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CHIC-FIL-A BOWL
DUKE vs. TEXAS A&M
Tuesday, Dec. 31, 8:00 pm
ESPN Johnny Manziel could play his final collegiate game when Texas
A&M meets Duke in the Chick-fil-A Bowl on New Year's Eve in
Atlanta. Manziel, who burst onto the scene to become the first freshman
to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012, finished fifth in the voting this
season and said he will seek feedback from the NFL before declaring for
the draft deadline. If Manziel learns he may not be selected in the
first round, he said he would probably return to Texas A&M. Duke
coach Dave Cutcliffe continues to turn around the program, which is
making its second straight bowl appearance for the first time in school
history. Most of the current Blue Devils got their feet wet in the
postseason with a 48-34 loss to Cincinnati in the 2012 Belk Bowl, but
sharing the stage with the Aggies is a far bigger step. It is expected
to be a high-scoring affair with the total betting line set at 73.5.
Texas A&M is sixth in the nation in scoring but 88th among the 123
FBS teams at points allowed. Duke averages 31.6 points scored and 24.7
against, but struggled to stop the No. 2 scoring offense in its 45-7
loss to top-ranked Florida State in the ACC championship game
DUKE - The Blue Devils won the Coastal Division crown - their first
championship of any kind since sharing the ACC title with Virginia in
1989 - by winning their final six regular-season conference contests
before having their eight-game win streak halted by the Seminoles.
Cutcliffe has enjoyed the luxury of a two-quarterback system featuring
juniors Brandon Connette who has a team-leading 13 rushing touchdowns,
and Anthony Boone. Wide receiver Jamison Crowder was joined by
linebacker Kelby Brown, safety Jeremy Cash and cornerback Ross Cockrell
are on the All-ACC first team.
TEXAS A&M - Manziel recorded another strong season statistically
but wasn't able to lead the Aggies to a victory over their four
toughest opponents - Auburn, Alabama, Missouri or LSU. Manziel also
rushed for a team-leading 686 yards and eight touchdowns, but did most
of his damage throwing the ball to Mike Evans. The Aggies are 15-19 in
bowl games after their 41-19 victory over Oklahoma in last season's
Cotton Bowl and are making their fifth consecutive bowl appearance.
Another SEC team favored and expected to win.
Probably Manziel's last game and would expect a really high scoring
game. A couple great coaches and this really should be a fun game.
Right now I see A&M winning the game but honestly not by that much,
so strongly leaning towards the underdog although like most of these
games, will update as we get closer to game.
DUKE +13
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CHIC-FIL-A BOWL
DUKE vs. TEXAS A&M
Tuesday, Dec. 31, 8:00 pm
ESPN Johnny Manziel could play his final collegiate game when Texas
A&M meets Duke in the Chick-fil-A Bowl on New Year's Eve in
Atlanta. Manziel, who burst onto the scene to become the first freshman
to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012, finished fifth in the voting this
season and said he will seek feedback from the NFL before declaring for
the draft deadline. If Manziel learns he may not be selected in the
first round, he said he would probably return to Texas A&M. Duke
coach Dave Cutcliffe continues to turn around the program, which is
making its second straight bowl appearance for the first time in school
history. Most of the current Blue Devils got their feet wet in the
postseason with a 48-34 loss to Cincinnati in the 2012 Belk Bowl, but
sharing the stage with the Aggies is a far bigger step. It is expected
to be a high-scoring affair with the total betting line set at 73.5.
Texas A&M is sixth in the nation in scoring but 88th among the 123
FBS teams at points allowed. Duke averages 31.6 points scored and 24.7
against, but struggled to stop the No. 2 scoring offense in its 45-7
loss to top-ranked Florida State in the ACC championship game
DUKE - The Blue Devils won the Coastal Division crown - their first
championship of any kind since sharing the ACC title with Virginia in
1989 - by winning their final six regular-season conference contests
before having their eight-game win streak halted by the Seminoles.
Cutcliffe has enjoyed the luxury of a two-quarterback system featuring
juniors Brandon Connette who has a team-leading 13 rushing touchdowns,
and Anthony Boone. Wide receiver Jamison Crowder was joined by
linebacker Kelby Brown, safety Jeremy Cash and cornerback Ross Cockrell
are on the All-ACC first team.
TEXAS A&M - Manziel recorded another strong season statistically
but wasn't able to lead the Aggies to a victory over their four
toughest opponents - Auburn, Alabama, Missouri or LSU. Manziel also
rushed for a team-leading 686 yards and eight touchdowns, but did most
of his damage throwing the ball to Mike Evans. The Aggies are 15-19 in
bowl games after their 41-19 victory over Oklahoma in last season's
Cotton Bowl and are making their fifth consecutive bowl appearance.
Another SEC team favored and expected to win.
Probably Manziel's last game and would expect a really high scoring
game. A couple great coaches and this really should be a fun game.
Right now I see A&M winning the game but honestly not by that much,
so strongly leaning towards the underdog although like most of these
games, will update as we get closer to game.
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BELL HELICOPTER ARMED FORCES BOWL
MIDDLE TENNESSEE vs. NAVY
Monday, Dec. 30, 11:45 am
ESPN Click Here to read all our betting previews at Spooky Express Middle Tennessee finished the regular season with a flourish,
cruising to five straight wins by scoring an average of 42.6 points.
That streak earned the Blue Raiders a date with Navy in the Bell
Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. The Midshipmen crushed rival Army in
their annual showdown and enters bowl season with a four-game winning
streak thanks to a dominating ground attack. Middle Tennessee doesn’t
run it quite as much as Navy but can pile up yards on the ground behind
Jordan Parker and Reggie Whatley. Quarterback Logan Kilgore finished
the season strong with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions during the
season-ending winning streak for the Blue Raiders. No team in college
football throws it less than the Midshipmen, who dominate on the ground
with a triple-option attack.
MIDDLE TENNESSEE - The Blue Raiders are making a return to bowl play
for the first time since falling to Miami (Ohio) in the GoDaddy.com
Bowl after the 2010 season and are focused on picking up the school’s
third bowl win in history. Middle Tennessee tightened its defense over
the last four games, but surrendered 177 yards on the ground in a 48-17
victory over Texas-El Paso in the regular-season finale.
NAVY - The Midshipmen played the final regular-season game of the
college season against rival Army and showed off the effectiveness of
the triple option by churning out 343 of their 353 yards on the ground
in the 34-7 victory. Reynolds’ three rushing touchdowns gave him 29 on
the season, breaking the NCAA single-season record of 27 shared by
former Navy quarterback Ricky Dobbs and Kansas State’s Collin Klein.
Navy gave most of its opponents fits and nearly pulled off an upset at
Notre Dame on Nov. 2 before falling 38-34.
Been following the Sun Belt conference for years and
that included MTS over the years. I see them winning this game by a
field goal in a close but enjoyable game.This looks like a moneyline
doggie once again. Will update as we get closer to game but see no
reason not to jump on MTS and grab the points.
MIDDLE TENNESSEE +7
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BELL HELICOPTER ARMED FORCES BOWL
MIDDLE TENNESSEE vs. NAVY
Monday, Dec. 30, 11:45 am
ESPN Click Here to read all our betting previews at Spooky Express Middle Tennessee finished the regular season with a flourish,
cruising to five straight wins by scoring an average of 42.6 points.
That streak earned the Blue Raiders a date with Navy in the Bell
Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. The Midshipmen crushed rival Army in
their annual showdown and enters bowl season with a four-game winning
streak thanks to a dominating ground attack. Middle Tennessee doesn’t
run it quite as much as Navy but can pile up yards on the ground behind
Jordan Parker and Reggie Whatley. Quarterback Logan Kilgore finished
the season strong with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions during the
season-ending winning streak for the Blue Raiders. No team in college
football throws it less than the Midshipmen, who dominate on the ground
with a triple-option attack.
