (ET) Pick Opp Line Margin Pick%
342 12:00 PM @ DUKE VATECH -5.5 13.9 58.7
399 8:00 PM MSU @ MD -12 17.7 58.4
392 7:00 PM @ UL-MON UL-LAF 7.5 -1.7 57.3
385 5:00 PM TROY @ IDAHO 5.5 2.7 57
396 3:30 PM @ ALA MISSST -8.5 12.6 56.9
390 3:30 PM @ TULANE MEM 10.5 -5.1 56.8
335 4:00 PM KTY @ TENN 8.5 -4.3 56.7
319 12:30 PM PITT @ UNC 2 6.2 56.6
397 7:30 PM TEX @ OKST -2.5 8.2 56.5
370 12:00 PM @ FLA SC -6.5 10.9 56.5
346 8:00 PM @ SMU SOFLA 11 -5.5 56.2
388 7:30 PM @ TEXA&M MIZZOU -4.5 8.3 56
339 12:00 PM CLEM @ GATECH -3 10.1 56
338 3:30 PM @ RUT IND -7.5 11.2 55.8
372 8:00 PM @ MIA-FL FLAST 2 4.6 55.6
354 7:00 PM @ BYU UNLV -24 29.8 55.4
402 10:00 PM @ UTEP NORTX -6.5 10 55.3
334 3:30 PM @ WISC NEB -5.5 9.1 55.3
Rot Time (ET) Pick Opp Line Margin Pick%
342 12:00 PM @ DUKE VATECH -5.5 13.9 58.7
399 8:00 PM MSU @ MD -12 17.7 58.4
392 7:00 PM @ UL-MON UL-LAF 7.5 -1.7 57.3
385 5:00 PM TROY @ IDAHO 5.5 2.7 57
396 3:30 PM @ ALA MISSST -8.5 12.6 56.9
390 3:30 PM @ TULANE MEM 10.5 -5.1 56.8
335 4:00 PM KTY @ TENN 8.5 -4.3 56.7
319 12:30 PM PITT @ UNC 2 6.2 56.6
397 7:30 PM TEX @ OKST -2.5 8.2 56.5
370 12:00 PM @ FLA SC -6.5 10.9 56.5
346 8:00 PM @ SMU SOFLA 11 -5.5 56.2
388 7:30 PM @ TEXA&M MIZZOU -4.5 8.3 56
339 12:00 PM CLEM @ GATECH -3 10.1 56
338 3:30 PM @ RUT IND -7.5 11.2 55.8
372 8:00 PM @ MIA-FL FLAST 2 4.6 55.6
354 7:00 PM @ BYU UNLV -24 29.8 55.4
402 10:00 PM @ UTEP NORTX -6.5 10 55.3
334 3:30 PM @ WISC NEB -5.5 9.1 55.3
PREDICTION MACHINE Totals
Home Rot Time (ET) Matchup Line Total Points Pick Pick%
346 8:00 PM SOFLA @ SMU 48 59.7 Over 61.3
348 7:30 PM TXST @ USA 50 60.2 Over 61
338 3:30 PM IND @ RUT 55.5 46.9 Under 60.8
364 8:00 PM LSU @ ARK 47.5 54.3 Over 60.3
386 5:00 PM TROY @ IDAHO 65 76.8 Over 59.8
388 7:30 PM MIZZOU @ TEXA&M 59 52.8 Under 58.3
372 8:00 PM FLAST @ MIA-FL 62 53.7 Under 56.3
368 7:15 PM AUBURN @ UGA 68.5 74.5 Over 56.3
326 12:00 PM OHIOST @ MINN 57.5 52.7 Under 56.1
342 12:00 PM VATECH @ DUKE 46.5 52.7 Over 55.7
322 3:00 PM WAKE @ NCSU 47 41.7 Under 55.5
Home Rot Time (ET) Matchup Line Total Points Pick Pick%
346 8:00 PM SOFLA @ SMU 48 59.7 Over 61.3
348 7:30 PM TXST @ USA 50 60.2 Over 61
338 3:30 PM IND @ RUT 55.5 46.9 Under 60.8
364 8:00 PM LSU @ ARK 47.5 54.3 Over 60.3
386 5:00 PM TROY @ IDAHO 65 76.8 Over 59.8
388 7:30 PM MIZZOU @ TEXA&M 59 52.8 Under 58.3
372 8:00 PM FLAST @ MIA-FL 62 53.7 Under 56.3
368 7:15 PM AUBURN @ UGA 68.5 74.5 Over 56.3
326 12:00 PM OHIOST @ MINN 57.5 52.7 Under 56.1
342 12:00 PM VATECH @ DUKE 46.5 52.7 Over 55.7
322 3:00 PM WAKE @ NCSU 47 41.7 Under 55.5
| [h=2]- The Root Trust--FOOTBALL -[/h] |
MILLIONAIRES---ALABAMA NO LIMIT CLUB--MARYLAND PERFECT PLAY---ARKANSAS SEC GAME OF THE MONTH I say it's not going to happen!! LSU let Alabama off the hook last Saturday in a thrilling overtime game that saw the 5th ranked Crimson Tide escape with a 20-13 win over the Tigers. LSU must quickly shake off the loss as they get set for this weekend’s game against the Razorbacks of Arkansas. They are done. Arkansas has a great chance to finally get a SEC win and it's been a long time coming. They have really improved week after week so look for an easy win if there is such a thing in the SEC West. Finally the Razorbacks break through in SEC win column and this will end a 2 plus season drought for Arkansas in SEC play. Tough spot for young LSU team as the emotional home loss against highly ranked Bama took to much out of them. LSU defense will keep the Tigers in this game but Arkansas great power running game wears down LSU late. TAKE ARKANSAS __________________________ INNER CIRCLE---OKLAHOMA STATE CONFERENCE SHOCKER OF