LSU vs. Alabama Headline Week 10 College Football

LSU vs. Alabama Headline Week 10 College Football

It’s only happened 45 times in the history of NCAA Division I football, but the No. 1 and 2 teams in the nation will meet for the 46th time during the regular season when the No.1 LSU Tigers and No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide meet in what is undoubtedly the biggest matchup to date on the 2011 NCAAF regular season schedule.

In addition to this matchup between top-ranked teams, BetOnline collegiate gridiron gamblers will also get another pair of free picks featuring at least two more nationally-ranked BCS title contenders in this weekend’s games, so let’s get the ball rolling.

No. 1 LSU at No. 2 Alabama
Saturday, Nov. 5, 8:00 PM ET
TV: CBS

NCAAF Odds
Alabama Crimson Tide -4.5

Analysis: The LSU Tigers (8-0 SU, 6-2 ATS) pounded the Auburn Tigers unmercifully in its emphatic 45-10 win over Auburn as a 21-point favorite while the Alabama Crimson Tide (8-0 SU, 7-1 ATS) cruised to victory in its 37-6 win over Tennessee as a whopping 30–point favorite.

Now, both powerful teams will look to remain unbeaten when they meet in the biggest college football game of the 2011 regular season, but only one team is going to walk away victorious and I know which one. While Alabama has cashed in for gridiron gamblers in five consecutive games, LSU has struck pay dirt three straight times and they’re my pick to do so again, by recording the outright road win in this contest.

The Crimson Tide are allowing just 44.9 rushing yards per contest this season – not to mention an unheard of 6.9 points per game defensively, but I still don’t like them to get the win in this contest, mostly because I believe Alabama quarterback A.J. McCarron is going to throw at least two interceptions in this contest. Not only that, but Alabama hasn’t met a team this season that could match its powerful rushing attack, but they will in this contest.

LSU averages 191.9 yards per game and clearly have the superior set of skill position players, particularly in the defensive backfield. I like LSU’s pro offense and I think quarterback Jarrett Lee will make enough solid throws to keep Alabama’s ferocious defense off balance.

The Road team in this series has gone 11-3-1 ATS in the L/15 meetings while LSU has gone 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven road games against the Crimson Tide and I believe they are going to cash in against the spread by picking up the close SU road win in this highly-anticipated matchup.

This game has ‘classic field goal contest’ written all over it, making the LSU Tigers more of a lock than anything else.

NCAAF Pick: LSU Tigers +5 Points

Texas Tech at No. 21 Texas
Saturday, Nov. 5, 12:00 PM ET
TV: FX

NCAAF Odds
Texas Longhorns -12

Analysis: If each team’s last games are any indication then the 21st-ranked Texas Longhorns (5-2 SU, 4-3 ATS) don’t look like they’re going to have many problems when they host in-state rival Texas Tech (5-3 SU, 5-3 ATS) in their annual showdown this Saturday.

Texas Tech was crushed in its 41-7 Week 8 loss to Iowa State as a 15-point home favorite while Texas laid a huge, 43-0 smackdown on mediocre Kansas to cash in against the spread as a whopping 28-point home favorite. The Longhorns have won two straight and seven of the last eight meetings overall against Texas Tech and I see no reason why they won’t win this one as well.

Nevertheless, I am still going to urge BetOnline collegiate gridiron gamblers to back the Texas Tech Red Raiders as a two-touchdown underdog.

Texas Tech is 9-3-1 ATS in its L/13 games after scoring less than 20 points in its previous contest and Texas is just 2-7 ATS in its L/9 games against conference opponents. Back the Red Raiders to cash in by keeping it close until the very end.

NCAAF Pick: Texas Tech +14 Points

Purdue at No. 20 Wisconsin
Saturday, Nov. 5, 12:00 PM ET
TV: ESPN2

NCAAF Odds
Wisconsin Badgers -25.5

Analysis: The Purdue Boilermakers (4-4 SU, 4-4 ATS) and Wisconsin Badgers (6-2 SU, 5-2-1 ATS) will both be looking to get back in the win column after falling in their respective Week 9 NCAAF matchups.

Purdue is coming off a dismal 36-14 road loss to Michigan while failing to cash in against the spread as a 14-point road dog to snap its three-game ATS winning streak. Wisconsin has lost two straight, including its heartbreaking 33-29 loss to Ohio State as a 7.5-point road favorite to nearly fall out of the national rankings.

The Badgers have won five consecutive games over the Boilermakers and should make it six in a row by winning this contest at home. However, when it comes to covering the NCAAF betting line as a 25.5-point home favorite, I just can’t back the Badgers after they’ve dropped the ball in a big way the last two weeks.

Purdue is 8-3 ATS in their L/11 games as a road underdog of 10.5 points or more and 5-2 ATS in their last seven conference games. The Badgers have posted some stellar ATS trends of their own coming into this contest, but I still like the Boilermakers to cash in with the road team in this series going 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings!

NCAAF Pick: Purdue Boilermakers +25.5 Points

Week 9 College Football Free Picks

College Football Week 9 Free Picks

College Football Picks and Predictions

Another week of exciting College Football betting action awaits at BetOnline Sportsbook so without too much fuss, let’s just get down to the business of picking.

