Texas Tech @ Utah Picks & Props

Texas Tech’s yet to play anybody worth a darn, but the defensive line is manned by multiple NFL talents. They will be tasked with harassing Devon Dampier and helping limit Utah’s strong rushing attack.

The Utes are averaging nearly 50 run plays per game this season, with Wayshan Parker and NaQuari Rogers getting a fairly even split along with Dampier. But Texas Tech ranks second nationally in defensive run success.

Behren Morton has thrown for nearly 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. But Utah ranks near the top nationally in defensive pass EPA/play and early downs EPA/play. Morton has thrived on explosive downfield plays, but this is a game where he’s likely going to need to spread it around and take what he can get.

A 10am local kickoff will make for a sleepy, slow start and help us cash the first-half under.

Texas Tech went out and bought one of the best defensive lines that money can buy, with David Bailey and Romello Height being particularly impressive. But Kyle Whittingham boasts another strong defense at Utah, and Rice-Eccles Stadium is one of the toughest atmospheres in college football. Both defenses will show up for this ultra-important Big 12 matchup and keep this game below the total.