THE YEAR For Oklahoma St, this will be an important chance to turn around their record and stay on track for some post season bowl appearance. They will have an opportunity to play Texas at Boone Pickens Stadium. The Cowboys are 5-4 during their games, including 3-3 in conference play. All of their losses have come against ranked teams, but they need to capitalize on this opportunity. They are getting around 235 passing yards each game, helping them stay efficient on offense. This is joined by an average of over 151 rushing yards as well. The Longhorns will have to find a complete game if they want to continue winning this year. The Longhorns had a convincing win against West Virginia, building a score of 33-16 in the process. This young confused Texas team is improving but not to the degree to lay points on the road. OSU has two ways to win and or cover this spread. TAKE OKLAHOMA ST. ___________________________ PINNACLE--MIAMI NCAA UNDERDOG OF THE YEAR The public continue to pound Florida St and Famous Jameis. The sharps continue to collect week after week as Florida St has covered the spread just two times this season. The Seminoles are on a quest for back to back national championships and have won 25 straight games in the process. Florida State has not been dominant this season, but are making just enough plays behind Heisman Trophy QB Jameis Winston to win but not cover. Our type of guy!! The Miami Hurricanes would love nothing more than to spoil Florida State’s perfect season at home on Saturday night. Miami is on a three game winning streak that includes wins over Cincinnati, Virginia Tech, and North Carolina. The Hurricanes are well rested and coming off a bye. Look for RB Duke Johnson to dominate with a capital D for the Hurricanes. Miami ranks 11th in total defense, 10th in passing defense, and allows an average of 21.9 points per game. Famous Jameis may not be able to make that all to often 2nd half comeback. Miami is in a really good position to pull the upset. Florida State has issues in the running game and they turn the ball over too much. TAKE MIAMI |
EZWINNERS
EZ's Plays For Saturday
Five college football plays on my card for Saturday. Best of luck!
-EZ
4* (368) Georgia Bulldogs -$135
Auburn had their national championship playoff bubble burst last week with their home loss to Texas A&M and now they must hit the road to face a Georgia team that will welcome running back Todd Gurley back to the field. The Bulldogs now have quite a 1-2 punch at running back as Gurley's replacement 228 pound Nick Chubb rushed for 671 yards while Gurley was sidelined. The Bulldogs will be seeking revenge for Auburn's last second win that came on a 73 yard tipped touchdown pass on 4th and 18. The Tigers luck seems to finally have run out. After a huge run against the spread last season, Auburn is just 2-5 against the spread in their last seven games. Lay the points.
4* (387) Missouri Tigers +4
Texas A&M pulled off a shocker last week at Auburn, but I will gladly fade them this week. The Aggies have to be feeling real good about themselves after the huge win last week, but there are still issues in College State. The Aggie defense allowed 582 yards in the win last week and Auburn made some key mistakes to set A&M up for some easy scores. Missouri is looking good in the SEC East and this Tigers team has won seven straight true road games and are 9-1 against the spread in their last ten games away from home. Coming into College Station should not be an issue for this team of road warriors and I will take any points that Vegas wants to give me. Play on Missouri.