MIDDLE TENNESSEE - The Blue Raiders are making a return to bowl play
for the first time since falling to Miami (Ohio) in the GoDaddy.com
Bowl after the 2010 season and are focused on picking up the school’s
third bowl win in history. Middle Tennessee tightened its defense over
the last four games, but surrendered 177 yards on the ground in a 48-17
victory over Texas-El Paso in the regular-season finale.
NAVY - The Midshipmen played the final regular-season game of the
college season against rival Army and showed off the effectiveness of
the triple option by churning out 343 of their 353 yards on the ground
in the 34-7 victory. Reynolds’ three rushing touchdowns gave him 29 on
the season, breaking the NCAA single-season record of 27 shared by
former Navy quarterback Ricky Dobbs and Kansas State’s Collin Klein.
Navy gave most of its opponents fits and nearly pulled off an upset at
Notre Dame on Nov. 2 before falling 38-34.
Been following the Sun Belt conference for years and
that included MTS over the years. I see them winning this game by a
field goal in a close but enjoyable game.This looks like a moneyline
doggie once again. Will update as we get closer to game but see no
reason not to jump on MTS and grab the points.
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VALERO ALAMO
BOWL
TEXAS vs. OREGON
Monday, Dec. 30, 6:45
pm ESPN
Texas coach
Mack Brown's swan song with the Longhorns comes against the 12th-ranked Oregon
Ducks in the Valero Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30 in San Antonio. Texas announced Dec.
14 that Brown will step down after 16 seasons, during which he has compiled a
158-47 record - making him the second-winningest coach in the program's rich
history behind Darrell Royal . Brown led the Longhorns to two Big 12 titles and
the 2005 national championship, but Texas struggled to a 30-20 record over the
past four seasons. Oregon went from national championship contender to having
its streak of four straight BCS bowls snapped thanks to November losses at
Stanford and Arizona, but the Ducks say they won't lack motivation despite the
lower-tier postseason invitation. The Ducks' up-tempo spread offense is similar
to the system employed by Baylor, which rolled up 508 total yards in a 30-10 win
over the Longhorns in the regular-season finale. Texas will need defensive end
Jackson Jeffcoat - the Big 12 Co-Defensive Player of the Year - to be a constant
fixture in the backfield to disrupt Oregon's timing and give the Longhorns a
chance to keep pace on the scoreboard.
OREGON - Even with former coach
Chip Kelly gone to the NFL, the Ducks continue to put up prolific offensive
numbers, ranking second in the nation in total yards and third in scoring.
Quarterback Marcus Mariota's Heisman Trophy candidacy fizzled when the threw
four interceptions and fumbled five times in the last four games of the regular
season, but expects to be fully recovered from a lingering knee injury for the
bowl game. The Ducks will be without tight end Pharaoh Brown, who was suspended
for his role in a snowball fight on campus that escalated and resulted in
innocent bystanders being pelted with snowballs, but he is a minor player in the
passing game as eight Ducks have more receptions with Josh Huff leading the
way.
TEXAS - The Longhorns were written off early after losses to BYU and
Mississippi but rebounded in conference play and found themselves in Big 12
title game against Baylor in the season finale. The offense is built around the
running game with Malcolm Brown leading the way since Johnathan Gray's
season-ending injury, but Texas struggles when playing from behind because of
quarterback Case McCoy's inconsistency. The defense has scuffled against strong
rushing teams - allowing 200 or more yards four times, including a whopping 550
yards against Brigham Young - so it might have its hands full against Oregon's
read option.
The question is does the real
Oregon team show up or which is the real Oregon team. Either way I see the Ducks
winning by almost 3 touchdowns. So I would be the most surprised person if they
dont win this game and only concern would be a back door cover as Mack Brown
heads into the sunset. Will update as we get closer to
game.
OREGON -13
I am interested to know who wrote this analysis first? Your analysis is pretty much word for word the same on the cappersaccess service picks 2 forum posted by the "Super Moderator"
0
Quote Originally Posted by SpookyExpress:
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VALERO ALAMO
BOWL
TEXAS vs. OREGON
Monday, Dec. 30, 6:45
pm ESPN
Texas coach
Mack Brown's swan song with the Longhorns comes against the 12th-ranked Oregon
Ducks in the Valero Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30 in San Antonio. Texas announced Dec.
14 that Brown will step down after 16 seasons, during which he has compiled a
158-47 record - making him the second-winningest coach in the program's rich
history behind Darrell Royal . Brown led the Longhorns to two Big 12 titles and
the 2005 national championship, but Texas struggled to a 30-20 record over the
past four seasons. Oregon went from national championship contender to having
its streak of four straight BCS bowls snapped thanks to November losses at
Stanford and Arizona, but the Ducks say they won't lack motivation despite the
lower-tier postseason invitation. The Ducks' up-tempo spread offense is similar
to the system employed by Baylor, which rolled up 508 total yards in a 30-10 win
over the Longhorns in the regular-season finale. Texas will need defensive end
Jackson Jeffcoat - the Big 12 Co-Defensive Player of the Year - to be a constant
fixture in the backfield to disrupt Oregon's timing and give the Longhorns a
chance to keep pace on the scoreboard.
OREGON - Even with former coach
Chip Kelly gone to the NFL, the Ducks continue to put up prolific offensive
numbers, ranking second in the nation in total yards and third in scoring.
Quarterback Marcus Mariota's Heisman Trophy candidacy fizzled when the threw
four interceptions and fumbled five times in the last four games of the regular
season, but expects to be fully recovered from a lingering knee injury for the
bowl game. The Ducks will be without tight end Pharaoh Brown, who was suspended
for his role in a snowball fight on campus that escalated and resulted in
innocent bystanders being pelted with snowballs, but he is a minor player in the
passing game as eight Ducks have more receptions with Josh Huff leading the
way.
TEXAS - The Longhorns were written off early after losses to BYU and
Mississippi but rebounded in conference play and found themselves in Big 12
title game against Baylor in the season finale. The offense is built around the
running game with Malcolm Brown leading the way since Johnathan Gray's
season-ending injury, but Texas struggles when playing from behind because of
quarterback Case McCoy's inconsistency. The defense has scuffled against strong
rushing teams - allowing 200 or more yards four times, including a whopping 550
yards against Brigham Young - so it might have its hands full against Oregon's
read option.
The question is does the real
Oregon team show up or which is the real Oregon team. Either way I see the Ducks
winning by almost 3 touchdowns. So I would be the most surprised person if they
dont win this game and only concern would be a back door cover as Mack Brown
heads into the sunset. Will update as we get closer to
game.
OREGON -13
I am interested to know who wrote this analysis first? Your analysis is pretty much word for word the same on the cappersaccess service picks 2 forum posted by the "Super Moderator"
All
selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express
Thread
https://www.bangthebook.com/picks/t/136189/?
CAPITAL ONE
BOWL
WISCONSIN vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
Wednesday, Jan 1, 1:00
pm ABC
The Capital
One Bowl this year is going to feature two teams who both have put up some big
games this year, but also fell short of the high expectations that they had
before the season. The Wisconsin Badgers ended the year with a nice 9-3 record,
but this definitely isn't the game they were hoping to play in when all was said
and done. On the other side the South Carolina Gamecocks were even more
impressive in terms of record, as they went 10-2 on the year, and finished as
the 9th best team in the country.
The Gamecocks only losses this year
came early on against the Georgia Bulldogs, who were healthy at that point, and
also in a surprise lost to the Tennessee Volunteers that likely hurt them a good
bit here. They've turned it around nicely down the home stretch though, as they
won five straight, including wins against the Missouri Tigers and the Clemson
Tigers to end with 10 wins.
Wisconsin on the other side won six games
straight leading up to their regular season finale against the Penn State
Nittany Lions, a game which they surprisingly lost. Wisconsin finished with the
same conference record at 6-2 as the Gamecocks did this year.