College Football Betting Line:
Michigan State Spartans +4  -110  +160 48½ O-110 U-110
Nebraska Cornhuskers -4  -110 -190       48½ O-110 U-110

Betting Analysis: # 11 Michigan State at # 14 Nebraska is a much-anticipated clash, at least if you are a Spartans fan eager to back your side towards capping an outstanding month of football. The Spartans (6-1, 3-0 Big Ten) are riding a four-game winning streak since losing to Notre Dame 31-13 late in September. In the first two games, they held opponents to single digits – 45-7 over Central Michigan and 10-7 over Ohio State. And in the subsequent two, they proved to be the better team as they went on to deserved victories – a 28-14 win over in-state rivals Michigan and a 37-31 win over #4 Wisconsin.
The Cornhuskers (6-1, 2-1 Big Ten) have lost just one game this season, early in October against the Badgers. Since then, they have won two-in-a-row and they’ll be looking to extend that form against the hot Spartans. Nebraska is looking to make some significant strides in the Conference so the pressure is on, especially with home advantage.

Pick: This pick is all about underdog love. The Spartans go into this game as the +160 dogs but that is largely down to the fact that they are the road team here and not for any lack of ability. I mean, they have all the momentum on their side right now. Moreover, their defense has been impressive giving up only 13.7 points per game so far. Granted, the Cornhuskers offense is like lightning and could give the Spartans’ defense something to think about. So the best pick here is to clean up with the Spartans to win a +160 and the game to go over 48 ½ on the totals at -110.

College Football Betting Line:
Clemson Tigers -3½  -110   -170    63½ O-110 U-110
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets +3½  -110  +150    63½ O-110 U-110

Betting Analysis: The Clemson Tigers are undefeated across the board with an 8-0, 5-0 ACC record and they hope to extend this unblemished record against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Saturday. In fact, if the market were any indication they are an almost certain bet to win because despite being on the road they are firmly installed as the favourites at -170 to win while the home team are tipped as the significant puppies at +150. The question that must be asked: Can the Yellow Jackets mastermind the huge upset?

It’s not entirely impossible as the Yellow Jackets offense has been quite solid, averaging an amazing 321.1 yards per game. Problem is though that the Yellow Jackets (6-2, 3-2 ACC) aren’t going into this game high on confidence, having dropped their last two clashes.

Pick: Fact is, the betting public is heavily leaning towards a Clemson win and at the risk of being a follower, I kinda have to agree. Of course, there is nothing essentially wrong with going against the tide and betting on a home win but I think football fans would be better served taking the Yellow Jackets to cover the spread here.

College Football Betting Line:
Oklahoma Sooners-13½  -110      -550      58½ O-110 U-110
Kansas State Wildcats +13½  -110 +425 58½ O-110 U-110

Betting Analysis: In perhaps the lopsided market of this weekend’s batch of College Football games, the #9 Oklahoma Sooners (6-1, 3-1 Big 12) and the #8 Kansas State Wildcats (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) collide. Despite a narrow 41-38 loss to Texas Tech, the Sooners go into this next clash as the hot –and I mean HOT – faves, listed at a whopping -550. At the same time, the Wildcats – who are hosting no less – are tipped at an outrageous +425 – and this price despite remaining undefeated on the season.

The way the public is talking about this game can be summed up in two words: instant classic. Heck, ESPN is going to be on hand. High expectations precede this game and its outcome but it remains to be seen whether the bookies have it right.

Pick: Kansas St. is fired up and eager to stay on track with Oklahoma as Big 12 leaders. They have just as much invested in the outcome as the Sooners do, so it’s rather perverse of the markets to assume they won’t put up a good fight. What’s with the +425 price tag?  While it’s not for me to comment on market wisdom what I can comment on is bargains. If the bookies have it wrong, having seriously underestimated Kansas St. , then college football fans stand to really clean up. Frankly, you’d be crazy not to lay a bet at +425 for an undefeated team. Of course, the Sooners have history on their side, having not lost back-to-back Big 12 games in over a decade. But there is a first time for everything. I am going with a Kansas State win and the Sooners to cover the spread. Expect a close one.

Week 8 College Football Free Picks

Week 8 College Football

No. 6 Wisconsin at No. 16 Michigan State (ESPN/ ESPN3)

Wisconsin has been coasting somewhat this season; few teams have managed to really challenge them in any meaningful way and they’ve had the fortune to play almost every game in Madison. That should change with a visit to Michigan State this weekend.

Wisconsin is 6-0 (2-0 Big Ten), a record that includes leading the nation with an average of 50.2 points and an eighth overall ranked offense with 523.2 yards per game, is enjoying one of its best starts ever. Certainly, on paper they appear impressive.  Bearing in mind that this record is underlined by home dominance and only one game – granted a 49-7 win over Northern Illinois – was played on the road, the question must be asked: how impressive are they really?

Michigan State is enjoying a three-game winning stretch which includes a 28-14 win over in-state rivals Michigan last weekend. Overall, the Spartans are ranked second in total defense and have stacked impressive numbers that include 21 sacks, 8 interceptions and holding opposing QBs to an 84.4 rating – stats that instil fear and loathing in opponents.