3* (341) Virginia Tech Hokies +4
I think this is a great spot for Virginia Tech. The Hokies come into this game off of a bye week seeking revenge for last years defeat at the hands of the Blue Devils. These are also unusual roles for these two teams in this matchup as Duke is the favorite after being a double digit underdog in the last ten meetings between these two teams in ACC play. The Hokies always find a way to get head coach Frank Beamer to a bowl game and an upset win here would go a long way to helping that cause. Duke is having a great season with only one loss but they have not been dominate and have actually lost the stat battle (they are outgained by an average of over 100 yards in ACC play) in most of their wins. Take the points.
3* (395) Mississippi State Bulldogs +10
Many people don't view Mississippi State to be the best team in the nation and they expect the Tide to Roll right through the Bulldogs, but I don't think that will be the case. Alabama was very lucky to escape Death Valley last Saturday night with an overtime win in a game that had to take its toll. The Bulldogs had a scrimmage last week as they tuned up for this huge game. Similar foes are not always a true indication of things, but you can't overlook that fact that the Bulldog's offense gained 572 total yards at LSU. Mississippi State is also on a 10-4 run against the spread and have covered five straight as an underdog. Let's also not forget Alabama's field goal kicking issues. Take the points.
3* (371) Florida State Seminoles -$140
Most of the experts are picking Florida State to finally lose a game this week in Miami. As much as I would love to personally see that happen I'm not buying it. Florida State is no where near the team that they were last season, but they keep finding ways to win. FSU has been horrible against the spread this season and have started off most of their games very slowly. With this being the last big road block from another undefeated season I still believe that the Seminoles win this game. Miami has been able to run the ball with a lot of success lately, but the strength of the Florida State defense has against the run. This is a big stage for Miami and I don't believe they are ready to take the next step. Play on the Noles.
EZ's Plays For Saturday
Five college football plays on my card for Saturday. Best of luck!
-EZ
4* (368) Georgia Bulldogs -$135
Auburn had their national championship playoff bubble burst last week with their home loss to Texas A&M and now they must hit the road to face a Georgia team that will welcome running back Todd Gurley back to the field. The Bulldogs now have quite a 1-2 punch at running back as Gurley's replacement 228 pound Nick Chubb rushed for 671 yards while Gurley was sidelined. The Bulldogs will be seeking revenge for Auburn's last second win that came on a 73 yard tipped touchdown pass on 4th and 18. The Tigers luck seems to finally have run out. After a huge run against the spread last season, Auburn is just 2-5 against the spread in their last seven games. Lay the points.
4* (387) Missouri Tigers +4
Texas A&M pulled off a shocker last week at Auburn, but I will gladly fade them this week. The Aggies have to be feeling real good about themselves after the huge win last week, but there are still issues in College State. The Aggie defense allowed 582 yards in the win last week and Auburn made some key mistakes to set A&M up for some easy scores. Missouri is looking good in the SEC East and this Tigers team has won seven straight true road games and are 9-1 against the spread in their last ten games away from home. Coming into College Station should not be an issue for this team of road warriors and I will take any points that Vegas wants to give me. Play on Missouri.
3* (341) Virginia Tech Hokies +4
I think this is a great spot for Virginia Tech. The Hokies come into this game off of a bye week seeking revenge for last years defeat at the hands of the Blue Devils. These are also unusual roles for these two teams in this matchup as Duke is the favorite after being a double digit underdog in the last ten meetings between these two teams in ACC play. The Hokies always find a way to get head coach Frank Beamer to a bowl game and an upset win here would go a long way to helping that cause. Duke is having a great season with only one loss but they have not been dominate and have actually lost the stat battle (they are outgained by an average of over 100 yards in ACC play) in most of their wins. Take the points.
3* (395) Mississippi State Bulldogs +10
Many people don't view Mississippi State to be the best team in the nation and they expect the Tide to Roll right through the Bulldogs, but I don't think that will be the case. Alabama was very lucky to escape Death Valley last Saturday night with an overtime win in a game that had to take its toll. The Bulldogs had a scrimmage last week as they tuned up for this huge game. Similar foes are not always a true indication of things, but you can't overlook that fact that the Bulldog's offense gained 572 total yards at LSU. Mississippi State is also on a 10-4 run against the spread and have covered five straight as an underdog. Let's also not forget Alabama's field goal kicking issues. Take the points.