Rushing
Yards Per Game
Both of these teams not only have solid averages at total
yards per game, with Wisconsin averaging 486.8 per game and South Carolina
averaging 453.5 yards per game. A key reason for this has been both teams'
abilities to run the ball, as Wisconsin averages 283 yards per game on the
ground, and South Carolina averages 205.3 yards per game on the ground. These
are both top 30 rankings, and Wisconsin is ranked 8th in the country in the
rushing rankings.
The points per game will be interesting to watch
though, as they are almost even, with Wisconsin averaging 35.8 points per game,
and South Carolina averaging 34.1 points per game. Which offense gets the job
done? That's going to be fun to watch.
Consensus
This game is very close to a pick, and right now South
Carolina is favored on most sportsbooks by about -0.5, and while the records
show that South Carolina had more wins, I don't think it makes them the better
team. I think that Wisconsin is incredibly talented, and I can see them winning
this game by around a touchdown. I love getting it as a pick, or with them as an
underdog, so I'll be on the Badgers.This should be a great game. Two tough
battle tested teams and surprisingly Wisconsin starts out as a small favorite
over the vaunted SEC. I really see this line going the other way and South
Carolina being the favorite so may be worth sitting tight until we get closer to
the game. But Wisconsin should win by a touchdown and bring home the bacon. Will
update as we get closer to game.
WISCONSIN PK (moneyline)
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CAPITAL ONE
BOWL
WISCONSIN vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
Wednesday, Jan 1, 1:00
pm ABC
The Capital
One Bowl this year is going to feature two teams who both have put up some big
games this year, but also fell short of the high expectations that they had
before the season. The Wisconsin Badgers ended the year with a nice 9-3 record,
but this definitely isn't the game they were hoping to play in when all was said
and done. On the other side the South Carolina Gamecocks were even more
impressive in terms of record, as they went 10-2 on the year, and finished as
the 9th best team in the country.
The Gamecocks only losses this year
came early on against the Georgia Bulldogs, who were healthy at that point, and
also in a surprise lost to the Tennessee Volunteers that likely hurt them a good
bit here. They've turned it around nicely down the home stretch though, as they
won five straight, including wins against the Missouri Tigers and the Clemson
Tigers to end with 10 wins.
Wisconsin on the other side won six games
straight leading up to their regular season finale against the Penn State
Nittany Lions, a game which they surprisingly lost. Wisconsin finished with the
same conference record at 6-2 as the Gamecocks did this year.
Rushing
Yards Per Game
Both of these teams not only have solid averages at total
yards per game, with Wisconsin averaging 486.8 per game and South Carolina
averaging 453.5 yards per game. A key reason for this has been both teams'
abilities to run the ball, as Wisconsin averages 283 yards per game on the
ground, and South Carolina averages 205.3 yards per game on the ground. These
are both top 30 rankings, and Wisconsin is ranked 8th in the country in the
rushing rankings.
The points per game will be interesting to watch
though, as they are almost even, with Wisconsin averaging 35.8 points per game,
and South Carolina averaging 34.1 points per game. Which offense gets the job
done? That's going to be fun to watch.
Consensus
This game is very close to a pick, and right now South
Carolina is favored on most sportsbooks by about -0.5, and while the records
show that South Carolina had more wins, I don't think it makes them the better
team. I think that Wisconsin is incredibly talented, and I can see them winning
this game by around a touchdown. I love getting it as a pick, or with them as an
underdog, so I'll be on the Badgers.This should be a great game. Two tough
battle tested teams and surprisingly Wisconsin starts out as a small favorite
over the vaunted SEC. I really see this line going the other way and South
Carolina being the favorite so may be worth sitting tight until we get closer to
the game. But Wisconsin should win by a touchdown and bring home the bacon. Will
update as we get closer to game.
The Oklahoma State Cowboys and
Missouri Tigers are two teams who can really score the football, and they can do
it early and often. They are actually almost exactly the same in their offensive
numbers, and are almost the same in their overall records as well. The Cowboys
went 10-2 this year, and they averaged 39.8 points per game, while the Tigers
went 11-2 this year and scored 39 points per game on average. I'm really
interested to see how these two teams can score against each other, as both
defenses were solid at times this year as well.
Defensively, we can see
Oklahoma State allowing only 20 points per game defensively, and Missouri
allowing only 22.5 points per game. The two sides aren't really known for
offense, and many people are expecting these two sides to put major points on
the board, which I could definitely see happening when all is said and done. The
total yards for these two teams tell a story, as they both average over 440
yards per game. The Tigers have been a bit better, which is surpising as they
are in the SEC, but the average 492.9 yards per game, while the Cowboys average
440.5 yards per game.
All-Around Offenses
A big reason for the
huge success of these two teams this year has to be the fact that they both have
the ability to both air it out and to run the ball very well also. The two teams
are ranked pretty high in both categories, but Oklahoma State passes it a bit
better, and Missouri runs it better.
When looking at the stats, Oklahoma
State averages 12 yards more per game passing the ball, and Missouri actually
averages a whole lot more in yards per game rushing, putting up 64.5 yards per
game more on the ground than the Cowboys do. I'm really going to want to see
this Oklahoma State passing game though against the solid Missouri
defense.
Consensus
I expected this game
to be close to a pick and it is. Oklahoma State is getting +1.5 right now, and I
think that they are the bet in this spot. This should be another really good
game and right now we have Oklahoma State surprisingly winning by a field goal
so it makes sense to buy up a little. Depending on the sportsbook I think we
could see this line move down close to a pick before game time, but regardless
I'm going to be on the Cowboys, as I think that their pass defense is going to
get the best of the Tigers in the end, even though it should be a close one.
Have a slight lean to the Cowboys but will wait until closer to kick off to pull
the trigger. Get it, pull the trigger. Will update as we get closer to
game.
OKLAHOMA STATE +3
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The Oklahoma State Cowboys and
Missouri Tigers are two teams who can really score the football, and they can do
it early and often. They are actually almost exactly the same in their offensive
numbers, and are almost the same in their overall records as well. The Cowboys
went 10-2 this year, and they averaged 39.8 points per game, while the Tigers
went 11-2 this year and scored 39 points per game on average. I'm really
interested to see how these two teams can score against each other, as both
defenses were solid at times this year as well.
Defensively, we can see
Oklahoma State allowing only 20 points per game defensively, and Missouri
allowing only 22.5 points per game. The two sides aren't really known for
offense, and many people are expecting these two sides to put major points on
the board, which I could definitely see happening when all is said and done. The
total yards for these two teams tell a story, as they both average over 440
yards per game. The Tigers have been a bit better, which is surpising as they
are in the SEC, but the average 492.9 yards per game, while the Cowboys average
440.5 yards per game.
All-Around Offenses
A big reason for the
huge success of these two teams this year has to be the fact that they both have
the ability to both air it out and to run the ball very well also. The two teams
are ranked pretty high in both categories, but Oklahoma State passes it a bit
better, and Missouri runs it better.
When looking at the stats, Oklahoma
State averages 12 yards more per game passing the ball, and Missouri actually
averages a whole lot more in yards per game rushing, putting up 64.5 yards per
game more on the ground than the Cowboys do. I'm really going to want to see
this Oklahoma State passing game though against the solid Missouri
defense.
Consensus
I expected this game
to be close to a pick and it is. Oklahoma State is getting +1.5 right now, and I
think that they are the bet in this spot. This should be another really good
game and right now we have Oklahoma State surprisingly winning by a field goal
so it makes sense to buy up a little. Depending on the sportsbook I think we
could see this line move down close to a pick before game time, but regardless
I'm going to be on the Cowboys, as I think that their pass defense is going to
get the best of the Tigers in the end, even though it should be a close one.
Have a slight lean to the Cowboys but will wait until closer to kick off to pull
the trigger. Get it, pull the trigger. Will update as we get closer to
game.