Football Betting Verdict: By descending on Michigan State, Wisconsin will be entering the first truly hostile territory on its schedule. The Badgers haven’t seen a defense as good as MSU’s is but neither have the Spartans come across an offense as complete as the Badgers. The Spartans second-ranked defense gives up 186 yards per game, but can it stop a Badgers offense that’s averaging over 50 points per game? If you subscribe to the school of thought that dictates: defence wins a game, then the answer is ‘YES’. If the Spartans’ offense can get its ground and air game going, they should give Wisconsin a close contest, definitely enough to cover the 7-point spread.

Pick: MSU to Cover

Tennessee at No.2 Alabama (ESPN 2/ESPN3)

Tennessee (3-3, 0-3 SEC) is getting no favors from the schedule as it heads towards yet another tough task in No.2 overall Alabama (7-0, 4-0 SEC).

Last week, the Tennessee Volunteers were trounced 38-7 by the No.1 ranked LSU Tigers and much of the same is expected here. Indeed, this is Alabama’s game to win and (most likely) they’ll win with little effort, conveniently before the looming clash against LSU the coming week.

Alabama is coming off another impressive performance, a 52-7 routing of Ole Miss last weekend. The Crimson Tide wasn’t tested at all as it easily held the Rebels to 141 yards of total offense and just nine first downs. Heisman hopeful Trent Richardson carved 183 yards and four touchdowns (improving his seasonal total to an insane 15 touchdowns) against the Rebels.

Football Betting Verdict: With such a lopsided victory expected the betting value is not in the outright win markets (it’s an almost foregone conclusion) but in the periphery markets, i.e. the totals and spreads. Alabama is playing some inspired football this season, giving up an average of 7 points per game. They are 6-1 ATS this season and 3-1 at home ATS. They’re not going to risk much in this one with LSU looming the next week but even at 50% effort it shouldn’t be difficult to put down 50 points against the Volunteers while being stingy at the same time.

Pick: Alabama to Cover 

Auburn at No.1 LSU

In the battle of the Tigers, what hope does Auburn (5-2, 3-1 SEC) have against the top-ranked LSU (7-0, 4-0 SEC) really? None? Some?  If football betting market reactions and popular opinion are anything to go by, the former is probably true.

The LSU Tigers are rolling this season, undefeated in seven games by a considerable average margin of over 26 points. The defense hasn’t been lazy either, stacking impressive numbers including holding opponents to just 7.8 points per game. No surprise then that they are the heavy faves to win and that most bettors expect them to win.

Bearing in mind that this is effectively a clash between the top-ranked team and the reigning national champions, you’d think Auburn would be given a bit more consideration. Two things have hurt them this season: their inconsistent form and the fact that Cam Newton is no longer there to lead them to glory.

Football Betting Verdict: This game is LSU’s to win, hands down. However, I don’t believe Auburn will go down without a fight. Therefore, I expect LSU to be forced to work hard to win a surprisingly tight game.

Pick: LSU Straight Up, Auburn to Cover

College Football Week 7 Trio of Free Picks

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This weekend we have another fantastic College Football betting menu at BetOnline Sportsbook, running down the list we’ll focus on three clashes that should live up to the hype, deliver exceptional thrills and maybe some surprise results: Michigan vs. Michigan State; LSU vs. Tennessee and Oklahoma State vs. Texas.

LSU vs. Tennessee – The LSU Tigers are widely accepted as one of the elite teams this season while Tennessee is easily one of the most underrated teams this season; this sets up a rather interesting clash on the weekend.

Most College Football aficionados would lean towards betting on the Tigers in this game and for good reason. They are 3-0 for the Conference and 6-0 overall on the season, compared to the Volunteers, who are 0-2 for the Conference and 3-2 overall.

But Tennessee sits 11th in Passing Yards overall (327.2) thanks largely to QB Tyler Bray who has passed for over 1300 yards in 4 games, completed 68.5 % of his passes – 14 for touchdowns. Defending against the Tennessee passing game could prove to be challenging for the Tigers’ running game.

College Football Betting Pick: The Tigers results to date are beyond reproach, making them a good bet. No sense in arguing that point. Yet, I can’t help liking the Tennessee Volunteers to perhaps cover the spread.

Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. Texas Longhorns – Another Big 12 showdown is on the books as the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Texas Longhorns clash this weekend. The Longhorns look to rebound after an unmemorable performance, a home defeat no less, to huge rivals Oklahoma. But can their confidence recover in time to handle the impressive Cowboys offense?

The defensive side of the ball has been the better aspect of the Longhorns’ game this season, save for last weekend’s debacle that is, in which the defence’s capitulation resulted in a 55-17 loss to Oklahoma. Offense has been too inconsistent thus far and, you could say, completely non-existent last weekend.

The Cowboys continue to impress this season. They are riding high in the saddle after an impressive showing against the Jayhawks, winning by a staggering 70-28, improving their record to 5-0 this season. To say offense is their strength is an understatement. Defense hasn’t been much of a talking point but only because it hasn’t had to do anything, really. 

Offense has been running the show and no opposing defense has had an answer to their ridiculous form and scoring abilities – the Cowboys lead with 51.4 points per game and are second overall in passing yards.  And instrumental in these team stats has been QB Brendon Weeden, who has 15 Touchdowns and 1,880 passing yards.