3* (371) Florida State Seminoles -$140
Most of the experts are picking Florida State to finally lose a game this week in Miami. As much as I would love to personally see that happen I'm not buying it. Florida State is no where near the team that they were last season, but they keep finding ways to win. FSU has been horrible against the spread this season and have started off most of their games very slowly. With this being the last big road block from another undefeated season I still believe that the Seminoles win this game. Miami has been able to run the ball with a lot of success lately, but the strength of the Florida State defense has against the run. This is a big stage for Miami and I don't believe they are ready to take the next step. Play on the Noles.
StatFox Super Situations
NBA | MINNESOTA at DALLAS
Play On - Underdogs of 10 or more points (MINNESOTA) poor defensive team - shooting pct defense of >=46% on the season, good rebounding team - outrebounding opponents by 3+ per game
29-8 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.4% | 20.2 units )
NBA | PHOENIX at LA CLIPPERS
Play On - Any team vs the money line (LA CLIPPERS) off an upset loss as a home favorite, extremely well rested team - playing 3 or less games in 10 days
143-86 since 1997. ( 62.4% | 54.3 units )
NBA | PHOENIX at LA CLIPPERS
Play On - Home favorites of 2 to 5.5 points vs. the first half line (LA CLIPPERS) after going under the total by more than 18 points in their previous game, first half of the season
62-28 over the last 5 seasons. ( 68.9% | 31.2 units )
4-2 this year. ( 66.7% | 1.8 units )
NBA | MINNESOTA at DALLAS
Play On - Underdogs of 10 or more points (MINNESOTA) poor defensive team - shooting pct defense of >=46% on the season, good rebounding team - outrebounding opponents by 3+ per game
29-8 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.4% | 20.2 units )
NBA | PHOENIX at LA CLIPPERS
Play On - Any team vs the money line (LA CLIPPERS) off an upset loss as a home favorite, extremely well rested team - playing 3 or less games in 10 days
143-86 since 1997. ( 62.4% | 54.3 units )
NBA | PHOENIX at LA CLIPPERS
Play On - Home favorites of 2 to 5.5 points vs. the first half line (LA CLIPPERS) after going under the total by more than 18 points in their previous game, first half of the season
62-28 over the last 5 seasons. ( 68.9% | 31.2 units )
4-2 this year. ( 66.7% | 1.8 units )
StatFox Super Situations
CBB | MANHATTAN at FLORIDA ST
Play On - Favorites of 10 or more points (FLORIDA ST) good team from last season who won 60% to 80% of their games, with 2 more starters returning from last year than opponent, in the first five games of the season
39-14 over the last 5 seasons. ( 73.6% | 23.6 units )
CBB | MONTANA at COLORADO ST
Play Against - Underdogs of 6 or more points vs. the first half line (MONTANA) good free throw shooting team from last season - made >=72% of their free throws, with just one or fewer starters returning from last year in the first 10 games of the season
54-24 since 1997. ( 69.2% | 27.6 units )
CBB | MANHATTAN at FLORIDA ST
Play On - Favorites of 10 or more points (FLORIDA ST) good team from last season who won 60% to 80% of their games, with 2 more starters returning from last year than opponent, in the first five games of the season
39-14 over the last 5 seasons. ( 73.6% | 23.6 units )
CBB | MONTANA at COLORADO ST
Play Against - Underdogs of 6 or more points vs. the first half line (MONTANA) good free throw shooting team from last season - made >=72% of their free throws, with just one or fewer starters returning from last year in the first 10 games of the season
54-24 since 1997. ( 69.2% | 27.6 units )
StatFox Super Situations
CFL | SASKATCHEWAN at EDMONTON
Play Against - Any team (EDMONTON) good team (outgain opp. by 40-100 YPG) against an average team (+/- 40 YPG) after 9+ games, after allowing 325 or less total yards in 2 consecutive games
25-4 since 1997. ( 86.2% | 20.6 units )
2-0 this year. ( 100.0% | 2.0 units )
CFL | BRITISH COLUMBIA at MONTREAL
Play On - Road underdogs vs. the money line (BRITISH COLUMBIA) off an upset loss as a home favorite against opponent off a road loss
27-22 since 1997. ( 55.1% | 0.0 units )