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TAXSLAYER.COM GATOR BOWL NEBRASKA vs. GEORGIA
Wednesday, Jan 1, 12:00
pm ESPN2
To kick off
the New Year we get a very good game between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the
Georgia Bulldogs. Both of these teams had high hopes to start the year, but
injuries really hit both of these teams. Nebraska and Georgia actually met last
year in a bowl game as well, but it'll be a new look for both sides, as both
quarterbacks, Taylor Martinez and Aaron Murray are likely to be out for this
one. Now we get two new look teams here, and both teams come into this one with
8-4 records.
This is the type of game where the two teams just have
different styles of play, as Georgia really airs it out pretty often, averaging
313.8 yards per game in the air, which is 17th best in the country. Obviously a
lot of that came with Aaron Murray leading the charge, but they'll likely still
air it out pretty often. The Bulldogs still have a ton of talent on their
roster, and I think we could see them put major points up.
For the
Cornhuskers, it's about their run game. They rank 19th in the country in rushing
yards per game with 221.7. The Cornhuskers are under 200 yards per game passing
though, averaging 199.5 per game, and I think that this is a spot where if they
get behind then catching up could end up being trouble, as Georgia's defense
could key in on shutting down the pass then.
Offensive Points Per
Game
If you want a game that should be projected to have some scoring,
then this is it. The Cornhuskers come in here averaging 32.6 points per game,
while the Bulldogs average a very nice 38.2 points per game. The defenses
haven't been amazing, averaging 25.3 points per game and 29.4 points per game
respectively. I really think offense is going to be big in this
game.
Consensus
Georgia is currently a
big favorite right now over the Cornhuskers, as they are laying around -10 on
most sportsbooks. I
think that the Bulldogs could very well win this game, but it won't be in a
walk. The Cornhuskers have a very strong team, and I see them playing this to a
single digit game. It may be high scoring, but I actually don't think Nebraska
will have to play catch-up the entire game. I'm going to take the Cornhuskers
+10 in the first of the New Years Day bowl games to start out 2014. This is
another game that may go down to the final series and not decided until the very
end. Have to lean on taking the points although I would have felt better with an
interim coach on the sidelines for Nebraska since Pelini could do us more harm
than good. Will update as we get closer to
game.
NEBRASKA +10
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TAXSLAYER.COM GATOR BOWL NEBRASKA vs. GEORGIA
Wednesday, Jan 1, 12:00
pm ESPN2
To kick off
the New Year we get a very good game between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the
Georgia Bulldogs. Both of these teams had high hopes to start the year, but
injuries really hit both of these teams. Nebraska and Georgia actually met last
year in a bowl game as well, but it'll be a new look for both sides, as both
quarterbacks, Taylor Martinez and Aaron Murray are likely to be out for this
one. Now we get two new look teams here, and both teams come into this one with
8-4 records.
This is the type of game where the two teams just have
different styles of play, as Georgia really airs it out pretty often, averaging
313.8 yards per game in the air, which is 17th best in the country. Obviously a
lot of that came with Aaron Murray leading the charge, but they'll likely still
air it out pretty often. The Bulldogs still have a ton of talent on their
roster, and I think we could see them put major points up.
For the
Cornhuskers, it's about their run game. They rank 19th in the country in rushing
yards per game with 221.7. The Cornhuskers are under 200 yards per game passing
though, averaging 199.5 per game, and I think that this is a spot where if they
get behind then catching up could end up being trouble, as Georgia's defense
could key in on shutting down the pass then.
Offensive Points Per
Game
If you want a game that should be projected to have some scoring,
then this is it. The Cornhuskers come in here averaging 32.6 points per game,
while the Bulldogs average a very nice 38.2 points per game. The defenses
haven't been amazing, averaging 25.3 points per game and 29.4 points per game
respectively. I really think offense is going to be big in this
game.
Consensus
Georgia is currently a
big favorite right now over the Cornhuskers, as they are laying around -10 on
most sportsbooks. I
think that the Bulldogs could very well win this game, but it won't be in a
walk. The Cornhuskers have a very strong team, and I see them playing this to a
single digit game. It may be high scoring, but I actually don't think Nebraska
will have to play catch-up the entire game. I'm going to take the Cornhuskers
+10 in the first of the New Years Day bowl games to start out 2014. This is
another game that may go down to the final series and not decided until the very
end. Have to lean on taking the points although I would have felt better with an
interim coach on the sidelines for Nebraska since Pelini could do us more harm
than good. Will update as we get closer to
game.
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BBVA COMPASS
BOWL
VANDERBILT vs.
HOUSTON Saturday, Jan 4, 1:00
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express The Vanderbilt Commodores and
Houston Cougars both come into this game with 8-4 records, and both had strong
seasons in order to make it to the BBVA Compass Bowl game. The one big
difference that you are going to see here is that the Commodores are going to be
without their starting quarterback in this game. Austyn Carta-Samuels is out as
he underwent knee surgery to fix a torn ACL that was suffered on October 19th.
He missed two games and then started the final three games of the regular
season. The team decided to do the surgery so he had time to prepare for the NFL
Draft workouts.
Now, the Commodores team who grabbed eight wins this
year, and averaged 29.2 points per game, are left without their quarterback, and
that leaves us with many questions. They don't get any type of easy walk here
either, as the Houston Cougars can definitely score, and play some strong
defense as well. The Cougars score more points (33.9 per game) and allow less
points per game (20.2 per game against 24.7 per game) than this Vanderbilt team
does.
Houston is a big time passing team as they rank 26th in the country
in passing yards per game, and this Vanderbilt defense is going to have their
hands full. They average 284.1 yards per game through the air, and in total
average 422.5 yards per game. Vanderbilt's defense has had a few big tests this
year, but seeing how they respond to losing their quarterback in a spot where
they need to step up will be interesting.
Run Game
I think the run
game for these two teams could decide the outcome honestly. They are pretty
even, averaging 133 yards per game and 138.4 yards per game (in favor of
Houston) this year in rushing yards per game, but the two defense will be pumped
up for this game.
Consensus
Here we go
again. A really nice underdog that I expect to win the game outright. Not only
that I wouldnt be surprised to see them win by more than a touchdown. The
concern is not the talent on the field but the coaching which Vanderbilt has a
significant advantage. Surprisingly the Houston Cougars are actually getting
+2.5 points on most sports betting sites, and it could be moving up to +3.
Regardless though, I think this is a spot where the Cougars can win this game.
Just because the Commodores are in the bigger conference, doesn't automatically
give them an edge. Houston has shown us that they can really score, and I think
they'll cause some issues for Vanderbilt. I'm going to be taking the Cougars
with the points, and I'll also lay a bet on them on the moneyline as well. Will
jump on Houston as one of our moneyline underdogs but will return closer to
kickoff for an update as we get closer to game.
HOUSTON +4
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BBVA COMPASS
BOWL
VANDERBILT vs.
HOUSTON Saturday, Jan 4, 1:00
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express The Vanderbilt Commodores and
Houston Cougars both come into this game with 8-4 records, and both had strong
seasons in order to make it to the BBVA Compass Bowl game. The one big
difference that you are going to see here is that the Commodores are going to be
without their starting quarterback in this game. Austyn Carta-Samuels is out as
he underwent knee surgery to fix a torn ACL that was suffered on October 19th.
He missed two games and then started the final three games of the regular
season. The team decided to do the surgery so he had time to prepare for the NFL
Draft workouts.
Now, the Commodores team who grabbed eight wins this
year, and averaged 29.2 points per game, are left without their quarterback, and
that leaves us with many questions. They don't get any type of easy walk here
either, as the Houston Cougars can definitely score, and play some strong
defense as well. The Cougars score more points (33.9 per game) and allow less
points per game (20.2 per game against 24.7 per game) than this Vanderbilt team
does.