College Football Betting Pick: Oklahoma State Cowboy’s passing game has paid dividends and so it should in College Football Betting markets; it wouldn’t surprise me to see the Cowboys beat Longhorns handily and tally a score of 55+ in this game.  Thus, the best bet is: the Cowboys to cover the spread and the Over.

Michigan vs. Michigan State –Michigan State are after a 10-7 victory – the most subdued result of Week 5 – a fortnight ago over Ohio State, a score that stands in stark contrast to all their other wins on the season, which were convincing offensive contributions to say the least. From the start, Michigan State was expected to make an impact in most offensive categories but where they may have surprised some is on the defensive side of the ball. The Spartans are sixth in rushing defense and third in scoring defense.

Solid on both sides of the ball, Michigan State is a particularly dangerous team that should not be underestimated this season. Of course, Michigan (6-0, 2-0) is brimming with confidence following a solid start to the season. They really should be up for the task ahead but there is the small matter of history (having not beaten the Spartans since 2007) that stands against them.

The Spartans have two things going for them, a bye week and a psychological edge, having not lost to the Wolverines ever since Mike Hart referred to Michigan State as the Wolverines’ little brother. And now, the Spartans are on the verge of tying a school record in their series.

College Football Betting Pick: The Spartans have had the measure of the Wolverines these past few seasons; having not lost to their in-state rivals since 2007. Undoubtedly, the Wolverines will test the measure of the Spartans and give this game their all, but the Spartans are rested and fresher, coming off a bye week and with a school record on the line they have motivation that tips the balance ever so slightly in their favor. Michigan State to win SU.

Week 6 College Football Will Rock the Rankings

Week 6 College Football Betting

With Saturday’s matchups just over 48 hours away, let’s get down to the business at hand – boosting the annual college football betting bankroll like never before!

No. 17 Florida at No. 1 LSU
Saturday, Oct. 8, 3:30 PM ET
NCAAF Odds
LSU -13.5

Analysis: The Florida Gators (4-1 SU, 3-1-1 ATS) are heading in a good direction under first-year head coach Will Muschamp, but his young and rebuilding ballclub is more than likely going down for the second straight week after getting blown out by Alabama in its 38-10 home loss as a 3.5-point home dog on Saturday.

This week, the Gators get to play host to the top-ranked LSU Tigers (5-0 SU, 3-2 ATS) and things aren’t looking bright, seeing as how the Tigers blew Kentucky off the map in its 35-7 Week 5 beating of their SEC rivals.

While I like the Tigers to win this game outright on the road, I don’t see them duplicating Alabama’s blowout of a week ago, which is why I’m going to urge NCAAF bettors to back the Florida Gators to cover as nearly two-touchdown underdogs.

The road team in this SEC rivalry has gone 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings and Florida is an identical 8-2 ATS in their L/10 games following an SU loss. LSU is 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games as a favorite of 10.5 points or more.

NCAAF Pick: Florida Gators +13.5 Points

No. 3 Oklahoma at No. 11 Texas
Saturday, Oct. 8, 12:00 PM ET
NCAAF Odds
Oklahoma Sooners -10

Analysis: The Oklahoma Sooners (4-0 SU, 3-1 ATS) and the Texas Longhorns (4-0 SU, 3-1 ATS) will both be looking to remain unbeaten when they meet at the Cotton Bowl in this year’s edition of the Red River showdown, but I’ve got the scoop on just which Big 12 team is going to cash in against the spread!

Oklahoma laid waste to Ball State 62-6 in their Week 5 win on Saturday to cash in as a whopping 40-point home favorite, but it’s their wins over Missouri and Florida State that lead me to believe that, not only are they going to cover the spread, but do so by winning outright.

The 11th-ranked Longhorns routed Iowa State 37-14 on Saturday to easily cash in as an 8.5-point road favorite, but I’m not overly impressed with their wins over Rice and UCLA – not to mention their squeaker of a victory over an average BYU team.

The Sooners are just 1-4-1 ATS in the last half-dozen meetings, but Texas is 1-5 ATS in their last six games against a team with a winning record and 1-5 ATS in their L/6 conference games.

I really like Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones and believe he will be the difference between winning and losing this contest, so I urge BetOnline NCAAF bettors to back the Oklahoma Sooners to get the job done with room to spare!

NCAAF Pick: Oklahoma Sooners -10 Points

Kansas at No. 6 Oklahoma State
Saturday, Oct. 8, 3:30 PM ET
NCAAF Odds
Oklahoma State -32

Analysis: The Oklahoma State Cowboys (4-0 SU, 3-1 ATS) remained undefeated by squeaking past Texas A&M in their 30-29 Week 5 win to cash in as a 4.5-point road underdog.

The Kansas Jayhawks (2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS) are coming off a high-scoring victory, 45-34 to Texas Tech but are allowing a whopping 44.2 points per game defensively this season.

Nevertheless, I really like the Jayhawks to cover the insanely high spread as a whopping 31-point road underdog in this matchup mostly because they can score the ball with almost any team in the country. The Jayhawks are averaging a stellar 36.2 points per game this season and have received excellent play from sophomore quarterback Jordan Webb (9 TDs, 3 Ints).