1-1 this year. ( 50.0% | 0.0 units )
CFL | SASKATCHEWAN at EDMONTON
Play Against - Any team vs the the 1rst half line (EDMONTON) after covering the spread in 3 out of their last 4 games, with a winning record in the second half of the season
38-12 over the last 5 seasons. ( 76.0% | 24.8 units )
6-2 this year. ( 75.0% | 3.8 units )
CFL | SASKATCHEWAN at EDMONTON
Play Against - Any team (EDMONTON) good team (outgain opp. by 40-100 YPG) against an average team (+/- 40 YPG) after 9+ games, after allowing 325 or less total yards in 2 consecutive games
25-4 since 1997. ( 86.2% | 20.6 units )
2-0 this year. ( 100.0% | 2.0 units )
CFL | BRITISH COLUMBIA at MONTREAL
Play On - Road underdogs vs. the money line (BRITISH COLUMBIA) off an upset loss as a home favorite against opponent off a road loss
27-22 since 1997. ( 55.1% | 0.0 units )
1-1 this year. ( 50.0% | 0.0 units )
CFL | SASKATCHEWAN at EDMONTON
Play Against - Any team vs the the 1rst half line (EDMONTON) after covering the spread in 3 out of their last 4 games, with a winning record in the second half of the season
38-12 over the last 5 seasons. ( 76.0% | 24.8 units )
6-2 this year. ( 75.0% | 3.8 units )
College football Top 25 betting cheat sheet: Week 12
Week 12 brings with it some high-profile matchups that will have major implications on the playoff picture. Saying that, the busy holiday season is closing in quickly and if you didn't get a chance to cap, we have all the news and notes you need for this weekends marquee contests wrapped up in a neat little bow.
(17) Clemson Tigers at (23) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (+3)
*Clemson will be getting record-setting freshman QB Deshaun Watson back this week. Watson has been out the Tigers past three contests (3-0 SU/ 0-3 ATS) with a hand injury. Clemson is 4-2 SU and ATS with the freshman in the lineup this season.
*Only two teams have averaged more rushing yards per game than the Yellow Jackets this season. Georgia Tech is averaging 247.8 rushing yards per game and has rushed for 300 or more yards six times in 10 games on the year.
(7) Ohio State Buckeyes at Minnesota Golden Gophers (+12)
*Ohio State has won 12 consecutive games on the road (8-4 ATS), which is the longest active streak in the FBS. The stretch, that started in 2012, has seen the Buckeyes outscore their opponents by an average of 15 points per game.
*The Golden Gophers are 6-0 SU (4-2 ATS) at home this season, for the first time since 1977, thanks in large part to QB Mitch Leidner. The sophomore has a 8-2 TD/INT ratio at home this season while completing 57.3 percent of his passes.
Virginia Tech Hokies at (19) Duke Blue Devils (-5)
*Passing against the Hokies this season has been near impossible, with the defense only allowing opposing QBs to complete 47.42 percent of passes, which is the third-lowest rate in the country. However, the team only has five interceptions, three of which came in one game.
*Duke is only allowing .44 sacks per game, an average which ranks first in the nation. The Blue Devils have attempted 325 passes while allowing just four sacks to surrender one sack per every 81.25 passes
Rice Owls at (21) Marshall Thundering Herd (-21.5)
*Rice has recorded 27 sacks during their six-game win streak and is ranked fifth nationally with 3.6 sacks per game while Marshall is only allowing 1.1 sacks.
*Though there has been a lot made of Marshall's offense this season, their defense has been one of the tops in the country. The Thundering Herd are allowing a mere 17.8 ppg, while holding opposing offenses to 358.4 yards per game.
(5) TCU Horned Frogs at Kansas Jayhawks (+28.5)
*TCU QB Trevone Boykin is looking to become one of just three quarterbacks nationally since 2009 to average over 300 yards passing and 50 yards rushing. The other two were Heisman Trophy winners Robert Griffin III and Johnny Manziel. Boykin is at 299 yards per game passing and 60.7 rushing.
*“He’s a leader in the huddle and he’s a guy that has a presence about him that gives you confidence,” coach Clint Bowen said about QB Michael Cummings. “When he goes on the field, Mike is one of those guys that just makes you believe he’s going to get it done.”