Houston is a big time passing team as they rank 26th in the country
in passing yards per game, and this Vanderbilt defense is going to have their
hands full. They average 284.1 yards per game through the air, and in total
average 422.5 yards per game. Vanderbilt's defense has had a few big tests this
year, but seeing how they respond to losing their quarterback in a spot where
they need to step up will be interesting.
Run Game
I think the run
game for these two teams could decide the outcome honestly. They are pretty
even, averaging 133 yards per game and 138.4 yards per game (in favor of
Houston) this year in rushing yards per game, but the two defense will be pumped
up for this game.
Consensus
Here we go
again. A really nice underdog that I expect to win the game outright. Not only
that I wouldnt be surprised to see them win by more than a touchdown. The
concern is not the talent on the field but the coaching which Vanderbilt has a
significant advantage. Surprisingly the Houston Cougars are actually getting
+2.5 points on most sports betting sites, and it could be moving up to +3.
Regardless though, I think this is a spot where the Cougars can win this game.
Just because the Commodores are in the bigger conference, doesn't automatically
give them an edge. Houston has shown us that they can really score, and I think
they'll cause some issues for Vanderbilt. I'm going to be taking the Cougars
with the points, and I'll also lay a bet on them on the moneyline as well. Will
jump on Houston as one of our moneyline underdogs but will return closer to
kickoff for an update as we get closer to game.
There are quite a few bowl games
that really grab your attention, and I feel confident in saying that the
Discover Orange Bowl is one of those games. It features two high powered
offenses in the Clemson Tigers and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Both of these teams
had National Title hopes, and up until their championship game, the Ohio State
Buckeyes looked like they were going to be playing in the BCS National
Championship game.
Clemson and Ohio State's offenses both have put up
huge points this year, as they both average over 40+ points per game. The Tigers
are sitting with 40.2 points per game, while the Buckeyes are the 4th highest
scoring team in the country at 46.3 points per game. Their defensive numbers are
almost exactly identical though as they both allow just over 21 points per game,
with Clemson allowing 21.1 points per game, and Ohio State allowing 21.3 points
per game.
Clemson is sitting at 10-2, but nothing is more painful than
the Buckeyes losing in the Big Ten Championship game to Michigan State to lose
their undefeated season, and a shot at a National Title, to end up with a 12-1
record. Clemson lost in a brutal game to Florida State in the middle of the
year, and then lost to South Carolina in the final week of the season to get
their second loss. Clemson Passing vs. Ohio State Rushing
These are
two high powered offenses, but they both do it differently. Clemson does their
damage through their air primarily, as they are ranked 13th in the country in
passing yards per game at 329.3 yards per game. Ohio State on the other side
does it with their run game, as they are the 3rd best rushing team in the
country in terms of rushing yards per game at 317.5 per. Which side is going to
get the advantage when all is said and done?
Consensus
Really like this matchup. This line is sitting right now at
+2.5 for the Clemson Tigers, but it's on the fringe of moving to -3 for the
Buckeyes. Interestingly, I think that the Clemson offense is going to end up
being too much for the Buckeyes. To go along with that, I feel like many
sportsbooks aren't taking into account the fact that Ohio State is going to be
let down after losing that Big Ten Championship game which kept them out for the
BCS Championship Game. It should be a really good game and I think it will come
down to a field goal and that said will be taking the points and look for the
Tigers to go out on a positive note and like them on the moneyline as well. Also
see this as a high scoring game and whenever that is said, you know you never
know how the game finishes up. Will update as we get closer to game but no
question we are rolling with side and total in this game, just a matter on how
strong. Remember the side is always 3x stronger than the total and the total is
always just an opinion.
CLEMSON +3
CLEMSON / OHIO STATE OVER 66 POINTS
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DISCOVER ORANGE
BOWL
CLEMSON vs. OHIO
STATE Friday, Jan 3, 8:30
pm ESPN
There are quite a few bowl games
that really grab your attention, and I feel confident in saying that the
Discover Orange Bowl is one of those games. It features two high powered
offenses in the Clemson Tigers and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Both of these teams
had National Title hopes, and up until their championship game, the Ohio State
Buckeyes looked like they were going to be playing in the BCS National
Championship game.
Clemson and Ohio State's offenses both have put up
huge points this year, as they both average over 40+ points per game. The Tigers
are sitting with 40.2 points per game, while the Buckeyes are the 4th highest
scoring team in the country at 46.3 points per game. Their defensive numbers are
almost exactly identical though as they both allow just over 21 points per game,
with Clemson allowing 21.1 points per game, and Ohio State allowing 21.3 points
per game.
Clemson is sitting at 10-2, but nothing is more painful than
the Buckeyes losing in the Big Ten Championship game to Michigan State to lose
their undefeated season, and a shot at a National Title, to end up with a 12-1
record. Clemson lost in a brutal game to Florida State in the middle of the
year, and then lost to South Carolina in the final week of the season to get
their second loss. Clemson Passing vs. Ohio State Rushing
These are
two high powered offenses, but they both do it differently. Clemson does their
damage through their air primarily, as they are ranked 13th in the country in
passing yards per game at 329.3 yards per game. Ohio State on the other side
does it with their run game, as they are the 3rd best rushing team in the
country in terms of rushing yards per game at 317.5 per. Which side is going to
get the advantage when all is said and done?
Consensus
Really like this matchup. This line is sitting right now at
+2.5 for the Clemson Tigers, but it's on the fringe of moving to -3 for the
Buckeyes. Interestingly, I think that the Clemson offense is going to end up
being too much for the Buckeyes. To go along with that, I feel like many
sportsbooks aren't taking into account the fact that Ohio State is going to be
let down after losing that Big Ten Championship game which kept them out for the
BCS Championship Game. It should be a really good game and I think it will come
down to a field goal and that said will be taking the points and look for the
Tigers to go out on a positive note and like them on the moneyline as well. Also
see this as a high scoring game and whenever that is said, you know you never
know how the game finishes up. Will update as we get closer to game but no
question we are rolling with side and total in this game, just a matter on how
strong. Remember the side is always 3x stronger than the total and the total is
always just an opinion.
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selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express
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GODADDY.COM
BOWL
ARKANSAS STATE vs. BALL STATE
Sunday, Jan 5, 9:00
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express In the final bowl game before the
2013-2014 BCS National Championship, we get the Arkansas Red Wolves against the
Ball State Cardinals in the GoDaddy bowl. These two teams both had solid years,
but the Red Wolves ended up with a 7-5 record, while the Cardinals ended up with
a 10-2 record, finishing with a 7-1 record in the MAC, which featured some
strong competition this year. This game could come down to the two offenses, as
their defenses seem to rank pretty evenly.
When looking at the numbers,
the Red Wolves allow 26.7 points per game, which is just slightly more than the
24.8 points per game that the Ball State Cardinals allow. Both of these teams
saw their issues come on the road, as both of Ball State's losses came away from
home, and the Arkansas State Red Wolves were just not a good road team, going
2-4 on the road in comparison to their nice 5-1 home record.
The offenses
are where these two teams see big differences in terms of the numbers, as Ball
State averages more than 10 points per game more than Arkansas State does.
Arkansas State has scored 29.7 points per game, and Ball State has managed to
put up 40.1 points per game against some pretty good competition this
season.
Ball State Passing vs. Arkansas State Rushing
Two
different styles of offensive play in this game. Arkansas State rushes for 206
yards per game on average, which is 29th in the country. On the other side, Ball
State is a top 10 passing team, as they average 333.3 yards per game through the
air. Which style of offense is going to get the best of the other? That's going
to be the question that will likely decide the outcome of this post-New Years
bowl game.
Consensus
Currently this
sports betting line has moved to -8.5 on most sportsbooks for the Ball State
Cardinals. When you look at who these two teams played and beat, it's really
tough to bet against this Ball State team. They lost two tough games this year,
but they had some solid wins and have a very strong passing game. Arkansas State
on the other side really hasn't had any very strong wins, and they also have a
tough loss on their resume against 3-9 Memphis. I think that Ball State is
simply the better team and they are going to show that in this game. I think
Ball State wins by 10+, and I'll take the line and try and buy down to 7 for the
favorites. Ball State will win this game by more than a touchdown and I have
been following this team all year and think this is a high scoring game leading
into the National Championship game.