Yes, I know the Jayhawks got throttled by Oklahoma State 48-14 at home last season as a 24-point home dog, but I’m not expecting another rout this time around.

The road team in this series is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings and I’m urging BetOnline NCAA gridiron gamblers everywhere to back the Jayhawks in this matchup.

NCAAF Pick: Kansas Jayhawks +31 Points

Week 5 College Football Top Bets

College Football Week 5: Prime Matchups of Top Ranked Teams

There was good and bad last week as I hit under 69 in the Texas A&M/Oklahoma State contest where the total finished at 59, LSU destroyed the -5.5 point spread in their 47 to 21 victory over West Virginia, and Alabama who demolished Arkansas 38 to 14 to easily cover the 11 point spread. Then, there was Oklahoma who failed to cover the 20 point spread in their victory over Missouri.

Week 5 in college football betting brings us four more picks that will hopefully bring a few chachings to our ears! 

#13 Texas A&M at #18 Arkansas

When:  Oct. 1 at 12:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Texas A&M -2.5, Total 62   

Analysis:  The Aggies couldn’t hold a 20 point lead in their loss to Oklahoma State last Saturday. I don’t imagine they’ll run into those same issues on Saturday. A&M still allows only 60.3 yards per game on the ground, ranked 7th in college football, and Arkansas is not a pass on every down team. The Razorbacks prefer balance on offense, averaging 215 yards per game through the air and 115 yards per game on the ground.  The Razorbacks’ D gives up 444 yards and 38 points per game. I’m backing the Aggies in a contest between two teams looking for the bounce back even though the trends mostly favor Arkansas.

Pick:  Texas A&M

#15 Clemson at #10 Virginia Tech

When:  Oct. 1 at 6:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Virginia Tech -7, Total 49

Analysis: Is Clemson for real? The Tigers have beaten Auburn and Florida State back-to-back. Even though Clemson covered, both games were agonizingly close and the end result could have been much different if the Tigers’ hadn’t received all of the lucky bounces in both contests. Virginia Tech sports the best defense that Clemson has faced, and will probably face, this season. Sure, the Hokies haven’t played a team as good as Clemson yet, but still haven’t allowed a team to score more than 13 points against them either. I tend to favor the home team if they have the better defense. VA Tech definitely has the better defense, but giving up 7 points to the Tigers, because Lady Luck is so obviously on their side, is too hard to do.  I’ll play under the total and hope that the Hokies’ offense is somewhat anemic in this one but their D comes to play.

Pick:  Under 49

#2 Alabama at #12 Florida

When:  Oct 1 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Alabama -3.5, Total 45.5  

Analysis:  ‘Bama’s D is ranked #2 in the nation. It allows an incredible 184 total yards and 8 total points per game, but Florida’s offense is no slouch. The Gators average 460 yards and 40 points per contest. Not only that, but Florida’s D is ranked 4th in the nation when allowing only 9 points per game and 232 total yards. Florida has beaten both Tennessee and Kentucky this season, two SEC rivals, while the Tides’ best victory was last week against what I view as an overrated Arkansas squad. Florida gets ‘Bama in The Swamp and you’re giving me close to 4 points?  I’m all over it!

Pick:  Florida

#8 Nebraska at #7 Wisconsin

When:  Oct. 1 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Wisconsin -9, Total 56.5

Analysis:  Nebraska hasn’t impressed nearly as much as the Badgers have so far this season. Nebraska allowed Fresno State to score 29 against them in a 42 to 29 victory.  They also allowed Washington to score 28 against them in a 51 to 38 victory and played from behind in both games. Yeah, they will be playing behind in this game as well, but they’ve got zero chance of catching up to the Badgers. Zero. Wisconsin has scored 51, 35, 49 and 59 in their four games this season. They held Oregon State to a big fat nothing in their 35 to 0 victory over the Beavers, a team that averages 36 points per game. Wisconsin is simply awesome. They have the third ranked D in the nation, allowing 8.5 points per game, and the 6th ranked offense in the nation, averaging 48.5 points per contest, and get the Black Shirts at home. Sorry, Nebraska, the Badgers are going to give you the ultimate rude welcome to the Big Ten on Saturday.

Pick:  Wisconsin

Week 4 – Best Bets Involving Top Ten Teams

It’s apparent that there are a number of Top 10 teams that football handicappers might be able to ride this entire season to sweet profits.  One of those teams is the Boise State Broncos, but that said Boise is a 32 point favorite over Tulsa on Sept. 24th. 

I can’t see myself offering up 32 points to Tulsa.  Instead, I’m going to go ahead and take a look at games involving #3 Alabama, #7 Oklahoma State at #8 Texas A&M, #2 LSU, and #1 Oklahoma. Check out the odds on these games and then get ready to win!