Northwestern Wildcats at (16) Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-17.5)
*Wildcats QB Trevor Sieman has thrown 337 passes this season, but only has five touchdowns to go with eight interceptions. That means 1.5 percent of his passes have gone for scores while 2.4 percent went for picks.
*Notre Dame has intercepted at least one pass in each of its nine games this year and boasts an active streak of 12 consecutive games with an interception, last failing to pick off a pass on Nov. 9, 2013, at Pittsburgh
(24) Oklahoma Sooners at Texas Tech (OTB)
*Freshman QB Cody Thomas will get the start for the Sooners after Trevor Knight suffered a head injury during last week's game. Thomas has attempted 16 passes this season for 50 yards and one pick.
*Texas Tech LB Sam Eguavoen is set to return to action after missing two games with compartment syndrome in his right calf. The senior has 32 solo tackles and a sack this season.
Washington Huskies at (18) Arizona Wildcats (-9)
*As a conference, the Pac-12 has the most returns for touchdowns in the nation with 19 (11 punt returns, eight kick returns). But the Arizona Wildcats and Washington Huskies are just two of three teams in the conference which haven't allowed a special teams touchdown.
*Washington head coach Chris Petersen is hoping for more big plays from a passing game which he deemed "painful." "We just need to be able to throw the ball down field a little bit more and make some plays," Petersen said Monday. “It was nice, we got one to Brayden, a big chunk play. We had two other chances to Dante (Pettis) we couldn't quite get done. We need to hit a few of those."
(11) Nebraska Cornhuskers at (22) Wisconsin Badgers (-6.5)
*The status of Nebraska Cornhusker RB Ameer Abdullah is unclear after not practicing during the bye week. "I'm not a doctor," head coach Bo Pelini said Monday of Abdullah. "I don't know how it's going to play out." Abdullah, who's rushed for 1,250 yards and scored 19 touchdowns, was wearing a brace in practice and is officially listed as probable.
*It was announced Monday that the winner of the Nebraska-Wisconsin rivalry game wins the "Freedom Trophy". The Huskers joined the Big Ten in 2011 and have played Wisconsin three times since. The Badgers are 3-0 ATS and 2-1 SU heading into Saturday's meeting.
(1) Mississippi State Bulldogs at (3) Alabama Crimson Tide (-8.5)
*Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott is the only other player in the race for the Heisman Trophy. Oregon's Marcus Mariota is the -750 fave, with the Bulldogs' QB next at +500.
*No program does a better job at limiting opposing offenses' yardage at home than Alabama. The Tide allow just 195 yards per game in their home games this season. Next best is Arkansas at 241.7 yards per game - almost 50 yards more per game.
(9) Auburn Tigers at (14) Georgia Bulldogs (-2.5)
*Georgia finally gets running back Todd Gurley back this week as the Bulldogs face Auburn. The Dogs were 4-1 SU and 2-3 ATS in Gurley's five games this season, but posted a record of 5-0 O/U.
*Auburn has struggled at Georgia recently and is 0-3 SU and ATS in its last three trips to Sanford Stadium.
(20) LSU Tigers at Arkansas Razorbacks (-2)
*LSU's offense has been heavily dependent on freshman this season. Eighteen of the Tigers' 37 offensive toucdowns (48 percent) have been scored by first-year players, with QB Brandon Harris tallying nine.
*Though just 4-5 SU this season, the Razorbacks have been one of the best bets in the land. The Razorbacks are 7-2 ATS and are a perfect 4-0 ATS at home - exactly where they will be this weekend when the LSU Tigers come into town. The Razorbacks are presently 2.5-point faves and are 3-0 ATS as faves this year.
(12) Michigan State Spartans at Maryland Terrapins (+12)
*The Spartans are currently on the outside looking in at the college football playoffs, but coach Mike Dantonio isn't going to just sit around. "A lot of (teams are) sitting around wondering, 'What do we do next?' That's competition at the highest level," Dantonio said. "Deal with it, be a man about it and move on."
*Terrapins leading WR Stefon Diggs, who was slated to serve a one-game suspension for his role in a pregame skirmish with Penn State, suffered a lacerated kidney in that Nov. 1 matchup and could be out until the end of the regular season.
(2) FSU Seminoles at Miami Hurricanes (+2.5)
*Florida State is 9-1 SU and 6-4 ATS against in-state foes under Jimbo Fisher (since 2010). The Seminoles have won and covered their all four matchups versus Miami with Fisher at the helm.