BALL STATE -7
ARKANSAS STATE / BALL STATE OVER 60 POINTS
0
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GODADDY.COM
BOWL
ARKANSAS STATE vs. BALL STATE
Sunday, Jan 5, 9:00
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express In the final bowl game before the
2013-2014 BCS National Championship, we get the Arkansas Red Wolves against the
Ball State Cardinals in the GoDaddy bowl. These two teams both had solid years,
but the Red Wolves ended up with a 7-5 record, while the Cardinals ended up with
a 10-2 record, finishing with a 7-1 record in the MAC, which featured some
strong competition this year. This game could come down to the two offenses, as
their defenses seem to rank pretty evenly.
When looking at the numbers,
the Red Wolves allow 26.7 points per game, which is just slightly more than the
24.8 points per game that the Ball State Cardinals allow. Both of these teams
saw their issues come on the road, as both of Ball State's losses came away from
home, and the Arkansas State Red Wolves were just not a good road team, going
2-4 on the road in comparison to their nice 5-1 home record.
The offenses
are where these two teams see big differences in terms of the numbers, as Ball
State averages more than 10 points per game more than Arkansas State does.
Arkansas State has scored 29.7 points per game, and Ball State has managed to
put up 40.1 points per game against some pretty good competition this
season.
Ball State Passing vs. Arkansas State Rushing
Two
different styles of offensive play in this game. Arkansas State rushes for 206
yards per game on average, which is 29th in the country. On the other side, Ball
State is a top 10 passing team, as they average 333.3 yards per game through the
air. Which style of offense is going to get the best of the other? That's going
to be the question that will likely decide the outcome of this post-New Years
bowl game.
Consensus
Currently this
sports betting line has moved to -8.5 on most sportsbooks for the Ball State
Cardinals. When you look at who these two teams played and beat, it's really
tough to bet against this Ball State team. They lost two tough games this year,
but they had some solid wins and have a very strong passing game. Arkansas State
on the other side really hasn't had any very strong wins, and they also have a
tough loss on their resume against 3-9 Memphis. I think that Ball State is
simply the better team and they are going to show that in this game. I think
Ball State wins by 10+, and I'll take the line and try and buy down to 7 for the
favorites. Ball State will win this game by more than a touchdown and I have
been following this team all year and think this is a high scoring game leading
into the National Championship game.
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VIZIO BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
GAME
FLORIDA STATE vs. AUBURN
Monday, Jan 6, 8:30
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express Number 1 vs. number 2. This is what
we all have waited to see, and this year there wasn't nearly as much argument
about the BCS National Championship game and which two teams deserved to be in
the big game. The Florida State Seminoles were the number one team in the
country after we saw the Alabama Crimson Tide go down to this Auburn team, and
the Seminoles then won the ACC Championship game against Duke. Auburn got in
after winning the SEC Championship game, and getting some help from Michigan
State when they knocked off the then-higher ranked Ohio State
Buckeyes.
There's no question that these two teams are the two teams who
deserve to be playing in the BCS National Championship game this year,
especially with the turnaround that the Auburn Tigers had, and the way that
Florida State has just dominated the teams that they've played this
year.
FSU finished up the year at 13-0, and their closest game was a two
touchdown win against Boston College. Outside of that, they won every game by at
least 27 points. They are an absolute offensive juggernaut, and their defense
isn't far behind this year, as they've really stepped up in a big way to help
out freshman phenom Jameis Winston.
The Auburn Tigers on the other side
had a major climb to make to number two, as they were actually unranked early in
the year. They finished at 12-1 this year, with the one loss coming early on in
the season on the road against the LSU Tigers. They not only knocked off the
Alabama Crimson Tide on that incredible last second missed field goal return,
but they also beat the Missouri Tigers in the SEC Championship game, and have
many other great wins on their resume.
Auburn's Run Game vs. Florida
State's Defense
In terms of total yards, these two teams are both in the
top 12, as FSU ranks 6th with 529.4 yards per game, and Auburn ranks 12th with
505.3 yards per game. The real match-up to watch here though is Auburn's run
game against the incredibly good Florida State defense. Auburn is 1st in the
nation in rushing yards per game at 335.7, while FSU's defense is first in the
nation in points per game allowed at just 10.7.
Consensus
Last year Alabama was my Bowl Game of the Year and although
I had to wait all bowl season to get to my best play this year its not the same.
This is really a tough game to figure out. There is no way I thought the line
would be this high and at first glance it would seem advantageous to grab double
digits and Auburn. But surprisingly after more consideration it does seem that
Florida State just may be up to the task. Both of these teams average 40+ points
per game, as Auburn averages 40.2 points per game, and Florida State averages an
incredible 53 points per game. Florida State's defense could play a big role,
but I think that the Auburn offense will come in prepared. The line on this game
started at -7.5 for the FSU Seminoles on most sportsbooks, and has moved to -8.5
in most spots. I've seen it move around a bit in the past few weeks as well.
While I love the way that Florida State plays, I don't see this game as a
blowout. I think it's going to come down to it, and that Florida State will be
able to win it by a couple touchdowns but it will not be easy. I will have to
wait until we get closer to pull the trigger although I do have some action with
Auburn +11 when it came out and also at Florida State -7 so I have a nice middle
there with my money finally going to be settling on FSU buying down to 7. I also
like the Over some early. Will update as we get closer to
game.
FLORIDA STATE -7
0
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VIZIO BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
GAME
FLORIDA STATE vs. AUBURN
Monday, Jan 6, 8:30
pm ESPN
Click Here to
read all our betting previews at Spooky Express Number 1 vs. number 2. This is what
we all have waited to see, and this year there wasn't nearly as much argument
about the BCS National Championship game and which two teams deserved to be in
the big game. The Florida State Seminoles were the number one team in the
country after we saw the Alabama Crimson Tide go down to this Auburn team, and
the Seminoles then won the ACC Championship game against Duke. Auburn got in
after winning the SEC Championship game, and getting some help from Michigan
State when they knocked off the then-higher ranked Ohio State
Buckeyes.
There's no question that these two teams are the two teams who
deserve to be playing in the BCS National Championship game this year,
especially with the turnaround that the Auburn Tigers had, and the way that
Florida State has just dominated the teams that they've played this
year.
FSU finished up the year at 13-0, and their closest game was a two
touchdown win against Boston College. Outside of that, they won every game by at
least 27 points. They are an absolute offensive juggernaut, and their defense
isn't far behind this year, as they've really stepped up in a big way to help
out freshman phenom Jameis Winston.
The Auburn Tigers on the other side
had a major climb to make to number two, as they were actually unranked early in
the year. They finished at 12-1 this year, with the one loss coming early on in
the season on the road against the LSU Tigers. They not only knocked off the
Alabama Crimson Tide on that incredible last second missed field goal return,
but they also beat the Missouri Tigers in the SEC Championship game, and have
many other great wins on their resume.
Auburn's Run Game vs. Florida
State's Defense
In terms of total yards, these two teams are both in the
top 12, as FSU ranks 6th with 529.4 yards per game, and Auburn ranks 12th with
505.3 yards per game. The real match-up to watch here though is Auburn's run
game against the incredibly good Florida State defense. Auburn is 1st in the
nation in rushing yards per game at 335.7, while FSU's defense is first in the
nation in points per game allowed at just 10.7.
Consensus
Last year Alabama was my Bowl Game of the Year and although
I had to wait all bowl season to get to my best play this year its not the same.