#14 Arkansas at #3 Alabama

When:  Sept. 24 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Alabama -11.5, Total 50.5   

Analysis:  The trends favor both teams in this game.  For instance, ‘Bama is 8 and 3 ATS in their last 11 games as a favorite and Arkansas is 10 and 1 ATS in their last 11 conference games.  Since neither team has a trend edge, I’ve got to dig deeper.  After doing so, it’s apparent to me that the Tide isn’t giving up enough points in this game.  Sure, Arkansas averages 47 points per game.  Yes, the Razorbacks’ O is ranked 11th in college football with 517.6 yards per game, but Bama’s D is amazing.  It allows, on average, 6 points per and a ridiculous 170 yards per.  Arkansas allowed Troy to score four TD’s and 28 points in the Hogs’ 38 to 28 victory in their last matchup.  ‘Bama figures to put up at least that on this Saturday while holding Arkansas to less than 17.  I like Alabama to cover.

Pick:  Alabama

#7 Oklahoma State at #8 Texas A&M

When:  Sept. 24 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Texas A&M -4, Total 69

Analysis:  Oklahoma State’s offense is ranked 2nd in the nation with 601 total yards per game and an awe-inspiring 52.3 point average per game.  Impressive, right?  No doubt, but I’m not sold on the Cowboys in this game.  Oh, sure, they can beat the spread: A&M is giving the real OSU 4 points, but I’m just not convinced that the Cowboys come close to putting up anything near their 52.3 average in this contest.  Texas A&M’s defense is ranked 15th in total yardage per game while giving up only 217 yards on average and the Aggies are ranked10th in points allowed per game while giving up only 10.5 points on average.  There are some nice trends supporting the OVER in this contest, but even nicer trends supporting the UNDER, which is 10 and 1 in Oklahoma State’s last 11 games as a road underdog and 16 and 5 in the Cowboys’ last 21 road games.  The UNDER is 6 and 1 in the Aggies last 7 games as a home favorite of 3.5 to 10 points and 6 and 2 in the Aggies last 8 home games.  Considering the trends and the fact that Texas A&M has a dynamite D, I’m going UNDER in this contest.

Pick:  Under 69

#2 LSU at #16 West Virginia

When:  Sept. 24 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  LSU -3, Total 50.5  

Analysis:  West Virginia almost blew it last Saturday against Maryland after going into halftime with a 27 to 10 lead.  The Mountaineers hung on for a 37 to 31 victory.  They’ll be lucky to get 27 in this entire game since they face, arguably, the best defense in the nation on Sept. 24th.  Not only did LSU hold Oregon, who averages 50.7 points per game, to 27 in their Week 1 victory, they’ve dominated since, allowing a total of 9 points in two games.  Against then-Top 25-ranked Mississippi State last Thursday night, LSU kept the Bulldogs out of the end zone and allowed only 6 points and less than 200 total yards on their way to a 19 to 6 road victory.  The Tigers are legit, folks!  They should absolutely rout West Virginia, whose D has allowed an average of over 18 points and 316 yards in three games versus Marshall, Norfolk State and Maryland.  Jump on the 3 point spread while you can my fellow football handicappers!

Pick:  LSU

Missouri at #1 Oklahoma

When:  Sept. 25 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Oklahoma -21.5, Total 56.5

Analysis:  Oklahoma’s D came up big versus Florida State last week, which should scare the heck out of Missouri fans.  Sooners’ QB Landry Jones was 18 out of 27 for 199 yards and a single TD with 2 picks in that game.  Missouri’s D isn’t nearly as good as the Seminoles’.  Not even close.  The Tigers allowed Arizona State QB Brock Osweiler to throw for 353 yards and 3 TDs in a 24 out of 32 performance.  What do you think Landry’s going to do to the Tigers’ sieve of a D?  To help those backing the Sooners, Oklahoma’s D is allowing only 13.5 points per game and a less than optimal (for this game at least) 323 total yards per game.  Oh, yes, this contest also takes place in Soonerland where Jones often times gives his best Tom Brady impression and the Sooner D is at times untouchable.  I’m not a fan of giving up more than 20 points in a game, but Missouri has no shot against the best team in the nation.

Pick:  Oklahoma

Week 3 College Football Free Picks

There was good and bad last week, as I went an even 2 and 2.  Stanford blew out what ended up being a -20 ½ point spread versus Duke in a big 30 point, 44 to 14 victory.  Oregon smashed over the 64 point total on their own in scoring 69 against the Nevada Wolf Pack.

Then, there was the bad.  North Carolina State lost by 7 to Wake Forest as +1 ½ dogs and…Notre Dame.  I was looking downright healthy with my under 55 wager in the ND vs. Michigan game until the Golden Domers and the “Denards” racked up 35 points in the fourth quarter.  The Wolverines took down the Domers 35 to 31 in what is surely this year’s wackiest game to date.

On to Week 3 in college football with four more top wagers!

#4 Boise State at Toledo

When:  Sept. 16 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Boise State -19 ½, Total 58 ½   

Analysis:  This is a Friday game that pits one of the best teams in college football, Boise State, against a tough squad coming off of an almost-victory over a major program on the road. Toledo almost beat Ohio State last Saturday but ended up falling 22 to 27. It was a valiant effort but it’s also one of the reasons that the Rockets are only 19 ½ point dogs to the Broncos on Sept. 16th.  Boise State throttled Toledo 57 to 14 last season. The Broncos’ D is very good, better than it showed against Georgia in Boise’s first game, and could keep Toledo to under 20 in this one. On offense, Boise State’s Kellen Moore is one of the best in the nation. Boise State had an extra week to prepare and the Ohio State loss has to be a disappointment to the Rockets. The Broncos will roll. 