*The Hurricanes were one of only two teams to intercept Jamies Winston more than once last season when they picked him off twice despite getting beat down 41-14.
(8) Arizona State Sun Devils at Oregon State Beavers (+9)
*Sun Devils QB Taylor Kelly had his best performance since returning from a foot injury against Notre Dame. "Those first two games (back from injury), getting the timing down in your head with the rush and different routes (was difficult)." Kelly passed for 224 yards (17 for 28) and three touchdowns with one interception.
*It may seem like the first time this season the Beavers will have their entire starting defensive line healthy. Both DE Lavonte Barnett and LB Jaswha James played last week after missing two games and DL Jalen Grimble is expected to play for the first time in five games for the Sun Devils.
Week 12 brings with it some high-profile matchups that will have major implications on the playoff picture. Saying that, the busy holiday season is closing in quickly and if you didn't get a chance to cap, we have all the news and notes you need for this weekends marquee contests wrapped up in a neat little bow.
(17) Clemson Tigers at (23) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (+3)
*Clemson will be getting record-setting freshman QB Deshaun Watson back this week. Watson has been out the Tigers past three contests (3-0 SU/ 0-3 ATS) with a hand injury. Clemson is 4-2 SU and ATS with the freshman in the lineup this season.
*Only two teams have averaged more rushing yards per game than the Yellow Jackets this season. Georgia Tech is averaging 247.8 rushing yards per game and has rushed for 300 or more yards six times in 10 games on the year.
(7) Ohio State Buckeyes at Minnesota Golden Gophers (+12)
*Ohio State has won 12 consecutive games on the road (8-4 ATS), which is the longest active streak in the FBS. The stretch, that started in 2012, has seen the Buckeyes outscore their opponents by an average of 15 points per game.
*The Golden Gophers are 6-0 SU (4-2 ATS) at home this season, for the first time since 1977, thanks in large part to QB Mitch Leidner. The sophomore has a 8-2 TD/INT ratio at home this season while completing 57.3 percent of his passes.
Virginia Tech Hokies at (19) Duke Blue Devils (-5)
*Passing against the Hokies this season has been near impossible, with the defense only allowing opposing QBs to complete 47.42 percent of passes, which is the third-lowest rate in the country. However, the team only has five interceptions, three of which came in one game.
*Duke is only allowing .44 sacks per game, an average which ranks first in the nation. The Blue Devils have attempted 325 passes while allowing just four sacks to surrender one sack per every 81.25 passes
Rice Owls at (21) Marshall Thundering Herd (-21.5)
*Rice has recorded 27 sacks during their six-game win streak and is ranked fifth nationally with 3.6 sacks per game while Marshall is only allowing 1.1 sacks.
*Though there has been a lot made of Marshall's offense this season, their defense has been one of the tops in the country. The Thundering Herd are allowing a mere 17.8 ppg, while holding opposing offenses to 358.4 yards per game.
(5) TCU Horned Frogs at Kansas Jayhawks (+28.5)
*TCU QB Trevone Boykin is looking to become one of just three quarterbacks nationally since 2009 to average over 300 yards passing and 50 yards rushing. The other two were Heisman Trophy winners Robert Griffin III and Johnny Manziel. Boykin is at 299 yards per game passing and 60.7 rushing.
*“He’s a leader in the huddle and he’s a guy that has a presence about him that gives you confidence,” coach Clint Bowen said about QB Michael Cummings. “When he goes on the field, Mike is one of those guys that just makes you believe he’s going to get it done.”
Northwestern Wildcats at (16) Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-17.5)
*Wildcats QB Trevor Sieman has thrown 337 passes this season, but only has five touchdowns to go with eight interceptions. That means 1.5 percent of his passes have gone for scores while 2.4 percent went for picks.
*Notre Dame has intercepted at least one pass in each of its nine games this year and boasts an active streak of 12 consecutive games with an interception, last failing to pick off a pass on Nov. 9, 2013, at Pittsburgh
(24) Oklahoma Sooners at Texas Tech (OTB)
*Freshman QB Cody Thomas will get the start for the Sooners after Trevor Knight suffered a head injury during last week's game. Thomas has attempted 16 passes this season for 50 yards and one pick.
*Texas Tech LB Sam Eguavoen is set to return to action after missing two games with compartment syndrome in his right calf. The senior has 32 solo tackles and a sack this season.