This is really a tough game to figure out. There is no way I thought the line
would be this high and at first glance it would seem advantageous to grab double
digits and Auburn. But surprisingly after more consideration it does seem that
Florida State just may be up to the task. Both of these teams average 40+ points
per game, as Auburn averages 40.2 points per game, and Florida State averages an
incredible 53 points per game. Florida State's defense could play a big role,
but I think that the Auburn offense will come in prepared. The line on this game
started at -7.5 for the FSU Seminoles on most sportsbooks, and has moved to -8.5
in most spots. I've seen it move around a bit in the past few weeks as well.
While I love the way that Florida State plays, I don't see this game as a
blowout. I think it's going to come down to it, and that Florida State will be
able to win it by a couple touchdowns but it will not be easy. I will have to
wait until we get closer to pull the trigger although I do have some action with
Auburn +11 when it came out and also at Florida State -7 so I have a nice middle
there with my money finally going to be settling on FSU buying down to 7. I also
like the Over some early. Will update as we get closer to
game.
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FRANKLIN AMERICAN MORTGAGE MUSIC
CITY BOWL
GEORGIA TECH vs.
MISSISSIPPI Monday, Dec. 30, 3:15
pm ESPN
The Franklin
American Mortgage Music City Bowl is going to feature two teams who have had
their fair shares of ups and downs this year, but the most important thing is
that they are both bowl bound and are playing for a bowl game win here. Both the
Ole Miss Rebels and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets finished up this year at 7-5
overall, but they didn't get their in the same way. It's an SEC vs. ACC
match-up, and much of the talks this year in bowls are going to be about the
strong SEC, and seeing exactly how the non-top SEC teams do against out of
conference opponents here.
Both of these teams averaged 30+ points per
game, as Ole Miss put up 30.4 points a game, and Georgia Tech was able to put up
36.6 per game. The two team defenses were pretty even though, as Ole Miss gave
up 24.3 points per game, which is solid against a strong SEC, and Georgia Tech
gave up even fewer points at just 22.7 points per game. It'll be interesting to
see if the two defenses can stand up against some solid offensive
play.
Ole Miss had three losses in a row to Alabama, Auburn, and Texas
A&M, which are all incredibly tough games, and they lost their final two
games to Missouri, and Mississippi State in overtime. Outside of the Bama' game
though, Ole Miss really had a shot at winning each of the other
games.
Georgia Tech had a similar spot where they lost to Virginia Tech,
Miami, and BYU for three in a row earlier in the year, and lost two of their
final three games to round out the season. The final two losses came against
Clemson and Georgia, which were two games that were definitely two of the
toughest on the schedule.
Ole Miss Passing vs. Georgia Tech
Rushing
Two completely different styles of play here to be honest. The
Rebels come into this game with the 25th ranked passing offense in terms of
yards per game, as they average 285.6 yards per game with quarterback Bo
Wallace. In terms of running the ball though, that is absolutely a huge strength
of the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech is 5th in the country in rushing at an
impressive 311.7 yards per game. The different styles of play should be fun to
watch.
Consensus
I expected this line to
be right about where it's at, with Ole Miss being a field goal favorite on most
sportsbooks. I dont think I will have a closer game in the entire bowl season
and if a game could end in a tie I wouldn't be surprised if this was the game.
No idea at this point and the game may be one of the few games that I dont have
an idea when the game starts either. We shall see. The Rebels passing game may
be too much for Georgia Tech. I think that the Ole Miss defense will be able to
slow down Georgia Tech's rushing offense, and it'll lead to a Rebels victory but
right now and that is my only fear. I am going to stick with the Underdog and go
for a ride with Georgia Tech and buy another point.
GEORGIA TECH +4
0
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FRANKLIN AMERICAN MORTGAGE MUSIC
CITY BOWL
GEORGIA TECH vs.
MISSISSIPPI Monday, Dec. 30, 3:15
pm ESPN
The Franklin
American Mortgage Music City Bowl is going to feature two teams who have had
their fair shares of ups and downs this year, but the most important thing is
that they are both bowl bound and are playing for a bowl game win here. Both the
Ole Miss Rebels and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets finished up this year at 7-5
overall, but they didn't get their in the same way. It's an SEC vs. ACC
match-up, and much of the talks this year in bowls are going to be about the
strong SEC, and seeing exactly how the non-top SEC teams do against out of
conference opponents here.
Both of these teams averaged 30+ points per
game, as Ole Miss put up 30.4 points a game, and Georgia Tech was able to put up
36.6 per game. The two team defenses were pretty even though, as Ole Miss gave
up 24.3 points per game, which is solid against a strong SEC, and Georgia Tech
gave up even fewer points at just 22.7 points per game. It'll be interesting to
see if the two defenses can stand up against some solid offensive
play.
Ole Miss had three losses in a row to Alabama, Auburn, and Texas
A&M, which are all incredibly tough games, and they lost their final two
games to Missouri, and Mississippi State in overtime. Outside of the Bama' game
though, Ole Miss really had a shot at winning each of the other
games.
Georgia Tech had a similar spot where they lost to Virginia Tech,
Miami, and BYU for three in a row earlier in the year, and lost two of their
final three games to round out the season. The final two losses came against
Clemson and Georgia, which were two games that were definitely two of the
toughest on the schedule.
Ole Miss Passing vs. Georgia Tech
Rushing
Two completely different styles of play here to be honest. The
Rebels come into this game with the 25th ranked passing offense in terms of
yards per game, as they average 285.6 yards per game with quarterback Bo
Wallace. In terms of running the ball though, that is absolutely a huge strength
of the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech is 5th in the country in rushing at an
impressive 311.7 yards per game. The different styles of play should be fun to
watch.
Consensus
I expected this line to
be right about where it's at, with Ole Miss being a field goal favorite on most
sportsbooks. I dont think I will have a closer game in the entire bowl season
and if a game could end in a tie I wouldn't be surprised if this was the game.
No idea at this point and the game may be one of the few games that I dont have
an idea when the game starts either. We shall see. The Rebels passing game may
be too much for Georgia Tech. I think that the Ole Miss defense will be able to
slow down Georgia Tech's rushing offense, and it'll lead to a Rebels victory but
right now and that is my only fear. I am going to stick with the Underdog and go
for a ride with Georgia Tech and buy another point.
All
selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express
Thread
https://www.bangthebook.com/picks/t/136189/?
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY
BOWL
TEXAS TECH vs. ARIZONA STATE
Monday, Dec. 30, 10:15
pm ESPN
The Arizona
State Sun Devils and the Texas Tech Red Raiders have two very strong offenses,
and these two offenses get to square off in the National University Holiday Bowl
this year. Arizona State enters the game as a big betting favorite though, as
they are around -14 point favorites on most sportsbooks. I haven't seen this
line move around much either, meaning that many are torn on this, and this is
going to be a tough game to call when all is said and done.
The Sun
Devils ended the year at 10-3 overall, and had a great division and conference
record going 5-0 and 8-1. They were an incredibly good offensive team, and also
had a solid defense this year as well. We've seen their defense step up at times
this year, but offensively they've just done it with a nice combination of a
good passing game and a good running game as well.
Texas Tech on the
other side is an incredibly good passing team, as they average 392 yards per
game in the air, which is the second best in the country. Their passing game is
going to be a huge part of their success in this game, and they'll have to have
a strong passing game in order to keep up with the Sun Devils high powered
offense. Offensive Games
41 points per game and 35.7 points per game
are what we're going to see in this match-up. Two offenses who can really score,
with Arizona State getting the edge though. Both of these teams are in the top
30 in the nation in yards per game, as Arizona State averages 460.8 yards per
game, and Texas Tech averages 513.3 yards per game, which is 10th best in the
entire country.
The points per game will be what's talked about often, as
41 per game for Arizona State ranks 9th in the country, and 35.7 per game for
Texas Tech ranks 28th overall. Both teams can score, and we could see a big
shootout happen during this game.