Pick:  Boise State

#15 Michigan State at Notre Dame

When:  Sept. 17 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Notre Dame -4 ½, Total 51

Analysis:  So, Notre Dame implodes in two games in a row but because they’re the Golden Domers, Vegas institutes ND as a 4 ½ point favorite over a superior team? Sure, Sparty has played only Youngstown State and Florida Atlantic this season, but the MSU D has given up a total of 151 total yards. Not only that, but the trends favor State in the head-to-head as well: 7 and 0 ATS in the last 7 meetings between these two at Notre Dame, 10 and 4 ATS versus the Domers in the last 14 meetings and, get this, the road team is 9 and 1 ATS in the last 10 meetings overall. Yes, Notre Dame is a decent team, but coach Brian Kelly might have a motivation issue. I just think the Irish is like the Tin Man right now, looking for their heart, and I don’t see them finding it against Michigan State on Saturday.

Pick:  Michigan State

#1 Oklahoma at #5 Florida State

When:  Sept. 17 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Oklahoma -3, Total 54 ½  

Analysis:  I’m not sure why Florida State is ranked #5 in the nation. To me, the Seminoles are a very good team, but not a great team.  For starters, beating Louisiana-Monroe 34 to 0 and Charleston-Southern 62 to 10 just doesn’t do a whole lot for me. Oklahoma destroyed Tulsa 47 to 14 in their first game of the season, got an extra week to prepare for the Seminoles, and have the only man who can take away Stanford’s Andrew Luck’s Heisman Trophy playing for them, QB Landry Jones. Florida State’s QB, E.J. Manuel, is decent, but he isn’t Landry Jones. The best team in the nation is giving up only 3 points with one of the top two signal callers under center and a defense that might be as good as any in the nation? So yeah…I’m all over it. Oh, yes, one more piece of nugget to chew on, the Sooners manhandled Florida State 47 to 17 in last season’s contest. Jones went 30 out of 40 for 380 yards, 4 TD’s, and no picks. Sooners all the way.

Pick:  Oklahoma

#6 Stanford at Arizona

When:  Sept. 17 at 10:45 pm EST

Betting Line:  Stanford -9 ½, Total 54

Analysis:  I’m an Arizona alum, but also a realist. I don’t see how the Wildcats keep this one close. Arizona is an okay team, but they showed in their 37 to 14 loss last week against Oklahoma State that their D isn’t exactly a lock down unit. Stanford’s offense scores points at will with Luck throwing the pigskin. Not only that, but RB Stepfan Taylor is a solid runner. The Stanford D gives up an average of only 28.5 yards on the ground per game. Take away Arizona’s run and all of a sudden Bear Down QB Nick Foles, who’s already injured, could push things. The Cardinal is 4 and 1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in AZ and 6 and 2 ATS in the last 8 meetings overall. Stanford takes down my former school nasty-like on Saturday night!

Pick:  Stanford

College Football Starts TODAY!

Finally.  After what has seemed like at least two years, instead of mere months, the college football season is finally here.  That means that it’s time to dust off the against the spread skills and get to work!

Although, traditionally, the first week of the college football season pits strong teams against a very weak ones, Wisconsin takes on UNLV, for instance, there are some gems to be found this week.  My style is to look for low spreads in games, or to look for teams receiving points when they shouldn’t.  I become very uncomfortable when I have to give up anything north of 28 points in a matchup.

Below are the four best bets that I see in Week 1 in college football.

Wake Forest at Syracuse

When:  Sept. 1 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Syracuse -6 ½, Total 49 ½

Analysis:  So far, 63% of football betting handicappers are all over the ‘Cuse in this game.  I’m with them.  Coach Doug Marrone took the Orange to a bowl game after last season and the team played well, beating Kansas State.  The Orange has momentum on their side going into this season, but, more importantly, developed a stingy passing defense that allowed only 164.2 yards per game in 2010. 

I don’t mind giving up less than 7 points in the first game of this season to a Wake Forest team that was 1 and 5 against the spread on the road last season.  Wake beat Syracuse 20 to 10 to start off last year, but that was before the ‘Cuse got it going.  I like the Orange to begin this season with a victory and cover.

Pick:  Syracuse

South Florida at 16 Notre Dame

When:  Sept. 3 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Notre Dame -10, Total 47

Analysis:  The Irish should be better in their second year under Brian Kelly, but that doesn’t mean that they’re going to take apart a tough South Florida Bulls’ squad.  Notre Dame didn’t even announce who their starting QB was going to be until August 23.  The starter, Dayne Crist, was 4 and 5 at the helm last season.  Will he do better this season?  Irish fans certainly hope that he will.

South Florida has serious talent at quarterback where B.J. Daniels returns as a junior and running back where one time top high school recruit Darrell Scott will take the hand-off from Daniels.  The defense finished ranked 16th in total yards allowed last season.  Ten points is an awful lot to give up to an experienced Bulls’ squad with a good defense.  I’m certainly not going to do it.

Pick:  South Florida

7 Boise State vs 22 Georgia

When:  Sept. 3 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Boise State -3 ½, Total 50 ½

Analysis:  Yes, Kellen Moore returns at QB for Boise State, and, yes, the 5th ranked Broncos will once again be a very solid squad, but they’re going to have their hands full against a fired up Bulldogs team on Saturday.