Washington Huskies at (18) Arizona Wildcats (-9)
*As a conference, the Pac-12 has the most returns for touchdowns in the nation with 19 (11 punt returns, eight kick returns). But the Arizona Wildcats and Washington Huskies are just two of three teams in the conference which haven't allowed a special teams touchdown.
*Washington head coach Chris Petersen is hoping for more big plays from a passing game which he deemed "painful." "We just need to be able to throw the ball down field a little bit more and make some plays," Petersen said Monday. “It was nice, we got one to Brayden, a big chunk play. We had two other chances to Dante (Pettis) we couldn't quite get done. We need to hit a few of those."
(11) Nebraska Cornhuskers at (22) Wisconsin Badgers (-6.5)
*The status of Nebraska Cornhusker RB Ameer Abdullah is unclear after not practicing during the bye week. "I'm not a doctor," head coach Bo Pelini said Monday of Abdullah. "I don't know how it's going to play out." Abdullah, who's rushed for 1,250 yards and scored 19 touchdowns, was wearing a brace in practice and is officially listed as probable.
*It was announced Monday that the winner of the Nebraska-Wisconsin rivalry game wins the "Freedom Trophy". The Huskers joined the Big Ten in 2011 and have played Wisconsin three times since. The Badgers are 3-0 ATS and 2-1 SU heading into Saturday's meeting.
(1) Mississippi State Bulldogs at (3) Alabama Crimson Tide (-8.5)
*Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott is the only other player in the race for the Heisman Trophy. Oregon's Marcus Mariota is the -750 fave, with the Bulldogs' QB next at +500.
*No program does a better job at limiting opposing offenses' yardage at home than Alabama. The Tide allow just 195 yards per game in their home games this season. Next best is Arkansas at 241.7 yards per game - almost 50 yards more per game.
(9) Auburn Tigers at (14) Georgia Bulldogs (-2.5)
*Georgia finally gets running back Todd Gurley back this week as the Bulldogs face Auburn. The Dogs were 4-1 SU and 2-3 ATS in Gurley's five games this season, but posted a record of 5-0 O/U.
*Auburn has struggled at Georgia recently and is 0-3 SU and ATS in its last three trips to Sanford Stadium.
(20) LSU Tigers at Arkansas Razorbacks (-2)
*LSU's offense has been heavily dependent on freshman this season. Eighteen of the Tigers' 37 offensive toucdowns (48 percent) have been scored by first-year players, with QB Brandon Harris tallying nine.
*Though just 4-5 SU this season, the Razorbacks have been one of the best bets in the land. The Razorbacks are 7-2 ATS and are a perfect 4-0 ATS at home - exactly where they will be this weekend when the LSU Tigers come into town. The Razorbacks are presently 2.5-point faves and are 3-0 ATS as faves this year.
(12) Michigan State Spartans at Maryland Terrapins (+12)
*The Spartans are currently on the outside looking in at the college football playoffs, but coach Mike Dantonio isn't going to just sit around. "A lot of (teams are) sitting around wondering, 'What do we do next?' That's competition at the highest level," Dantonio said. "Deal with it, be a man about it and move on."
*Terrapins leading WR Stefon Diggs, who was slated to serve a one-game suspension for his role in a pregame skirmish with Penn State, suffered a lacerated kidney in that Nov. 1 matchup and could be out until the end of the regular season.
(2) FSU Seminoles at Miami Hurricanes (+2.5)
*Florida State is 9-1 SU and 6-4 ATS against in-state foes under Jimbo Fisher (since 2010). The Seminoles have won and covered their all four matchups versus Miami with Fisher at the helm.
*The Hurricanes were one of only two teams to intercept Jamies Winston more than once last season when they picked him off twice despite getting beat down 41-14.
(8) Arizona State Sun Devils at Oregon State Beavers (+9)
*Sun Devils QB Taylor Kelly had his best performance since returning from a foot injury against Notre Dame. "Those first two games (back from injury), getting the timing down in your head with the rush and different routes (was difficult)." Kelly passed for 224 yards (17 for 28) and three touchdowns with one interception.
*It may seem like the first time this season the Beavers will have their entire starting defensive line healthy. Both DE Lavonte Barnett and LB Jaswha James played last week after missing two games and DL Jalen Grimble is expected to play for the first time in five games for the Sun Devils.