Consensus
It's a tough game to call overall, especially with a point
spread of -14 for the Sun Devils. If I had to take a pick on this I'd go with
the Sun Devils laying the big number, just because Arizona State's defense has
the ability to make a difference here. I like this offense, but also like this
defense, and I'm going to be on the Sun Devils if it stays at less than a two
touchdown spread. Arizona State should win this game by more than 2 touchdowns
and another one of those games that do not seem to be that close. But laying a
bunch to a high scoring team certainly doesnt make this a no brainer. Im sure
its gonna be Arizona State when the wager is placed and will buy the point down
to 13 and will update as we get closer to
game.
ARIZONA STATE -13
0
All
selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express
Thread
https://www.bangthebook.com/picks/t/136189/?
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY
BOWL
TEXAS TECH vs. ARIZONA STATE
Monday, Dec. 30, 10:15
pm ESPN
The Arizona
State Sun Devils and the Texas Tech Red Raiders have two very strong offenses,
and these two offenses get to square off in the National University Holiday Bowl
this year. Arizona State enters the game as a big betting favorite though, as
they are around -14 point favorites on most sportsbooks. I haven't seen this
line move around much either, meaning that many are torn on this, and this is
going to be a tough game to call when all is said and done.
The Sun
Devils ended the year at 10-3 overall, and had a great division and conference
record going 5-0 and 8-1. They were an incredibly good offensive team, and also
had a solid defense this year as well. We've seen their defense step up at times
this year, but offensively they've just done it with a nice combination of a
good passing game and a good running game as well.
Texas Tech on the
other side is an incredibly good passing team, as they average 392 yards per
game in the air, which is the second best in the country. Their passing game is
going to be a huge part of their success in this game, and they'll have to have
a strong passing game in order to keep up with the Sun Devils high powered
offense. Offensive Games
41 points per game and 35.7 points per game
are what we're going to see in this match-up. Two offenses who can really score,
with Arizona State getting the edge though. Both of these teams are in the top
30 in the nation in yards per game, as Arizona State averages 460.8 yards per
game, and Texas Tech averages 513.3 yards per game, which is 10th best in the
entire country.
The points per game will be what's talked about often, as
41 per game for Arizona State ranks 9th in the country, and 35.7 per game for
Texas Tech ranks 28th overall. Both teams can score, and we could see a big
shootout happen during this game.
Consensus
It's a tough game to call overall, especially with a point
spread of -14 for the Sun Devils. If I had to take a pick on this I'd go with
the Sun Devils laying the big number, just because Arizona State's defense has
the ability to make a difference here. I like this offense, but also like this
defense, and I'm going to be on the Sun Devils if it stays at less than a two
touchdown spread. Arizona State should win this game by more than 2 touchdowns
and another one of those games that do not seem to be that close. But laying a
bunch to a high scoring team certainly doesnt make this a no brainer. Im sure
its gonna be Arizona State when the wager is placed and will buy the point down
to 13 and will update as we get closer to
game.
All selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express Thread
https://www.bangthebook.com/picks/t/136189/?
TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL
UCF vs. BAYLOR
Wednesday, Jan 3, 8:30 pm
ESPN Click Here to read all our betting previews at Spooky Express In this year's
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, we have two teams who can score, and have played
some pretty solid defense as well. The Central Florida Knights have
allowed just 19.6 points per game, while the Baylor Bears have allowed
21.2 points per game on average this year. Both teams were 11-1 this
year, but they did it against a fairly different level of competition,
and that shows in the sports betting spread in this game.
The real stat that is absolutely mind blowing is the average points per
game for these two teams. Central Florida has done a very good job
scoring, averaging 33.2 points per game, which is 41st best in the
country. Unfortunately though, they are going to have some keeping up to
do against the top scoring team in the entire nation, as the Baylor
Bears average an absolutely insane 53.3 points per game on the year.
Scoring that many points is something that is just hard to explain,
except that this offense is more than just a bit explosive.
Yards per game is a stat that you have to look at though, as Baylor
ranks first in the country in that stat as well, averaging 624.5 yards
per game. Not only has Baylor done it through the air, with 359.3 yards
per game, but they do it on the ground also with 265.2 yards per game
rushing. Those are some pretty scary numbers for any defense, and you
can bet that Central Florida is going to have to find a way to slow this
offense down if they want to make it a game.
Passing
We talked about Baylor's great passing game, but Central Florida has
done a good job airing it out also, averaging 280 yards per game, which
is 28th best in the country. Blake Bortles for UCF is going to be a huge
part of this game, and he's going to have to show everyone why he's
projected as a high draft pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.
Consensus
The Baylor Bears are one of the bigger sports
betting favorites in this bowl season, and that's interesting especially
in a game that's this big. Baylor is -17 on most sportsbooks currently,
and while I can see them scoring a ton of points, I know that UCF is
going to be hyped up out of their mind for this game. I think that
Central Florida may be able to keep this within two scores. Everything
points to a Baylor win and just like the Alabama game don't believe they
will lose the game and worth playing in teasers and moneyline parlays.
Anytime you are laying more than 2 touchdowns it becomes dicey hoping
against a back door cover. Going to sit tight for now on the side but do
feel this game will fly over the total and will jump on that now.
Remember the Totals are opinions and the side is where we make our money
and hope we do well enough with the totals to add some icing to the
cake. I may come back with a play on the side later today so check back
otherwise maybe we will just hope that we start rolling with the totals
in tonights game.
UCF vs. BAYLOR(TBD)
UCF / BAYLOR OVER 66 POINTS
0
All selections, analysis and thoughts will be posted on the Bowl Express Thread
https://www.bangthebook.com/picks/t/136189/?
TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL
UCF vs. BAYLOR
Wednesday, Jan 3, 8:30 pm
ESPN Click Here to read all our betting previews at Spooky Express In this year's
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, we have two teams who can score, and have played
some pretty solid defense as well. The Central Florida Knights have
allowed just 19.6 points per game, while the Baylor Bears have allowed
21.2 points per game on average this year. Both teams were 11-1 this
year, but they did it against a fairly different level of competition,
and that shows in the sports betting spread in this game.
The real stat that is absolutely mind blowing is the average points per
game for these two teams. Central Florida has done a very good job
scoring, averaging 33.2 points per game, which is 41st best in the
country. Unfortunately though, they are going to have some keeping up to
do against the top scoring team in the entire nation, as the Baylor
Bears average an absolutely insane 53.3 points per game on the year.
Scoring that many points is something that is just hard to explain,
except that this offense is more than just a bit explosive.
Yards per game is a stat that you have to look at though, as Baylor
ranks first in the country in that stat as well, averaging 624.5 yards
per game. Not only has Baylor done it through the air, with 359.3 yards
per game, but they do it on the ground also with 265.2 yards per game
rushing. Those are some pretty scary numbers for any defense, and you
can bet that Central Florida is going to have to find a way to slow this
offense down if they want to make it a game.
Passing
We talked about Baylor's great passing game, but Central Florida has
done a good job airing it out also, averaging 280 yards per game, which
is 28th best in the country. Blake Bortles for UCF is going to be a huge
part of this game, and he's going to have to show everyone why he's
projected as a high draft pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.
Consensus
The Baylor Bears are one of the bigger sports
betting favorites in this bowl season, and that's interesting especially
in a game that's this big. Baylor is -17 on most sportsbooks currently,
and while I can see them scoring a ton of points, I know that UCF is
going to be hyped up out of their mind for this game. I think that
Central Florida may be able to keep this within two scores. Everything
points to a Baylor win and just like the Alabama game don't believe they
will lose the game and worth playing in teasers and moneyline parlays.
Anytime you are laying more than 2 touchdowns it becomes dicey hoping
against a back door cover. Going to sit tight for now on the side but do
feel this game will fly over the total and will jump on that now.
Remember the Totals are opinions and the side is where we make our money
and hope we do well enough with the totals to add some icing to the
cake. I may come back with a play on the side later today so check back
otherwise maybe we will just hope that we start rolling with the totals
in tonights game.
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