Georgia coach Mark Richt knows that he has to produce not just a winning season at Georgia this year, but an SEC winning season.  Those are two very different things.  The Broncos are definitely the better team but they’re giving up close to 4 points on the road against a young SEC squad on that SEC squad’s home turf, essentially, since this game being played in Atlanta.  Everybody believes that it will be a down year for the SEC.  The SEC doesn’t have down years and talent, even if it’s young, can trump experience in college football any day of the week if that talent plays in the Southeastern Conference.

My brain says Boise State, my gut says Georgia.  I’ll go with Georgia to blow-up the Broncos’ magic carpet on Sept. 3.

Pick:  Georgia

3 Oregon vs 4 LSU

When:  Sept. 3 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Oregon -1, Total 55

Analysis:  I really, truly, do not understand the betting line in this game.  Oregon couldn’t get their offense going against one of the worst SEC defenses in the BCS Championship last season, Auburn’s, and now they take on arguably one of the best defenses in all of college football on Saturday.

Sure, the Ducks return some fantastic players on offense, including QB Derron Thomas and RB LaMichael James, but that LSU D could be something else.  Think last year’s TCU defense and you get the idea.

On offense, the Tigers will be without QB Jordan Jefferson and WR Russell Shepard, both have been suspended indefinitely, but Oregon has a suspect front seven.  The big LSU offensive line could control the clock and pound away at that Oregon defense.  I like LSU in this game and I like them to possibly win by at least 6 points.

Pick:  LSU

College Football Week 2: Best Bets

It wasn’t a bad start to the real betting season, the football betting season.  Syracuse needed overtime to cover, but cover they did, South Florida did a number on Notre Dame, and LSU pounded Oregon.

The only loss out of my Top 4 picks last week was Georgia who just doesn’t have the experience to deal with a team of Boise State’s caliber.  If you follow my tweets @dssportsbets, you would have scored with Maryland this past Monday night as well.

On to Week 2 in college football with four more top wagers!

#6 Stanford at Duke

When:  Sept. 10 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Stanford -21, Total 58 ½  

Analysis:  Stanford beat San Jose State 57 to 3 to cover the -30 point spread.  The Cardinal is only favored by 21 points over Duke…who blows.  The Blue Devils lost to Richmond 21 to 23 as -11 point favorites in their first game of the season.  Stanford QB Andrew Luck should pad his stats, and take another step forward to the Heisman Trophy, on Saturday.  Unless this game takes place on the set of Jeopardy, the Blue Devils have no shot.  Stanford rolls big time.

Pick:  Stanford

Nevada at #13 Oregon

When:  Sept. 10 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  Oregon -26 ½, Total 62 ½

Analysis:  I can forgive the Ducks for scoring only 27 points versus what could be considered one of the best defenses in the history of college football.  And, let’s be clear, the Ducks will not have the same turnover issues against Nevada up in Oregon that they did against LSU in Texas.  Saturday is Nevada’s first game of the season.  Nevada runs a spread offense and usually puts up a ton of points.  They did last season and they face an Oregon D that still has some work to do before being solid enough to keep Nevada from scoring at least 21 to 28 in this game.  Throw in a good 40 to 50 for the angry Ducks and suddenly the bet in this game becomes the over.

Pick:  Over 62 ½

18 Notre Dame at Michigan

When:  Sept. 10 at 8:00 pm EST

Betting Line:  Michigan -3 ½, Total 55

Analysis:  There are actually two decent bets in this game.  The first is under the total of 55.  Notre Dame had some miscues early on against South Florida accounting for 16 of the 23 points that they gave up to the Bulls last week.  Against Michigan, the Notre Dame D, which is a decent group of players, should be much more effective…provided that their offense doesn’t screw things up.  Michigan looked good on offense last week, but unless they unleash Denard Robinson, they’re not going to be nearly effective against the Golden Domers on “O” as they were against Central Michigan.  Eventually, DR could turn into a pocket passer, but that’s later down the road.  Unleash the dude, Coach Hoke! 

Notre Dame lost 24 to 28 to Michigan last season.  I don’t anticipate that happening this season.  Brian Kelly will build a team in South Bend.  Michigan is giving up over a field goal to the Domers.  Notre Dame to the under looks like a solid parlay to me.

Pick:  Notre Dame to under 55

North Carolina State at Wake Forest

When:  Sept. 10 at 3:30 pm EST

Betting Line:  NC State -2 ½, Total 49

Analysis:  NC State beat Wake 38 to 3 last season.  They won’t be that dominant this season but they should be able to cover a 2 ½ point spread.  QB Mike Glennon didn’t look very good when passing for only 156 yards and a single TD against Liberty in the Wolfpack’s 43 to 21 victory, but Curtis Underwood Jr. had 114 yards and a TD on only 14 carries.  That’s an 8 yard per carry average.  Wake’s D gave up 121 yards on the ground to Syracuse last week.  NC State could pound the ball, wear down Wake’s front seven, and then score at least a TD victory in this game.  The Wolfpack is the pick.

Pick:  North Carolina State
 

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